🇺🇸 The Truth About American Wealth: Most of Us Aren’t Rich—We’re Resilient

The Truth About American Wealth: Most of Us Are NOT Rich - We're RESILIENT! This image has been created using AI technology with prompts from Elizabeth Reed (or author and owner)

When people around the world think of the United States, many picture shiny skyscrapers, designer clothes, influencers, and endless convenience. But the truth? That version of America only represents a small fraction of everyday reality.

American Flag representing American People

Despite being one of the wealthiest countries in the world by GDP, most Americans are not rich—not by local or global standards. We live in a country where cost of living, access to affordable healthcare, and income gaps leave millions working hard just to survive.

Let’s break it down, keep it real, and answer a popular question we’ve heard internationally: “Why do rich people in America act poor, and poor people act rich?”

But first, the facts...

💸 How Much Do Americans Really Earn?

According to the U.S. Census Bureau (2023 data):

• Median household income: $74,580 annually (That’s about $6,200 per month before taxes, often supporting entire families.)

• Median personal income: $40,480 annually (Roughly $3,375/month before taxes—barely enough in many cities.)

Many of the wealthy white people in America have the most monetary wealth dating back generations.

Income Breakdown by Race (2023):

• White (non-Hispanic): ~$81,000

• Black/African American: ~$52,000

• Hispanic/Latino: ~$61,000

• Asian: ~$103,000

• Native American: ~$45,000

These figures highlight deep racial wealth gaps still present in U.S. society.

Because of high living costs, most homes in America look like this or people live in under-kept apartments in unsafe and unproductive areas.

🧾 Cost of Living vs. Income

Let’s look at monthly costs for a small family of 3 in a modest U.S. city:

• Rent: $1,200 – $1,800

• Groceries: $500 – $800

• Utilities/Internet: $300 – $400

• Transportation: $400 – $700

• Health Insurance: $400 – $800

• Childcare/School expenses: $300 – $600

• Misc. (hygiene, clothing, emergencies): $200+

💡 That’s easily $3,500 to $5,000+ per month, even before saving for retirement, emergencies, or education.

So no, most Americans are not living in luxury.

A disabled man working as a hairstylist may also receive government assistance

🧃 Government Assistance in the U.S.

Many Americans qualify for some form of public aid, especially during hard times, job loss, or illness.

Key Stats:

• Over 41 million people receive SNAP (food assistance).

• More than 74 million are enrolled in Medicaid (low-income health care).

• Social Security Disability (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) often provide less than:

  • 💵 $1,000/month for millions of disabled, elderly, or struggling people.

These programs are often barely enough to cover rent, let alone all living expenses. And not everyone qualifies, even when they’re in need.

A luxurious mansion that a rich American may live in.

🤔 Why Do Rich Americans Act Poor, and Poor Americans Act Rich?

This may seem strange, but it’s a powerful cultural observation rooted in psychology and survival.

1. Why “rich” people act poor:

• Wealthy individuals often downplay their wealth to avoid judgment, stay private, or protect assets.

• It’s become trendy to be minimalist, “frugal,” or anti-flash—even among millionaires.

• Many self-made wealthy people started with nothing and still live with a survival mindset.

2. Why “poor” people act rich:

• In a society where image = opportunity, many struggling Americans “dress the part” to feel respected or be taken seriously.

• Social media pressures people to look successful—even if they’re drowning in debt.

• For some, small luxuries (nice clothes, phones, cars) are coping mechanisms and symbols of dignity in a harsh system.

⚠️ It’s not about pretending—it’s about surviving a system that often rewards appearance over truth.

World map on grass

💬 So What Does This Mean for You, Our International Family?

We want you to know:

• AquaSoul Home wasn’t built from privilege.It was built from faith, disability, community, and resilience.

• Many of us in America are working multiple jobs, sharing homes, or living on the edge.

• But we also share what we can, support each other, and fight for better—together.

We’re not just selling products.We’re creating a movement where people of all backgrounds can thrive, build, and heal together—no matter where they come from.

People from different backgrounds and cultures working or learning together and having fun.

🧡 Final Thoughts: Real People. Real Struggles. Real Hope.

If you ever thought “everyone in the U.S. is rich,” know this: Millions of us are working class, underpaid, or disabled—fighting to care for our families while building something better.

That’s why AquaSoul Home exists. To reflect our truth, uplift voices, and offer beauty with purpose.

🌍 Whether you're in the U.S., Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, Europe, or beyond—you matter. Together, we can build a world that values people over perception and purpose over perfection.