Pretty similar to other countries
BY HOWARD YU
Upper Class, Middle Class, and Lower Class in Mexico and the United States
The distribution of the upper class in Mexico is a topic of significant interest, both academically and for the general public. This analysis identifies the states with the highest concentration of upper-class individuals. Mexico City, Nuevo León, and Aguascalientes lead the way, with 11% of their populations classified as upper class. This concentration highlights economic opportunities and challenges in these regions.
The AMAI NSE 8x7 methodology, developed by the Mexican Association of Market Research Agencies, classifies households based on income, education level, occupation, and access to goods and services. This provides a comprehensive framework for understanding socioeconomic differences in Mexico.
In Mexico City, the upper class benefits from exclusive services, education, and job opportunities, but challenges like inequality persist. Nuevo León, driven by industry, and Aguascalientes, a hub for technology and innovation, also have 11% upper-class populations.
States like Sonora and Querétaro (10%) thrive due to industries such as mining, agriculture, and technology. Meanwhile, Baja California Sur (10%) leverages tourism, boosting its economy and improving quality of life. Chihuahua and Coahuila (9%) benefit from manufacturing and commerce, while Sinaloa and Colima (8%) rely on agriculture and trade.
- Mexico’s Social Classes
- • Upper Class: Average household income of $48,000 USD annually.
- • Middle Class: Represents about 30% of the population, earning $26,000 USD annually.
- • Lower Class: Over 65% of the population, earning $6,800 USD annually.
- United States Social Classes
- • Upper Class: Wealthy individuals, including corporate leaders and philanthropists, earning $153,000 annually.
- • Middle Class: Professionals and small business owners, earning $94,000 annually.
- • Working Class: Blue-collar workers in factories, construction, and services, earning $58,000 annually.
- • Lower Class: The working poor with seasonal or temporary jobs, earning $30,000 annually.
This comparison underscores significant economic disparities both within Mexico and between Mexico and the United States. Education, infrastructure, and economic diversification remain key to fostering growth and reducing inequality.
