How much monthly income puts you in rich, middle class and poor in India?

Hey there! Let’s break down the concept of income brackets in India to understand what might classify someone as rich, middle class, or poor. These categories can vary based on location, family size, and lifestyle, but I’ll give you a general idea based on common economic studies and surveys.

In India, income classifications are often discussed in terms of monthly household income, and they can differ between urban and rural areas due to the cost of living. According to various reports like the National Sample Survey and economic analyses, a rough estimate for urban areas could be: If your household earns less than ₹15,000 per month, you might fall into the poor category, struggling to meet basic needs like food, shelter, and healthcare. The middle class typically ranges from ₹15,000 to ₹75,000 per month, where you can afford a decent standard of living, including education, housing, and some savings. If your household income exceeds ₹75,000 per month, you’re often considered rich, with access to luxury goods, investments, and a comfortable lifestyle. Keep in mind, in metro cities like Mumbai or Delhi, these numbers could shift higher due to expensive living costs—sometimes, even ₹1 lakh per month might just keep you in the middle class!

I hope this gives you a clear picture. These are rough estimates and personal circumstances play a huge role, but it’s a starting point to understand income distribution in India. Interesting fact: Did you know that, as per a 2021 report by the Pew Research Center, nearly 60% of India’s population falls into the low-income or poor category globally, highlighting the vast income inequality in the country?