You're Probably Upper-Middle Class If You Regularly Buy From These Brands

Take a quick scan of your professional friend's home. Have you spotted a Tesla parked in front or an Away suitcase placed by the door? Perhaps a YETI tumbler on the kitchen counter or a West Elm sofa in the living room? Those are signs that mean they're in the upper class. In modern America, social status is revealed not only by what people earn or buy but also by how they think about what they buy. This is particularly true for individuals in the upper-middle class, who focus on a specific set of values instead of flashy logos and extravagant spending. But who belongs to the American upper-middle class? Sociologists define this group less by earnings and more by a combination of education, occupation, and mindset.

Core members are well-educated, often with postgraduate degrees, and work in white-collar positions like medicine, law, tech, or finance. While the annual household income for this group is between $117,000 and $150,000, as published by CNBC, if you pocket $100,000 as a single earner, you're officially upper class. Of course, it depends on the state you live in. For instance, to be considered affluent in New Jersey, you need to make from $157,939 to $202,100 but in Mississippi, this figure lowers to $109,830 as per GoBankingRates. Anyhow, it surpasses the national median household income, listed at $83,730, according to the Census Bureau. The brands you'll read about aren't seen as luxuries by upper-middle-class people. Rather, they perceive them as investments in time, wellness, convenience, or ethical values. So, if you belong to this circle, you may recognize them.

The upper-middle class also stratifies hydration. With the motto "buy it for life," YETI has built an empire out of durable premium coolers and tumblers with exceptional thermal performance. You can drink pretty much anything from a YETI: water, espresso, tea, chocolate, juice, sports drinks, milkshakes, cider, beer, or whatever you want. Its stainless steel tumblers are double-wall vacuum insulated, meaning that they will keep hot drinks hot and cold drinks cold for hours. This over-engineered quality, however, comes with a hefty price tag: $325 for the Tundra 45 Hard Cooler, $250 for the Hopper Flip 12 Soft Cooler, and $40 for the Rambler 20 oz Tumbler, the brand's most visible and commercially significant product.

Having your beverages in a YETI conveys the message of, "Hey, I've got the money, even for the most mundane things." It's not the same as arriving at your office with a Starbucks disposable cup as it is to carry your coffee in a YETI Rambler. Originally, the brand focused on outdoor and fishing communities, but nowadays it's more like a staple in suburban kitchens, corporate offices, gyms, and backyard barbecues. The YETI logo has become a badge of honor for those in a higher social class, signaling an appreciation for quality and durability and a commitment to wellness that comes from owning the best version of a simple liquid container. These are key elements that the American upper-middle class seeks.

This brand understood that upper-middle-class urban professionals craved prescription glasses without the hassle of going to vision centers. Let's face it: buying glasses old school is an annoying experience –– trying on frame after frame in a store. Warby Parker changed the game with its genius "Home Try-On Program," which lets you pick five frames online and test them at home for five days. In this way, you can see how your glasses match your wardrobe or feel after long hours in front of the computer. That makes a real difference. Starting at $95, Warby Parker's frame workhorses — Winston, Durand, and Percey — offer well-made lenses with UV protection and scratch-resistant, anti-reflective coatings.

Of course, if your eye prescription or preferences are more complex, there are extras you might pay for. These include blue-light filtering, light-responsive photochromic transitions, hydrophobic treatment, or multifocal lenses if you hate switching between reading and regular lenses. The brand has more expensive frames, like the Weller at $195, which still represents a significant value compared to traditional luxury eyewear. Another factor that secured Warby Parker's place in the heart of the upper-middle class is its social mission. Through its "buy-a-pair-give-a-pair" initiative, the company donates a pair of glasses or sunglasses for every pair you buy. Bottom line, wearing Warby Parker is more than vision correction; it says that you're a savvy, stylish, and socially aware consumer.

Feeling and looking good are no longer divorced; au contraire, they've reconciled thanks to Lululemon. Since 1998, this Canadian brand has captured the premium athleisure market for a loyal upper-middle class that believes wellness is a central principle of identity. Lululemon offers high-quality activewear, athletic gear, and lifestyle products for yoga, training, running, and more. But it has gone beyond to produce pants, shirts, and jackets for a modern hybrid professional environment. What truly sets Lululemon apart are its innovative, original textiles such as Nulu, Luon, Warpstreme, and Everlux (designed for high-intensity, sweaty workouts like HIIT and hot yoga).

Described as "buttery-soft and weightless," Nulu is used in the label's top-selling products, such as the Align Leggings ($98-$118) and the versatile $128 Define Jacket, which blends Nulu with Luon. For men, the brand offers the super comfortable $68 Pace Breaker Linerless Short and the ABC (Anti-Ball Crushing) Classic-Fit Pant. This pant starts at $128 and is crafted from Warpstreme — a wrinkle-resistant, moisture-wicking fabric unique to Lululemon. Yes, the prices are a bit excessive, but that's part of the allure. The idea is that Lululemon wearers share similar values. So, for those earning over $150,000 per year, the steep cost is not a bug but a wardrobe basic and a feature of successful people. Perhaps Lululemon isn't one of the luxury clothing brands that rule the world, but it's definitely worthwhile.

If you are a conscious consumer seeking a simple, exquisite armoire, Everlane might be for you. This brand built its identity on the principle of "Radical Transparency." On its website, the company details materials, labor, and transportation for every minimalist cashmere sweater or leather tote and compares it to traditional retail. This philosophy has attracted a loyal following among millennials and Gen Z, who are aware of the devastating impact of the fashion industry and prefer brands that support ethical work practices. However, it's not only ethics; Everlane's aesthetics are timeless and made to outlast fleeting trends.

Such attention to quality and longevity is complemented with a direct-to-consumer model that cuts out the retail markup, creating a fair value proposition. Everlane's "Cult Favorites" include the $118 vintage-inspired Original Cheeky Jean and the TikTok-famous $148 Way High Jean, a leg-lengthening high-rise jean. But you can also buy sweatpants that integrate casual and business outfits, like the Dream Pant, ideal for hybrid work, priced at $98. For those in the upper-middle class, choosing Everlane suggests that they want to look clean, modern, and conscientious, all in one go. Its magical simplicity helps you be more productive, as you don't spend time thinking about what to wear.

Patagonia is a symbol of durability and sustainability, as it resisted the fast-fashion cycle and focused on perfecting iconic styles. When you buy a piece from Patagonia, you know that you can use and reuse it as many times as you want, and it will last for years. One of its flagship products, the Better Sweater Jacket ($159), is famous for its versatility, as it works well outdoors or as casual wear. This vest has become so popular that it's called the "Midtown Uniform" in the finance and tech corridors of New York and San Francisco. Another icon of the brand is the $139 Lightweight Synchilla Snap-T, which has defined the brand's aesthetic since 1985. And don't forget the legendary Baggies Shorts ($69), which have barely changed since 1982.

More expensive highlights include the $229 Nano Puff Jacket. Since 2009, this outerwear's windproof and water-resistant features have set the standard for packable, synthetic insulated jackets. Patagonia is so committed to environmental issues that it advertised "Don't Buy This Jacket" in a New York Times ad on Black Friday in 2011. The point was to encourage consumers to buy less, choose quality items, and reconsider unnecessary purchases. But this anti-consumerist stance only made its products more desirable to its target audience. The brand's "Worn Wear" marketplace sells the label's used gear, turning pre-owned into both a new revenue stream and a powerful marketing strategy. Shopping at Patagonia is a form of "inconspicuous consumption." Here, the status comes not from a flashy logo but from the knowledge and values the brand represents.

This company made a splash when it launched sock-like footwear using natural fabrics, instantly connecting with upper-middle-class millennials and Gen Zers who are in love with sustainability. With these eco-friendly materials, the brand seeks to differentiate itself from giants such as Nike or Adidas and position itself as their minimalist "opposite." Similar to Everlane, Allbirds reveals data related to its manufacturing process. For instance, it shows the carbon footprint on the insole of every shoe to help customers make a more informed choice. This strategy aims at selling a value system. Regarding prices, Allbirds' shoes range from $100 to $145.

Although pricier than some of its competitors, its products remain accessible enough to become the default for their intended buyers. You can go for the Wool Runner (the one that catapulted the brand), which, as you guessed, uses merino wool for a warm sense. For a while, it was the unofficial shoe of Silicon Valley and a symbol of casual innovation. Or you might want the Tree Runner, a model with a woven, smooth texture made from Tencel (eucalyptus tree fiber), for a lightweight, breathable, cool-feeling option ideal for hotter temperatures. Do you often work on wet surfaces? No problem. The Wool Runner Mizzle, with water repellency, may be the right alternative. Allbirds has everything, but to buy regularly from them, you must be part of the privileged class.

For an upper-middle-class professional, especially one in the earlier stages of a promising business path, accessible elite brands offer a tangible, chic way to signal newfound success. And no other name has captured this market better than Tory Burch. Its handbags and iconic Reva ballerina flats have become like a rite of passage for a generation of ambitious women. Founded and inspired by fashion designer and businesswoman Tory Burch, this stylish house fills the gap between mass-market labels and the ultra-luxury Chanel or Louis Vuitton, offering elegant boutiques and quality craftsmanship at a fairer price.

The usual entry point to the brand is the $240 Ella Tote –– lightweight, durable, and featuring the large, recognizable logo. But if you have just been promoted to a better position in your company, why not upgrade and buy a multitasking $395 Perry Tote as your first fine bag? Its clean lines, simple design, and functionality make it perfect for professionals. Or perhaps a $575 quilted leather Kira Shoulder Bag, a sophisticated competitor to higher-priced luxury brands. For many women, a Tory Burch is a "milestone purchase," bought to celebrate a bonus or the start of a new career. Even though these bags are quite pricey, they are way more affordable than a multi-thousand-dollar handbag from a European fashion empire. With a Tory Burch, you transmit a level of taste and accomplishment without feeling too flashy.

A committed, ambitious professional considers fitness non-negotiable. And for them, the debate of home gym vs gym membership is easily settled. In this high-performance lifestyle, Equinox has cleverly positioned itself not only as a gym but also as a private social club, sanctuary, remote office, and the ultimate symbol of wellness. But to belong to this exclusive hub, you have to be able to afford memberships that are anything but cheap. For example, a Single-Club Access costs between $205 and $265 a month and requires a one-year commitment. The next level is the $270-$330 Regional Access, which gives you full rights to enter all the facilities in a specific city. But if you travel nationwide and want to step into every club, you need the All-Access Membership, which ranges from $330 to $395.

The ultra-premium tier, Destination+/E by Equinox, is about $500+ each month and grants you access to exclusive "E" clubs. Of course, this brand offers coaching assistance, like its Tier X Personal Training, a full self-care management program. But given the exorbitant costs, check your health insurance before paying for a gym membership. These fees deliberately curate the clientele, creating a community of only high-income individuals, often in their late 20s and older, who can afford these services. Equinox's most famous marketing move, "We Don't Speak January," refuses memberships on New Year's Day as a strategy to reject the fleeting resolutions of the masses, reinforcing its identity as a club for the truly committed.

Being in the upper-middle class means that experiences hold more weight than possessions. So, a life rich with tourism and adventure is an indicator of success. Away fits perfectly into this philosophy and markets itself not as a luggage company but as a travel signature for a new generation that wants to live and share online. This brand offers sleek and minimalist suitcases made from durable polycarbonate shells and a mindfully designed interior for digitally savvy millennials. Away's popular products start with The Carry-On ($275), the original product that defined the brand's aesthetic. Next is the number one bestseller, The Bigger Carry-On ($295), loved by professionals who hit the road frequently for work or pleasure.

For longer trips, there's The Medium ($345) and The Large ($375), which are perfect if you plan to live abroad and retire to a South American country. To complete the collection, look at The Everywhere Bag, the ideal "plus-one" to the roller bags, listed at $195. The prices might sound a little high, but remember that its target audience makes over $150,000 a year, so this is not a big deal. The company's success is a masterclass in marketing. Before selling anything, Away built a community by creating a book of travel stories with influencers. So, when the luggage finally launched, the path was set, and the brand's Instagram feed was filled with user-generated content about Away suitcases in exotic locations around the world.

Do you remember your early 20s on campus or in a rented apartment — the coffee-stained sofa, used by everyone, with a faint smell of pizza and soda? After graduating and starting a job, you moved from that transitory life into your first adult place, free to furnish it at will. Well, let there be West Elm, the go-to brand for the upper-middle-class home. Positioned within the Williams-Sonoma portfolio, West Elm sits in a sweet spot above the mass-market functionality of IKEA but in a more accessible zone than the high-end pieces from its sister, Pottery Barn — which caters to a more classic audience. This position makes it the ideal choice for a 30-something professional couple ready to invest in furniture.

Among its long list of living room options, you have the Andes Sofa Collection, a customizable set with a contemporary air, ranging from $600 to $6,897. Then, the Harris Sofa enters the scene, priced between $400 and $8,297. And the crown jewel, the ultimate sink-in comfort Haven Sofa Collection, is available from $800 to $6,997. If you keep your sofa clean and in excellent condition, maybe in a few decades it could become an old piece of furniture worth a ton of money. Beyond the living room, the brand's catalogs and showrooms include rugs, bedding and bath, pillows, kitchen & dining, storage, and baby & kids to project an aspirational vision of a modern lifestyle that is elegant without being lavish. So, for a generation that grew up with short-term decor, buying West Elm represents a declaration that better times have arrived.

Rephrasing Jane Austen, "It is a truth universally acknowledged that an upper-middle-class individual in possession of a good fortune must be in want of an expensive car in their driveway." Parking a Tesla in front of your house proves that you belong to a distinct group. Tesla has cultivated an almost immaculate reputation as the vehicle of "smart" wealth that signals an alignment with technology, sustainability, and a forward-looking worldview (at least, prior to CEO Elon Musk's political traipses). The average net worth of people who own a Tesla is around $1 million, and they are typically professionals working in a tech or creative field who see the purchase not as a splurge but as a sound decision.

In the United States, the lineup starts with the Model 3 (from $42,490), the sedan that brought EVs to the masses, and the popular compact SUV Model Y (from $46,630), praised for its performance and practicality. Stepping up, the Model S (from $96,630) is the luxury long-range sedan that established Tesla as an industry leader. The set is complete with the Cybertruck (from $69,990), a pickup with an angular design made of cold-rolled stainless steel with on- and off-road capability. Apart from vehicles, Tesla offers its Full Self-Driving (Supervised) software, which provides autonomous driving capabilities at $8,000 (one-time deal) or $99 per month (subscription). Ultimately, owning a Tesla is a symbol of wealth, and for the upper-middle class, it is a staple in their garage.