You Value Credentials Over Income

Studies show that the middle and upper classes value somebody’s credentials more than the money they earn. For example, if a handyman made $70,000 in a year, he or she made enough to be considered “middle class”, despite being a “working class” job.

On the contrary, somebody with a Ph.D. may struggle to pay his or her bills after making $30,000 in that same year, but still be considered “middle class.” This is because of the high level of education required to earn the distinction.