By Nahuel Traferro

Economic inequality in the United States has been increasing for decades, and the gap between the wealthy and the poor is larger than ever. While some Americans enjoy massive financial success, millions struggle to make ends meet. This issue affects everything from education and healthcare to job opportunities and overall quality of life.

According to the Pew Research Center, the top 1% of earners in the U.S. hold more wealth than the entire middle class combined. In fact, the richest 10% of Americans own about 70% of the country’s total wealth. Meanwhile, wages for lower-income workers have barely increased when adjusted for inflation. Many people working full-time jobs still struggle to afford basic necessities like rent, groceries, and medical bills.

One major factor behind this growing inequality is the
difference in access to education. Wealthier families can
afford better schools, private tutors, and college tuition,
giving their children an advantage in the job market. On the
other hand, low-income students often attend underfunded
schools and take on large amounts of debt just to get a
degree. This cycle makes it harder for them to climb the
economic ladder.

Another key issue is the minimum wage. The federal
minimum wage has been stuck at $7.25 per hour since 2009,
while the cost of living continues to rise. In many cities, this
wage is simply not enough to cover rent and other expenses.
Some states have raised their minimum wages, but there is
still a large gap between wages and the cost of living in
many areas.

Economic inequality also impacts health. Low-income
individuals often lack access to proper healthcare, which
leads to higher rates of chronic illnesses and shorter life
expectancies. Wealthier Americans, on the other hand, can
afford top-quality medical care and healthier lifestyles.

Addressing economic inequality requires a mix of policy
changes, including higher wages, better access to education,
and improved social programs. Without action, the wealth
gap will continue to grow, leaving millions of Americans
struggling while a small percentage thrives. If the U.S.
wants to create a fairer and more stable society, reducing
economic inequality must be a priority.