What It Takes to Be Middle Class: More Wealth [Video]

New research from Claire Tassin, a retail and e-commerce analyst at business intelligence company Morning Consult, found that middle-income consumers’ behavior is more similar to their lower-income counterparts than more affluent Americans.

“As shoppers are still battling heightened prices and inflationary pressure, middle-income consumer sentiment tracks much closer to lower income,” Tassin said. “Rather than mirroring the top bracket, they’re mirroring the lower bracket.”

Tassin analyzedconsumer behavior among Americans making under $50,000, those making between $50,000 and $100,000 — what Morning Consult deems middle-income — and those making over $100,000. While middle-income consumers might prioritize the same financial goals or beliefs as their higher-earning counterparts — like believing that planning for the future is important — they’re spending and living …