Hitting your thirties often brings a wave of big questions: career trajectory, homeownership, even that fancy blender. But one question frequently arises – and it revolves around money: how do your finances stack up compared to others? Specifically, what does it take to be considered “upper class” in your 30s?
The answer hinges on net worth. It’s the value of assets (like homes, investments, retirement savings) minus any debts you hold. Financial expert Michael Foguth, founder and president of Foguth Financial Group, explains that reaching upper-class status in your 30s generally requires a net worth between $500,000 to $750,000.
This range significantly surpasses the national median net worth for people in their thirties, which hovers closer to $150,000 or less.
But it’s more than just reaching a number. For Foguth, true upper-class status isn’t solely about accumulating wealth; it’s about how that wealth is managed. Individuals in this category prioritize investing over impulsive spending, keep housing costs relatively modest compared to their income, and proactively protect their assets through insurance and estate planning.
“They aren’t focused on appearing wealthy,” Foguth says. “Their goal is financial longevity and growth.”
While reaching upper-class status might seem daunting, there are key habits for those seeking solid middle-class security. Living below your means, automatically saving, and tackling high-interest debt become crucial in this decade marked by major expenses like housing, childcare, and student loans.
Foguth emphasizes, “Upper class isn’t about today’s earnings; it’s about the financial resilience you build for tomorrow.”
