Signs You’re Middle Class

1. You have a college degree or higher.

Image source/ ManchesterUniversityHaving a college degree or higher is often seen as a sign that you are middle class. Higher education typically leads to higher-paying jobs, which can help you afford a comfortable lifestyle. In addition, having a college degree often signifies that you have a certain level of social and cultural capital, which can be an indicator of your socioeconomic status.

2. You Only Shop At The 'Fancy' Food Stores

Image Source / WanderWisdomThe thing is, this is also going to come naturally to you. You don't do it to make a point, you do it because you can comfortably afford it and you can't imagine doing any different. Why would you go to a cheaper grocery store when you simply don't need to?

3. And You Don't Even Know What The Cheaper Ones Are Called

Image Source / Camborne TownNot only do you never shop at any food store that isn't classed as fancy, you don't even know that other options exist. You might have no idea what the names of the cheaper food stores are, because you've never needed to know - and you don't want to know.

4. And You Probably Get Your Food Delivered, Too

Image Source / WikipediaAnd not only do you choose to shop at the fancier grocery stores, you don't have time to go food shopping yourself - or, you just have the luxury of not having to, because you'll readily pay for the extra delivery cost without having to worry about saving that extra bit of money.

5. You have a certain level of social and cultural capital.

Image source/ experiencelondonIn addition to financial security, being middle class often means having a certain level of social and cultural capital. This can include things like having connections and networks, being involved in your community, and having access to cultural experiences and activities. This indicates that you have a certain level of social and cultural awareness, and that you are able to participate in a variety of experiences and activities.

6. You own your own home.

Image source/ rightmoveOwning a home is often seen as a sign of financial stability and can be an indicator that you are middle class. This is because owning a home typically requires a certain level of income and savings, which can be a sign of financial security. It also indicates that you have a certain level of stability and commitment to your community.

7. You have a retirement savings plan.

Image source/ PinterestAnother sign that you may be middle class is if you have a retirement savings plan in place. This shows that you are able to save a portion of your income for the future, and that you are thinking ahead about your financial security. It also indicates that you are able to plan for the long-term, and that you are committed to ensuring your financial well-being in the future.

8. You have a budget and stick to it.

Image source/ PinterestBeing able to manage your finances effectively is another sign that you may be middle class. This includes having a budget in place and sticking to it, which can help you make the most of your income and avoid overspending. It shows that you are able to plan for your future and make smart financial decisions.

9. You have some savings for emergencies.

Image source/ futuretreeHaving some savings set aside for emergencies is another sign that you may be middle class. This shows that you have some financial cushion to fall back on in case of unforeseen expenses or income loss. It indicates that you are able to plan for the unexpected, and that you have a certain level of financial stability.

10. You have access to healthcare.

Image source/ blogspotHaving access to quality healthcare is another important factor in determining one's socio-economic status. If you have access to healthcare, either through your employer or through government programs, it can be a sign that you are considered middle class. This shows that you are able to afford the healthcare you need, and that you are able to prioritize your physical and mental well-being.

11. You have a good credit score.

Image source/ creditcheckscoreHaving a good credit score is another sign that you may be middle class. This indicates that you are able to manage your finances effectively and pay your bills on time. A good credit score can also make it easier to access credit and loans, which can be useful for making major purchases or investments.

12. You have a diverse range of investments.

Image source/ digiworksiHaving a diverse range of investments is another indicator of being middle class. This shows that you are able to plan for the future and are willing to take some financial risks in order to potentially earn higher returns. It also indicates that you are financially savvy and are able to make informed decisions about your investments.

13. You are able to take occasional vacations.

Image source/ ThomasCookBeing able to take occasional vacations is another sign that you may be middle class. This indicates that you have some disposable income and are able to afford leisure activities. It can also be a sign that you have a good work-life balance and are able to take time for yourself and your family.

14. You have a professional network.

Image source/ picsreelHaving a professional network is another indicator of being middle class. This shows that you are connected to others in your field or industry, and that you have access to a variety of resources and opportunities. It can also indicate that you are proactive and are willing to invest in your professional development.

15. You are involved in your community.

Image source/ MetroBeing involved in your community is another sign that you may be middle class. This can include things like volunteering, participating in local events, or supporting local businesses. It shows that you are engaged with your community and are committed to making a positive impact.

16. You have access to cultural experiences and activities.

Image source/ TelegraphHaving access to cultural experiences and activities is another sign that you may be middle class. This can include things like attending concerts, visiting museums, or traveling. It indicates that you have a certain level of disposable income and are able to participate in a variety of experiences and activities.

17. You have access to quality education for your children.

Image source/ educationspotIf you have access to quality education for your children, it can be a sign that you are middle class. This indicates that you are able to afford the education you believe is best for your children, and that you are willing to invest in their future. It can also be a sign that you value education and are committed to providing your children with the best possible opportunities.

18. You have some discretionary income for hobbies and leisure activities.

Image source/ sportsbalanceHaving some discretionary income for hobbies and leisure activities is another sign that you may be middle class. This shows that you have some disposable income and are able to afford things that are not strictly necessary but that bring you joy or fulfilment. It indicates that you are able to prioritize your well-being and enjoyment.

19. You are able to save for your children's future education.

Image source/ IncBeing able to save for your children's future education is another sign that you may be middle class. This indicates that you are able to plan ahead and are willing to invest in your children's future. It can also be a sign that you are committed to providing your children with the best possible opportunities and support.

20. You have a comfortable retirement plan in place.

Image source/ hyggerHaving a comfortable retirement plan in place is another sign that you may be middle class. This indicates that you are able to plan for the future and are committed to ensuring your financial well-being in retirement. It can also be a sign that you are financially savvy and are able to make informed decisions about your retirement savings.

21. You are able to invest in your own professional development.

Image source/ etsyBeing able to invest in your own professional development is another sign that you may be middle class. This can include things like attending conferences, taking courses, or networking with others in your field. It indicates that you are proactive and are willing to invest in your own skills and knowledge in order to advance in your career.

22. You have insurance for your home, car, and health.

Image source/ familyteamsHaving insurance for your home, car, and health is another sign that you may be middle class. This indicates that you are able to afford these types of insurance and that you are willing to invest in protecting your assets and your well-being. It can also be a sign that you are financially savvy and are able to make informed decisions about your insurance needs.

23. You have a stable work-life balance.

Image source/ thatsocialhubHaving a stable work-life balance is another sign that you may be middle class. This indicates that you are able to manage your time and prioritize both your work and your personal life. It can also be a sign that you are able to maintain a healthy and fulfilling lifestyle, which is important for your overall well-being.

25. You are able to afford quality healthcare for your family.

Image source/ twinklIf you are able to afford quality healthcare for your family, it can be a sign that you are middle class. This indicates that you are able to prioritize your family's physical and mental well-being, and that you are willing to invest in their healthcare needs. It can also be a sign that you have a certain level of financial stability and security.

26. You are able to support your extended family financially, if needed.

Image source/ PinterestBeing able to support your extended family financially, if needed, is another sign that you may be middle class. This indicates that you have some financial cushion to fall back on and are able to provide support to your family members in times of need. It can also be a sign of generosity and family commitment.

27. You are able to give to charities and causes you care about.

Image source/ PinterestBeing able to give to charities and causes you care about is another sign that you may be middle class. This indicates that you have some disposable income and are willing to use it to support causes that are important to you. It can also be a sign of generosity and a commitment to making a positive impact in your community.

28. You have a support system of friends and family.

Image source/ wellmindHaving a support system of friends and family is another sign that you may be middle class. This indicates that you have a network of people who are there to support you and provide you with emotional and practical assistance. It can also be a sign of strong relationships and a sense of community.

29. You have a healthy work-life balance.

Image source/ PinterestHaving a healthy work-life balance is another sign that you may be middle class. This indicates that you are able to manage your time and prioritize both your work and your personal life in a way that is sustainable and fulfilling. It can also be a sign of good mental and physical health, as maintaining a healthy balance between work and leisure can help reduce stress and improve overall well-being.

30. You have the ability to plan for the future.

Image source/ walkinloveHaving the ability to plan for the future is another sign that you may be middle class. This indicates that you are able to think ahead and make decisions that will help ensure your financial and personal well-being in the future. It can also be a sign of responsibility and a commitment to your own success and happiness.

31. You Own Your Own Car

Image Source / Auto TraderAnd we mean a good car you can depend on. Not some $500 run around you found at a dodgy garage. Once again, owning a car is a distant dream for many people who simply don't have enough money to buy it, let alone the cost of its upkeep. So owning a car can be a luxury for a lot of people - where it might be a normality for you.

32. You Go On At Least One Big Family Vacation A Year

Image Source / YouTubeFor some families, a vacation during the year is simply not affordable. For the middle-class, it's a year wasted if you haven't been on at least one family vacation. You never have to worry about being able to afford the family trip - it's just a given, and one easily paid for.

33. You Have A Huge Travel Bucket List

Image Source / YouTubeIf you don't have that much disposable income and don't have a stable job, it's very unlikely you're going to be making huge bucket list plans - especially when it comes to travel. If you have a huge 'I want to travel the world' bucket list, it's a sign that it's because you know you can comfortably afford it.

34. And You've Already Ticked So Much Off Of It

Image Source / Bored PandaAnd, if you're actually making your way through the travel list at an impressive rate, it just shows you're actually making that stable money, able to comfortably spend it and living your best work-balance life without having to worry about paying the bills whilst traveling the world!

35. You Always Have Disposable Income

Image Source / WikipediaAside from spending money on family vacations, there's also never a time when you don't have disposable income. It's just always there. You never really worry about paying for anything at all, including bills and spending money. Disposable income every month is a given.

36. And You Usually Have A Lot Of Spending Money On Vacations, Too

Image Source / Wikimedia CommonsIt's one thing to be able to comfortably pay for the vacation bill in terms of flights and accommodation - but the next worry for a lot of people can be having that extra money spare to actually spend during the vacation. But for you, that extra spends is never a problem.

37. You Can Afford To Buy Your Kids Their First Car

Image Source / WikipediaFor some kids, the idea of being bought their own car for the first time is an impossibility because their parents just don't have the cash. For middle class people, it's likely that kids will be bought their first car from their parents. That doesn't mean a flashy, expensive car - it could be a cheaper run around, but it's still likely their parents can provide that for them.

38. You have a stable job.

Image source/ manifestodigitalHaving a stable job is another important factor in determining one's socio-economic status. If you have a job that provides you with a steady income, chances are you are considered middle class. This stability allows you to have a certain level of financial security, which can help you afford a comfortable lifestyle. It also indicates that you have a certain level of job security, which can provide peace of mind.

39. You can afford a comfortable lifestyle.

Image source/ PinterestOne of the key indicators of being middle class is the ability to afford a comfortable lifestyle. This includes being able to afford necessities such as housing, food, and healthcare, as well as having some disposable income for leisure activities and savings. If you are able to afford these things, you are likely considered middle class. This means that you have a certain level of financial stability and security.

40. You are not wealthy, but you are not struggling financially.

Image source/ MediumAnother key aspect of being middle class is having a certain level of financial security. This means that you are not struggling to make ends meet, but you are also not considered wealthy. You may have some savings and investments, but you are not living a lavish lifestyle. This shows that you have a balanced approach to your finances, and that you are able to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without overspending.

41. Your Food All Has Fancy Names, Too

Image Source / WikipediaYou have no idea what the common food names are for budget brands, because you've never had to think about it. All the food you get is going to be the best of the best in terms of names, and we're talking avocado spread or obscure fruits and vegetables, of course.

42. And It's Probably All Organic

Image Source / WikipediaYou take great care, effort and money to shop for only organic foods - and why wouldn't you if you have the money to do so? You've never had to buy cheap and nasty foods just to get by because you've had enough money and time to source the best and healthiest organic foods for your weekly grocery list.

43. If You're Into Sports, They Aren't The Common Ones

Image Source / WikipediaYou wouldn't dream of attending a football match like every other person you know. If you do like sports, it has to be sports classed as more 'upper class' or just those that are a little more niche. We're talking anything to do with dressed up horses, or something like volleyball as opposed to football.

44. You Have A Lot Of Kitchen Appliances

Image Source / WikipediaBeing middle class can very much be reflected in not only the amount of appliances you have around your (probably large) kitchen, but also the brand name they are. If you look around your kitchen and find that you have a top-brand fridge, and an appliance for every single cooking need, it's a big sign.

45. The Words You Use Aren't Particularly 'Common'

Image Source / Wikimedia CommonsYour vocabulary is very extensive, and you might avoid the very common, base swear words to get a bit more creative with how you describe things or how you show your anger. You're also more likely to use words like 'thus' or 'whom' and every other word in the thesaurus when a simple word just won't do.

46. You Don't Compromise On Good Coffee

Image Source / WikipediaIf your home coffee isn't made in a cafetiere, you don't want it. If you don't know a coffee place that makes your coffee using a cafetiere, you're not going to be found in there. The way you brew your coffee says a lot about your class and status, even if many people don't think it does! But you know... instant Nescafe versus one of the most expensive coffee machines is a bit of an insight into your financial and social status. Just sayin'.

47. You Never Shop At Discount Stores

Image Source / WikipediaFor a lot of people, discount stores are a god send when you need new stuff but don't want to pay a high price tag for it. It can also be the only place to shop. But for you, you don't shop at discount stores because you'd rather pay for higher quality at top market places - as well as having enough money to do so.

48. You Have Help Around The Home

Image Source / WikipediaThere's a high chance you have at least one staff member to help at home. You might only have a cleaner that pops around every now and again, but maybe you have a little extra help too, like a cleaner and also a nanny for the kids. These are luxuries you can afford.

49. You're Always Going To Farmer's Markets

Image Source / WikipediaThis is, of course, if your posh grocery store delivery isn't going to turn up this week. You make time for farmer's markets so that you can grab the very latest organic and expensive produce to fill up your huge top-brand fridge at home.

50. Your Living Situation Has Probably Never Changed

Image Source / WikipediaIt's likely that you grew up in a good area in good circumstances, then bought a house in the same area and have never had need to relocate or move. You've set up shop in a secure home and area and this has always been consistent for you, without having to worry about how to pay bills, cheaper areas or housing prices fluctuating.

51. You Know Which Avocados To Buy

Image source / Love One TodayNot that many years ago, people were unsure exactly what an avocado was, fruit or veg?  Did you peel it, chop it or what?  This has never been the case for the middle class.  It has been part of their diet for a long time and they can spot a ripe one without even touching it!

52. And You'll Know Exactly How To Prepare Them

Image source / A VogelThat's an easy one for those used to avocados from an early age.  Sliced in a salad or with tacos, with a few drops of balsamic and a sprinkling of seeds or smashed and spread on sourdough, accompanied by organic scrambled eggs.

53. You Wouldn't Dream Of Buying Supermarket Own Brand Crisps

Image source QuoraShudder the thought of Sainsbury's ready salted - no way!  For those who abide by a certain standard, it has to be Tyrell's Hand Cooked Crisps or Walkers, at the worst but only if you're desperate for a crunchy snack.  Own brand crisps are not something you're likely to find in a middle class household.

54. Only The Softest Toilet Paper Will Do

Image source / IGAAll bums deserve soft toilet tissue but most families purchase economy or recycled paper tissue as it is quite expensive, especially if there's a family of 4 or more using it.  Those with a middle class background wouldn't put themselves through the trauma of anything less than the best for their butts.

55. You Really Want A Bidet

Image source / Reader's DigestWhile many online shoppers search Amazon for household items and clothing, it's not unusual for the 'well off' to check out bidets on a comparison website.  In their eyes, for hygiene purposes, no bathroom is complete without one.

56.  Your Budget Drink Is Still Classy

Image source / PJMCDTimes are hard at the moment for many and shopping habits have changed, to juggle the purse strings.  Instead of drinking at the pub, some choose to have a tipple at home, to save money.  Even the middle class have noticed the downturn in the economy and they have made sacrifices - Waitrose own brand of vodka (but don't tell anyone).

57. You'll Buy Anything That Saves Your Precious Time

Image source / EvilNinjaPilWe've all been a sucker for a gadget, over the years.  Toasted sandwich makers, ice cream makers, bread makers, waffle makers and so many other 'makers.'  A necessity, though, for those who can afford it, is a bagel slicer.  It could save up to 3 seconds compared to using a bread knife.

58. Even The Spiralizer

Image source / YouTubeBeing creative and healthy in the kitchen doesn't stop at cooking in an air fryer.  It's trendy, if you can be bothered, to spiralize vegetables, to use instead of pasta.  The majority of us may do this a few times but it's quite middle class to spiralize everything in sight (except the newspaper)!

59. When Mary Berry Left 'Bake Off' It was A Dark Day

Image source / Eater'Great British Bake Off' has always been a much loved and popular show.  For individuals of a certain status, they identified with Mary Berry and her etiquette'.  When Mary left the programme, these fans almost suffered panic attacks and worried the tone of the show would drop.

60. You Can Resonate With This Newspaper Headline

Image source Gabby HinsliffWho doesn't love a Greggs sausage roll or cheese and onion pasty?  The nation adores this bakery, except a minority who have never ventured inside as it's too unhealthy and it's not called Waitrose. They need to get a life as they don't know what they're missing!

61. Everything In Waitrose Is Essential In Your Eyes

Image source / CameronTheGingeThe middle class saying of 'It's Waitrose way or the highway' attracts nod all the way.  The prices may be higher but it's all about the quality, darling, and the like-minded customers it attracts.  Even the carrier bags look smarter.

62. Wine Has To Be The Correct Temperature

Image source / Anna StreeterIf you are in a financial situation where you can be a wine connoisseur , you will know it's not all about the taste - it's also about the temperature.  A bottle of Merlot can be totally ruined unless it is served and drunk at exactly the right temperature. Two degrees over or under would ruin the drinking experience.

63. Quinoa Is Serious

Image source / FreepikYes, it's quinoa all the way for some.  Why stick to long grain packet rise (2 mins in the microwave) when you can be more upper class with the nutty grain that few can pronounce correctly.  Quinoa porridge is popular (so they tell me) but Ready Brek might slide down easier.

64. And It MUST Be Pronounced Correctly

Image source / Chris GowerWhy do so many people struggle with pronouncing quinoa (keen-wah)?  Maybe because it's difficult to work out and they hardy ever eat it, only by mistake in a restaurant.  It sounds like it could be the middle name of a middle class female!

65. You Approve Of This Grafitti

Image source / NicolathGraffiti is so course and unsavoury, letting down a whole neighbourhood, particularly those in Council Tax brackets Band E and over.  The wording lowers the tone of the street .......unless it's an upmarket spray painted message such as 'pesto'.

66. Your Autocorrect Knows You So Well

Image source / Elfi KawaiiThere's nothing worse than when you're texting and the autocorrect feature amends the word when you didn't want it to.  I once typed the word 'maniac' and it got changed to 'mankini'.  Middle class texters are more than pleased with their alteration, as shown above!

67. You Lose It Completely When You Read This

Image source / CathGrayI mean, what is the world coming to when you can't even purchase your usual go-to snack?  No, not pork scratchings but chocolate covered popping popcorn with a hint of pretzel.  How do ordinary, working class people manage without it?

68. When You're Not Sure Which iPhone To Purchase

Image source / MichaelTMcCleanThe choice of Apple products is growing rapidly and there are so many choices of iPhones and electronic devices to select from that the only way to choose one is to buy several.  Once you've decided, you get your daily house help to send the others back. How the other half live!

69. When The Substitution Doesn't Reflect Your Status

Image source BakerBoyOnline ordering and delivery from your supermarket saves so much time and hassle and means you can watch an extra two episodes of 'Real Housewives.'  The message this customer received did not reflect their middle class status one bit.

70. It's Not Easy Being Middle Class

Image source RayOfLightBeing middle class is a gift, so middle class people say!  They feel they are role models to encourage working class people to do better for themselves and become eligible for gold and platinum credit cards.  They even have different birds flying round the area they live in!

71. You Pretend To Be Rich

Image source Head For PointsThe middle class have a fascination with the rich, mostly because they aspire to move up in their own rankings. They feel that if they look the part, they will feel richer and be treated differently.  If they don't have the cash for this persona, there's always a bit of plastic to help them on their way..

72. You Thought Your Childhood Was Poor

Image source Meriam-WebsterWhen you think back to your childhood, hopefully they are mainly good memories.  To a middle class person, they might feel they suffered, in that they were poor, because they only had 3 out of the 4 Tweenies or they had to have a joint birthday party with a friend.  Hard times, if only!

73. You Had Higher Hopes For Yourself

Image source / The GuardianWe know time is passing quickly and by this point in your journey you may wish you had more of it figured out. You always considered yourself to be a high achiever but somewhere along the line you lost your 'umph' and fell into a routine.  You still ended up as a middle class citizen but felt it could have been so much better.  You tell your kids never to fall into the same trap.

74. You Want Your Children To Follow A Good Career Path

Image source / PinterestBecause you are well educated yourself and have excelled throughout your life, being happy and, more importantly, being financially stable, you want the same for your kids so it's imperative, in your mind, that they should become a doctor, dentist or successful YouTuber!

75. You Have Lots Of Monthly Subscriptions

Image source DeliHouseI think we are all a bit guilty of not knowing exactly how many direct debits come out of our account, if there are loads.  A middle class adult is likely to have a quantity of subscriptions debited every month for food boxes, wines etc.  Without these, their lives would feel so much emptier.

76. Weekly Blow Dry Is A Must

Image source BlissSpaEveryone feels good when they've paid a visit to the hairdresser.  In fact they hope they will bump into a friend and be flouted in compliments about their shiny mane.  If you can afford it, a weekly visit to have your hair washed and blow dried, becomes the norm.  You NEED to look your best at all times.

77.  You Won't Give 'Good Stuff' To Charity

Image source / DressToImpressA tidy wardrobe is a tidy mind - it's not a real saying but it does ring true.  Giving your unwanted items to charity and making room for some new purchases, is pretty routine .... but what happens to your designer jacket and boots that have become outdated (they are almost a year old).  You feel, as an independent financially secure person, they are too good for charity so you take them to an agency to sell on your behalf.

78. You're a Lady Who Lunches

Image source TasteBudsWith no need to work and getting bored of watching 'Loose Women' as you don't relate to them, nothing for it but to meet up with friends for lunch/afternoon tea.  You see it as therapy as you can air all your problems about a pile of ironing needing doing as the hired help didn't turn up.

79. You Wouldn't Step Foot In Aldi

Image source Retail WeekAldi have some great buys and it's difficult to tell the difference between some of their products and those of a major supermarket.  You secretly want to browse the store but don't want to be spotted so, when a friend mentions they are going, you casually ask them to pick you up a few things.

80. It Matters What Your Friends Think Of You

Image source / The CourtyardJust because you are middle class and not financially embarrassed, it doesn't necessarily mean you are the most confident of people.  You still seek reassurance from friends and if they say something slightly negative to you, you will mull over it for days, before you pack for your mini break to Tuscany.