Economic disparities highlight rising costs for middle class and poverty levels

Economic disparities continue to define the gap between middle-class stability and the struggles of those living in poverty. In the United States, approximately 37.9 million people live below the poverty line, facing significant barriers to accessing essentials such as healthcare, nutritious food, stable housing, and reliable transportation.

In New Jersey, the cost of living significantly impacts income classifications. According to Pew Research Center criteria, a household in New Jersey must earn at least $69,529 annually to be considered middle class. To reach the upper-middle-class bracket, annual household income must range between $162,235 and $208,588. New Jersey currently ranks second in the nation for the income required to qualify as middle class, trailing only Massachusetts.