The middle class is mainly characterized by stability, comfort, and a particular level of affluence. Most people in this income bracket can afford a home, own a car, go on a family vacation, and send their kids to college.
However, while the middle class can afford most items, some things and experiences are still beyond the reach of the average American middle-class household.
Here are 12 things the middle-class Americans never buy.
High-End Artwork
Middle-class Americans can’t afford high-end artwork, a typical reserve for the affluent. Famous artist masterpieces range between thousands of dollars and hundreds of millions at an auction, making them unaffordable for the average middle-class household.
The rich buy and invest in art to maintain history, celebrate culture, or as a valuable collectible that they can later sell. Although the middle class may admire art, they will likely purchase prints or visit museums to view these pieces.
Bespoke Tailored Pieces
While middle-class households occasionally take their clothes to the tailors for alterations, they are more likely to purchase clothes from regular retailers. Custom-tailored clothing is often out of reach and only enjoyed by the wealthy, who prefer bespoke garments that fit perfectly.
Fine, High-End Wine
Most middle-class people can afford to buy wine from mainstream producers or local vineyards. However, they do not buy fine wine collections, as this is considered a luxury reserved for the elite, who prefer to build a collection of rare and vintage wines.
Customized Tech Gadgets
Middle-class Americans will comfortably buy expensive smartphones but won’t buy customized tech gadgets like gold-encased phones or diamond-studded headphones. These extras are costly due to the material used and bespoke design, which is rare.
Designer Handbags or Clothing
Although middle-class Americans may sometimes splurge on expensive bags and clothes, investing in high-end designer clothes from brands like Prada, Gucci, and Hermes is considered an extravagance and reserved for the rich. Middle-class individuals are likely to choose more affordable options.
Exotic Cars
Owning an exotic car is a dream for most car enthusiasts, but it is often unaffordable and impractical for the middle class. Auto brands like Bugatti and Ferrari are known for their premium prices, including maintenance, fuel, and insurance costs.
First Editions and Historic Manuscripts
Middle-class Americans would instead purchase ordinary books rather than first editions or original manuscripts of popular books. The rich consider original manuscripts and first editions rare collectibles and cultural heritage pieces. That connects them to the past. However, for those in the middle-class range, regular books are affordable.
Luxury Yachts and Private Jets
Private jets and luxury yachts are opulent statements that are out of reach for middle-class Americans. While the middle class might afford to rent a boat or take a business-class flight, they can’t afford private jets or luxury yachts.
Expensive Home Automation Systems
Middle-class Americans will likely opt for more user-friendly and affordable home automation systems. The rich are not afraid to splurge on high-end systems that control security, light, temperature, entertainment, and other aspects of home life to enhance convenience and comfort.
High-End Jewelry
Although middle-class Americans buy jewelry for special occasions like engagements, weddings, or anniversaries, they won’t splurge on expensive pieces from luxury brands. They’ll opt for more affordable, quality options.
Private Club Memberships
Most private clubs offer a place for members to network and socialize. However, most middle-class Americans need help paying the membership fee and other expenses to ensure exclusivity. These costs are prohibitive and often out of reach.
Brand Cookware
Most middle-class households never buy fine dining cookware from brands like Staub, Le Creuset, or All-Clad. While these renowned brands offer quality and durable pieces, their high-price tags make them unaffordable for middle-class Americans, who opt for more affordable cookware.
The average middle-class American can afford a comfortable lifestyle, but many items and experiences are still out of reach. Although they may admire and wish to buy private jets, exotic cars, or luxury travel experiences, most would opt for more affordable and practical options.
