Determining whether you qualify as upper-middle class can be challenging, as income levels vary by location and lifestyle factors. However, a key indicator is your minimum salary range, which defines your financial standing within the middle-class spectrum.
What Is the Minimum Salary for Upper-Middle Class?
To be considered part of the upper-middle class, your income should fall between $106,092 and $149,160, depending on where you live.
“For instance, someone qualifying for the Affordable Housing Program in San Francisco would need to earn $104,000 or less,” said Sarah Maitre, a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) and financial planner at Camriel Advisors. “However, that same salary in a rural area a few hours from San Francisco would place someone in the upper-middle class.”
Although defining a minimum salary for this group is complex, Maitre explains that lifestyle factors provide useful indicators.
“With my clients, I define upper-middle class as the ability to afford a comfortable home, own reliable cars, provide childcare for all children (or allow one spouse not to work), and take at least one vacation annually—all without compromising long-term financial goals like college savings and retirement planning,” she said.
In contrast, those in the middle class often experience tighter financial constraints.
“I define middle class as having the ability to afford most of these things, though often with some financial stress,” she added. “You’re not living paycheck to paycheck, but you carefully manage spending—perhaps choosing a Kia over a Tesla.”
If you’re in the middle class but aspire to move up the income ladder, there are strategies to help achieve this financial goal.
How to Move From Middle Class to Upper-Middle Class
Increase Your Household Income
Boosting income is one of the most effective ways to reach the minimum salary required for upper-middle class status.
“Income adjustments are often challenging but have a greater impact on financial mobility,” Maitre said. “This could involve asking for a raise, switching to a higher-paying job, taking on a second job, or starting a side hustle like an Etsy shop or food delivery gig.”
However, increasing income often requires sacrificing time and work-life balance, so it’s important to weigh the trade-offs.
Cut Back on Unnecessary Expenses
Analyzing your spending habits can also help in achieving a higher financial status.
“Reducing discretionary spending is crucial,” Maitre said. “While cutting out a $6 daily latte is a start, larger savings can come from canceling subscriptions and eating out less frequently.”
Be Strategic When Buying a Home
Rushing to purchase a home before you’re financially prepared could hinder your progress toward upper-middle class stability.
“Be patient and consider renting to avoid overspending on a house,” said Brian Blakeman, financial advisor at Onward Financial Advising LLC. “Instead, focus on building cash reserves and investing in retirement accounts or non-real estate assets.”
Use Credit Wisely
Responsible credit card use is essential for maintaining financial growth.
“There’s nothing wrong with using a credit card—as long as you pay your bill in full each month,” Blakeman said. “Track your income and expenses for at least six weeks to ensure you’re not relying on savings to cover credit card debt.”
Make the Most of Extra Cash
If you receive a bonus, gift, or salary increase, resist the urge to spend it impulsively.
“Have a plan for unexpected income,” Blakeman advised. “By allocating extra cash strategically, you can work toward long-term financial goals and secure your place in the upper-middle class.”
While spending extra income on immediate pleasures may be tempting, making smart financial choices now can set you up for lasting success in the upper-middle class bracket.
