THE MODERN MIDDLE CLASS IS LIVING THROUGH A PURCHASING-POWER COLLAPSE.
2000: A $250,000 household income meant actual financial freedom.
2026: Preschool in a major metro is $3,000–$4,000 A MONTH. Per child.
That’s an entire salary gone before taxes. Not vacations or luxury. CHILDCARE.
Even basic living is unaffordable without real wealth now.
The paycheck didn’t shrink on paper. IT JUST STOPPED BUYING A LIFE.