The upper middle class is now the largest income group in the U.S.

CBS News
April 6, 2026
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2 min read

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The Bottom Line

The upper middle class is now the largest income group in the U.S. as the traditional middle class shrinks.

How This Affects You

This shift indicates a growing segment of the population is achieving higher economic status, potentially altering economic stratification and wealth distribution.

AI Summary

New research indicates that the upper middle class has become the largest income group in the United States. This shift is occurring as America's traditional middle class is shrinking, primarily because more households are moving up the economic ladder. The development suggests a significant change in the distribution of wealth and income across the nation. This trend implies a growing segment of the population is achieving higher economic status.

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