Politicians often use these two terms, mostly referencing middle-to-lower-income working Americans who have been most negatively impacted by the rising cost-of-living crisis throughout the US over the past 6 years. Many are consistently used as political pawns with big promises that are rarely delivered, if ever. They often live paycheck-to-paycheck, rent, own few if any investments for retirement, and their daily struggles are real.

Earning for survival is, of course, very different from earning with the ability to invest. The difference between the two has been the primary wealth disparity/differentiator of the past decade. Those with investments have fared well. Those without have stagnated and suffered. Those who have owned, including homes, have benefited tremendously. Those who have rented without investing wisely have seen their wealth evaporate. Those who work for companies that they have invested in have mostly thrived.

The 2019–2025 period significantly widened the wealth gap between owners and renters. Renters faced both high general inflation and rapid rent increases. Many lowered tax policies benefited owners more than earners and/or renters. By May 2025, the total monthly cost of owning a home was high, but the cost of renting a single-family home was also intense, often exceeding 40% more than the cost of a long-term fixed mortgage payment. An owned home may be the canvas for life, but it is also a life raft during turbulent times!