**What Is Middle Income? A Guide to Understanding Income Tiers**

Middle income is a crucial economic indicator, and understanding it can significantly impact your financial strategies and partnership opportunities. Are you looking to understand your income tier and explore opportunities for income growth? At income-partners.net, we provide the resources and connections you need to navigate the income landscape effectively.

Dive into this guide to uncover the definition of middle income, its implications, and how you can leverage this knowledge to boost your financial standing. Discover how to identify lucrative partnership opportunities and strategies to maximize your earning potential through strategic alliances and collaborations. Unlock the secrets to achieving financial stability and upward mobility through a comprehensive understanding of income distribution and partnership dynamics.

1. Defining Middle Income: What Does It Really Mean?

Middle income refers to a range of earnings that falls between the lower-income and upper-income brackets within a specific region or economy. Generally, it represents the income level of the majority of households.

The middle-income tier is pivotal for economic stability and growth. According to a Pew Research Center analysis of 2022 government data, about 52% of U.S. adults lived in middle-income households. This income level often supports a comfortable lifestyle, covering essential needs and some discretionary spending. Understanding what constitutes middle income helps individuals and businesses tailor their financial planning and strategies effectively.

1.1 How Is Middle Income Determined?

Middle income is typically determined by calculating a range around the median household income. This range is often defined as two-thirds to double the median income.

Several factors influence the determination of middle income:

Median Household Income: The primary benchmark for setting income tiers.
Cost of Living: Adjustments are made to account for regional variations in expenses.
Household Size: Income ranges are often standardized to a three-person household.

For instance, in 2022, the middle-income range in the U.S. was approximately $56,600 to $169,800 for a three-person household. This range helps categorize households and understand income distribution across the population.

1.2 Why Is Understanding Middle Income Important?

Understanding middle income is crucial for several reasons, including financial planning, economic analysis, and identifying partnership opportunities.

The significance of understanding middle income includes:

Financial Planning: Helps individuals set realistic financial goals and manage budgets.
Economic Analysis: Provides insights into the economic health and stability of a region.
Policy Making: Informs government policies related to taxation, social welfare, and economic development.
Business Strategy: Helps businesses tailor products and services to the income levels of their target market.
Partnership Opportunities: Assists in identifying potential partners whose financial goals align with yours for mutual growth.

According to the University of Texas at Austin’s McCombs School of Business, understanding income tiers can significantly impact strategic decision-making for businesses aiming to target specific consumer segments.

1.3 What Are the Challenges in Defining Middle Income?

Defining middle income involves several challenges, primarily due to economic disparities, varying costs of living, and evolving economic conditions.

Key challenges in defining middle income include:

Economic Disparities: Wide income gaps make it difficult to establish a universally applicable range.
Cost of Living Variations: Significant differences in expenses across regions necessitate adjustments.
Inflation and Economic Changes: Economic fluctuations require frequent updates to income ranges.
Household Size and Composition: Standardizing income for different household sizes can be complex.

These challenges require a nuanced approach to defining middle income, often involving localized data and frequent recalibrations to reflect current economic realities.

2. Key Factors Influencing Middle-Income Status

Several key factors influence whether a household is classified as middle income. These factors range from education and occupation to geographic location and household demographics.

2.1 Education and Income Levels

Education plays a pivotal role in determining income levels. Higher levels of education often correlate with better job opportunities and higher salaries.

The impact of education on income includes:

Increased Earning Potential: Higher education typically leads to higher-paying jobs.
Job Security: More educated individuals may have greater job security during economic downturns.
Career Advancement: Education can open doors to more advanced and specialized roles.
Entrepreneurial Opportunities: Education provides the knowledge and skills needed to start and manage businesses.

According to a study by Harvard Business Review, individuals with a bachelor’s degree earn significantly more over their lifetime compared to those with only a high school diploma.

2.2 Occupation and Industry Trends

The occupation and industry in which an individual works significantly affect their income. Some industries offer higher average salaries and more opportunities for advancement.

Occupational and industry factors include:

High-Demand Industries: Sectors like technology, healthcare, and finance often offer higher compensation.
Specialized Skills: Jobs requiring specialized skills or certifications command higher salaries.
Industry Growth: Growing industries tend to provide more job opportunities and higher pay.
Unionization: Industries with strong unions often have better wages and benefits.

For example, software developers and data scientists in the tech industry typically earn above-average incomes due to high demand and specialized skill sets.

2.3 Geographic Location and Cost of Living

Geographic location and the associated cost of living are crucial factors in determining middle-income status. The same income can have vastly different purchasing power in different areas.

Geographic factors to consider:

Urban vs. Rural Areas: Urban areas typically have higher costs of living but also offer more job opportunities.
Regional Economic Differences: Economic conditions vary by region, affecting income levels and job availability.
Housing Costs: Housing is often the largest expense for households, significantly impacting affordability.
Local Taxes: State and local taxes can affect disposable income.

Pew Research Center data shows that the cost of living can vary significantly across metropolitan areas, influencing the real value of middle-income wages.

2.4 Household Size and Composition

Household size and composition affect income needs and financial stability. Larger households require more income to maintain a comparable standard of living.

Household dynamics to consider:

Number of Earners: Households with multiple income earners are often more financially secure.
Dependents: The number of children or other dependents affects household expenses.
Dual-Income Households: Increasing numbers of dual-income households contribute to higher overall income.
Single-Parent Households: Single-parent households often face greater financial challenges.

Adjusting income ranges for household size is crucial for accurately assessing middle-income status, as larger households need more income to cover their expenses.

A family discussing their finances, emphasizing the importance of financial planning and budgeting in maintaining a middle-income lifestyle

3. The American Middle Class: A Closer Look

The American middle class is a diverse group that plays a vital role in the U.S. economy. Understanding its characteristics, challenges, and opportunities is essential for economic planning and development.

3.1 Defining the American Middle Class

The American middle class is generally defined as households with an income ranging from two-thirds to double the national median income, adjusted for household size and cost of living.

Key aspects of the American middle class:

Economic Stability: The middle class is often seen as a stabilizing force in the economy.
Consumer Spending: Middle-income households drive a significant portion of consumer spending.
Homeownership: Homeownership is a common aspiration and indicator of middle-class status.
Educational Attainment: A college education is increasingly important for maintaining middle-class status.

In 2022, the middle-income range in the U.S. was approximately $56,600 to $169,800 for a three-person household, according to Pew Research Center.

3.2 The Shrinking Middle Class: Causes and Consequences

Over the past few decades, the American middle class has been shrinking, with more households moving into lower-income and upper-income tiers.

Causes of the shrinking middle class:

Wage Stagnation: Real wages have not kept pace with inflation, reducing purchasing power.
Income Inequality: The gap between the rich and the poor has widened, leading to income concentration.
Globalization and Automation: Job displacement due to globalization and automation has affected middle-income jobs.
Rising Costs of Education and Healthcare: Increasing costs of essential services have strained middle-class finances.

Consequences of a shrinking middle class:

Reduced Economic Mobility: Fewer opportunities for upward mobility can lead to social unrest.
Lower Consumer Spending: A decline in middle-class purchasing power can slow economic growth.
Increased Social Inequality: Greater income disparities can exacerbate social tensions.
Political Instability: Economic insecurity can lead to political polarization and instability.

Addressing these challenges requires policies that promote wage growth, reduce income inequality, and ensure access to affordable education and healthcare.

3.3 Strategies for Maintaining and Growing Middle-Class Income

Despite the challenges, there are strategies individuals and families can use to maintain and grow their middle-class income.

Effective strategies include:

Investing in Education: Pursuing higher education or vocational training can increase earning potential.
Developing In-Demand Skills: Acquiring skills that are in high demand in the job market can lead to better job opportunities.
Financial Planning and Budgeting: Managing finances effectively and creating a budget can help control expenses.
Investing in Assets: Investing in stocks, real estate, or other assets can build wealth over time.
Seeking Partnership Opportunities: Collaborating with other professionals or businesses can create new income streams.

According to Entrepreneur.com, strategic partnerships can provide access to new markets, resources, and expertise, fostering business growth and increasing income.

4. Middle Income Around the U.S.: Regional Variations

Middle-income levels vary significantly across different regions of the United States due to differences in the cost of living, economic conditions, and industry trends.

4.1 States with the Highest Middle-Class Income

Certain states have a higher median household income and a larger proportion of middle-income households due to thriving economies and high-paying industries.

Examples of states with high middle-class incomes:

Maryland: Benefits from proximity to Washington, D.C., and a strong government sector.
New Jersey: Has a diverse economy with strong healthcare and finance sectors.
Massachusetts: Boasts a strong technology and education sector.
Hawaii: While having a high cost of living, it also supports a robust middle class through tourism and military sectors.

These states often have higher costs of living, but their higher incomes allow middle-class households to maintain a comfortable standard of living.

4.2 States with the Lowest Middle-Class Income

Conversely, some states have lower median household incomes and a smaller proportion of middle-income households due to weaker economies and lower-paying industries.

Examples of states with lower middle-class incomes:

Mississippi: Faces economic challenges with a reliance on agriculture and manufacturing.
West Virginia: Struggles with a declining coal industry and limited economic diversification.
Arkansas: Has a predominantly rural economy with lower wages.
Louisiana: Impacted by the oil industry’s volatility and a higher poverty rate.

These states often have lower costs of living, but the lower incomes can make it difficult for middle-class households to achieve financial stability.

4.3 Cost of Living Adjustments: Making Sense of the Numbers

To accurately compare middle-income levels across different regions, it is essential to adjust for the cost of living. The same income can have vastly different purchasing power depending on the location.

Key factors in cost-of-living adjustments:

Housing Costs: Housing is typically the largest expense for households, so variations in housing costs significantly impact affordability.
Transportation Costs: Transportation expenses, including car ownership and public transit, can vary widely.
Food Costs: Food prices differ across regions due to local agriculture and distribution costs.
Healthcare Costs: Healthcare expenses can vary depending on insurance coverage and local healthcare providers.
Taxes: State and local taxes can affect disposable income.

For example, a household with an income of $60,000 in Jackson, Tennessee, where the cost of living is 13% below the national average, has a similar purchasing power to a household with an income of $68,000 in San Francisco, California, where the cost of living is significantly higher.

4.4 Metropolitan Area Analysis: Austin, Texas, and Beyond

Analyzing metropolitan areas provides a more granular understanding of middle-income variations. Cities like Austin, Texas, have seen significant economic growth and changes in income distribution.

Insights from metropolitan area analysis:

Austin, Texas: A booming tech industry has driven up incomes and the cost of living, creating a mix of high-income and middle-income households.
San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, California: Has a high proportion of upper-income households due to the concentration of tech companies.
Olympia-Lacey-Tumwater, Washington: Features a relatively large middle-class population due to government and service sector jobs.
Laredo, Texas: Faces economic challenges with a high proportion of lower-income households.

Understanding these local dynamics is crucial for tailoring financial strategies and identifying partnership opportunities that align with the economic realities of each area. Address: 1 University Station, Austin, TX 78712, United States. Phone: +1 (512) 471-3434. Website: income-partners.net.

5. The Impact of Economic Policies on Middle Income

Economic policies at the federal, state, and local levels can significantly impact middle-income households, affecting their financial stability and opportunities for advancement.

5.1 Taxation and Middle-Class Families

Tax policies play a crucial role in determining the disposable income of middle-class families. Progressive tax systems, where higher earners pay a larger percentage of their income in taxes, can help fund social programs that benefit the middle class.

Impact of taxation:

Tax Cuts: Tax cuts can increase disposable income, allowing families to spend more and stimulate the economy.
Tax Credits: Targeted tax credits for education, childcare, or healthcare can provide financial relief for middle-class families.
Tax Hikes: Tax increases can reduce disposable income but may fund essential government services.
Tax Loopholes: Loopholes that allow wealthy individuals and corporations to avoid taxes can shift the tax burden onto the middle class.

According to the Tax Policy Center, changes in tax policies can have significant distributional effects, affecting different income groups differently.

5.2 Social Welfare Programs and Income Support

Social welfare programs, such as unemployment benefits, food assistance, and housing subsidies, provide a safety net for middle-income families facing economic hardship.

Key social welfare programs:

Unemployment Benefits: Provide temporary income support for workers who have lost their jobs.
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP): Helps low-income families afford food.
Housing Assistance: Subsidizes housing costs for low- and moderate-income families.
Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC): Provides a tax credit for low- and moderate-income workers.

These programs can help stabilize middle-class incomes during economic downturns and provide essential support for families struggling to make ends meet.

5.3 Labor Laws and Wage Standards

Labor laws and wage standards, such as minimum wage laws and collective bargaining rights, affect the earnings and working conditions of middle-class workers.

Impact of labor laws:

Minimum Wage Laws: Set a minimum hourly wage, ensuring that low-wage workers earn a living wage.
Collective Bargaining: Allows workers to negotiate wages and benefits with their employers through unions.
Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA): Establishes standards for overtime pay, child labor, and other labor practices.
Paid Leave Policies: Provide workers with paid time off for sick leave, parental leave, or vacation.

Strong labor laws and wage standards can help ensure that middle-class workers earn fair wages and have access to decent working conditions.

5.4 Education Policies and Accessibility

Education policies that promote accessibility and affordability can help middle-class families invest in their children’s future and improve their long-term earning potential.

Key education policies:

Public School Funding: Adequate funding for public schools ensures that all children have access to quality education.
Financial Aid Programs: Grants and loans help students from low- and moderate-income families afford college.
Tuition Assistance: Programs that reduce the cost of college tuition can make higher education more accessible.
Early Childhood Education: Investments in early childhood education programs can improve outcomes for disadvantaged children.

Policies that promote educational equity can help break the cycle of poverty and create opportunities for upward mobility for middle-class families.

6. Navigating Income Tiers: Strategies for Upward Mobility

Achieving upward mobility and moving into a higher income tier requires a combination of strategic financial planning, skill development, and leveraging partnership opportunities.

6.1 Financial Planning and Budgeting for Growth

Effective financial planning and budgeting are essential for managing expenses, saving for the future, and investing in opportunities for growth.

Key financial planning strategies:

Creating a Budget: Tracking income and expenses to identify areas for savings.
Setting Financial Goals: Defining specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals.
Saving Regularly: Setting aside a portion of income each month for savings.
Investing Wisely: Diversifying investments to reduce risk and maximize returns.
Managing Debt: Avoiding high-interest debt and paying down existing debt strategically.

Financial advisors can provide personalized guidance and help individuals develop a comprehensive financial plan tailored to their needs and goals.

6.2 Skill Development and Career Advancement

Investing in skill development and pursuing career advancement opportunities can lead to higher earnings and greater job security.

Strategies for skill development and career advancement:

Pursuing Higher Education: Obtaining a college degree or advanced certification can increase earning potential.
Learning New Skills: Acquiring skills that are in demand in the job market can open doors to new opportunities.
Networking: Building relationships with other professionals in your field can lead to job referrals and career advice.
Seeking Promotions: Taking on new responsibilities and seeking promotions can lead to higher salaries and more challenging work.
Changing Careers: Considering a career change to a higher-paying field may be necessary for some individuals.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics provides data on job growth and salary trends, helping individuals identify promising career paths.

6.3 Leveraging Partnership Opportunities for Increased Income

Strategic partnerships can provide access to new markets, resources, and expertise, fostering business growth and increasing income.

Types of partnership opportunities:

Strategic Alliances: Collaborating with other businesses to achieve mutual goals.
Joint Ventures: Forming a new company with another business to pursue a specific project.
Distribution Agreements: Partnering with a distributor to sell your products or services in new markets.
Affiliate Marketing: Earning commissions by promoting other companies’ products or services.

According to Harvard Business Review, successful partnerships require clear communication, shared goals, and a commitment to mutual success.

6.4 Entrepreneurship and Small Business Ownership

Starting a business can provide opportunities for significant income growth and financial independence.

Considerations for entrepreneurship:

Developing a Business Plan: Creating a detailed plan that outlines your business goals, strategies, and financial projections.
Securing Funding: Obtaining financing through loans, grants, or investors.
Marketing Your Business: Promoting your products or services to attract customers.
Managing Finances: Keeping track of income and expenses and managing cash flow effectively.
Building a Team: Hiring talented employees who can help you grow your business.

The Small Business Administration (SBA) provides resources and support for entrepreneurs, including training, counseling, and access to capital.

7. How to Find the Right Partners to Increase Your Income

Finding the right partners is crucial for leveraging partnership opportunities and achieving income growth. Income-partners.net provides resources to help you identify, evaluate, and connect with potential partners.

7.1 Identifying Potential Partners

The first step in finding the right partners is identifying potential candidates who align with your goals and values.

Strategies for identifying potential partners:

Networking Events: Attending industry conferences, trade shows, and other networking events.
Online Platforms: Using online platforms like LinkedIn and income-partners.net to connect with professionals in your field.
Industry Associations: Joining industry associations to meet potential partners and learn about new opportunities.
Referrals: Asking your existing contacts for referrals to potential partners.

At income-partners.net, you can explore a diverse network of professionals and businesses seeking partnership opportunities.

7.2 Evaluating Potential Partners

Once you have identified potential partners, it is essential to evaluate their capabilities, experience, and reputation.

Factors to consider when evaluating potential partners:

Experience and Expertise: Assessing their track record and expertise in their field.
Financial Stability: Evaluating their financial health and stability.
Reputation: Checking their reputation among customers, suppliers, and other partners.
Cultural Fit: Determining whether their values and work style align with yours.

Thorough due diligence can help you avoid partnering with unreliable or incompatible partners.

7.3 Building Trust and Rapport

Building trust and rapport is essential for establishing a successful partnership.

Strategies for building trust and rapport:

Communicating Openly: Sharing information and ideas openly and honestly.
Being Reliable: Following through on commitments and meeting deadlines.
Showing Respect: Treating your partners with respect and valuing their contributions.
Building Personal Relationships: Getting to know your partners on a personal level and building camaraderie.

Trust and rapport are the foundation of any successful partnership.

7.4 Negotiating Mutually Beneficial Agreements

Negotiating mutually beneficial agreements is crucial for ensuring that both parties benefit from the partnership.

Key elements of a partnership agreement:

Scope of Work: Defining the responsibilities and deliverables of each partner.
Financial Terms: Specifying how profits and expenses will be shared.
Decision-Making Process: Establishing a process for making decisions and resolving disputes.
Term and Termination: Defining the term of the agreement and the conditions for termination.

Legal counsel can help you draft and review partnership agreements to ensure that your interests are protected.

8. Success Stories: How Partnerships Can Boost Middle-Income Growth

Real-world success stories illustrate how strategic partnerships can drive middle-income growth and create new opportunities.

8.1 Case Study 1: Tech Startup and Marketing Agency

A tech startup partnered with a marketing agency to promote its new product. The partnership resulted in increased brand awareness, higher sales, and significant revenue growth for both companies.

8.2 Case Study 2: Local Business and Community Organization

A local business partnered with a community organization to support local initiatives. The partnership enhanced the business’s reputation, attracted new customers, and strengthened its ties to the community.

8.3 Case Study 3: Freelancer and Consulting Firm

A freelancer partnered with a consulting firm to provide specialized services to clients. The partnership allowed the freelancer to access larger projects and earn higher fees, while the consulting firm expanded its service offerings.

8.4 Key Takeaways from Successful Partnerships

Common elements of successful partnerships:

Shared Vision: Both partners have a clear understanding of their goals and how the partnership will help them achieve those goals.
Complementary Skills: Each partner brings unique skills and expertise to the table.
Effective Communication: Partners communicate openly and honestly with each other.
Mutual Respect: Partners value each other’s contributions and treat each other with respect.
Commitment to Success: Both partners are committed to the success of the partnership.

These success stories demonstrate the power of partnerships in driving income growth and creating new opportunities for middle-income individuals and businesses.

9. The Future of Middle Income: Trends and Predictions

The future of middle income is subject to various economic, technological, and social trends. Understanding these trends can help individuals and businesses prepare for the challenges and opportunities ahead.

9.1 The Impact of Automation and AI

Automation and artificial intelligence (AI) are transforming the job market, potentially displacing some middle-income jobs while creating new opportunities in other fields.

Potential impacts:

Job Displacement: Automation may eliminate routine tasks and some middle-skill jobs.
New Job Creation: AI and related technologies will create new jobs in areas like data science, software development, and AI management.
Skill Requirements: Workers will need to acquire new skills to adapt to the changing job market.
Wage Polarization: The gap between high-skill and low-skill wages may widen.

Investing in education and training can help workers prepare for the future of work and take advantage of new opportunities.

9.2 The Rise of the Gig Economy

The gig economy, characterized by short-term contracts and freelance work, is growing rapidly. This trend presents both opportunities and challenges for middle-income workers.

Opportunities:

Flexibility: Gig workers can set their own hours and work from anywhere.
Income Potential: Skilled gig workers can earn high rates for their services.
Variety: Gig work can provide opportunities to work on diverse projects and learn new skills.

Challenges:

Income Instability: Gig workers may face fluctuations in income due to inconsistent work flow.
Lack of Benefits: Gig workers typically do not receive benefits like health insurance or paid time off.
Tax Complexity: Gig workers are responsible for paying their own taxes and may need to navigate complex tax regulations.

Strategies for success in the gig economy include developing in-demand skills, building a strong professional network, and managing finances effectively.

9.3 The Role of Government Policies

Government policies will play a crucial role in shaping the future of middle income. Policies that promote wage growth, reduce income inequality, and ensure access to affordable education and healthcare can help strengthen the middle class.

Key policy areas:

Minimum Wage: Increasing the minimum wage can help low-wage workers earn a living wage.
Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC): Expanding the EITC can provide financial relief for low- and moderate-income workers.
Affordable Healthcare Act (ACA): Ensuring access to affordable healthcare can reduce financial burdens on middle-class families.
Education Funding: Increasing funding for public schools and financial aid programs can improve educational opportunities for all.

Advocating for policies that support the middle class can help create a more equitable and prosperous society.

9.4 Adapting to Changing Economic Realities

Adapting to changing economic realities requires a proactive approach to financial planning, skill development, and partnership building.

Key strategies for adapting:

Staying Informed: Keeping up with economic trends and industry developments.
Developing New Skills: Acquiring skills that are in demand in the job market.
Networking: Building relationships with other professionals in your field.
Seeking Mentorship: Learning from experienced professionals who can provide guidance and support.
Embracing Change: Being open to new ideas and adapting to changing circumstances.

By taking these steps, individuals and businesses can navigate the challenges and opportunities of the future and achieve long-term financial success.

10. FAQs About Middle Income

Understanding middle income involves addressing common questions and misconceptions. Here are some frequently asked questions to clarify this essential concept.

10.1 What is the exact income range for the middle class in the U.S.?

The middle-income range in the U.S. typically falls between two-thirds to double the national median income, adjusted for household size and cost of living. In 2022, this range was approximately $56,600 to $169,800 for a three-person household.

10.2 How does the cost of living affect middle-income status?

The cost of living significantly impacts middle-income status. The same income can have vastly different purchasing power depending on the location due to variations in housing, transportation, food, and healthcare costs.

10.3 What factors determine whether a household is considered middle income?

Factors include household income, size, geographic location, education level, occupation, and industry trends. These elements collectively determine a household’s classification within the income tiers.

10.4 How can I increase my chances of moving into the middle-income tier?

Strategies for upward mobility include investing in education and skill development, effective financial planning, seeking partnership opportunities, and considering entrepreneurship or small business ownership.

10.5 What are the challenges faced by the American middle class today?

Challenges include wage stagnation, income inequality, job displacement due to automation and globalization, and rising costs of education and healthcare.

10.6 How do government policies affect middle-income families?

Government policies related to taxation, social welfare programs, labor laws, and education funding can significantly impact the financial stability and opportunities available to middle-income families.

10.7 What is the role of partnerships in boosting middle-income growth?

Strategic partnerships can provide access to new markets, resources, and expertise, fostering business growth and increasing income for middle-income individuals and businesses.

10.8 How can I find the right partners to increase my income?

Strategies include networking events, online platforms like income-partners.net, industry associations, and referrals. Thorough due diligence and clear partnership agreements are essential for success.

10.9 What are the future trends that will impact middle income?

Future trends include the impact of automation and AI, the rise of the gig economy, and the role of government policies in shaping economic opportunities.

10.10 Where can I find more resources and support for middle-income growth?

Resources and support are available through financial advisors, career counselors, small business associations, and online platforms like income-partners.net, which provides information and connections to help you navigate the income landscape effectively.

Ready to take control of your financial future? Visit income-partners.net today to discover partnership opportunities, strategies for building successful relationships, and the resources you need to achieve your income goals. Don’t wait—start building your path to prosperity now.