I don't think that's anyone's typical definition of the middle class. It usually refers to work autonomy and relying on expertise to sustain yourself (as opposed to menial labor).
Merely having liquid capital to begin with (i.e. not tied up in your primary residence or retirement vehicles) almost certainly puts you on the higher end of the middle class.
I don't think re-defining "middle class" to mean the top 10% (or less) of earners is helpful.
Merely having liquid capital to begin with (i.e. not tied up in your primary residence or retirement vehicles) almost certainly puts you on the higher end of the middle class.
I don't think re-defining "middle class" to mean the top 10% (or less) of earners is helpful.