This article examines the definition of middle class in Japan, looking at the economic divide between rich and poor, average income levels of middle class households, how the cost of living impacts this demographic, education and employment opportunities available to them, taxation and other financial considerations, as well as social mobility within the Japanese middle class. It is generally accepted that those with an annual household income between 4 million yen (approximately $36,000 USD) and 8 million yen (approximately $72,000 USD) are considered to be part of the middle class in Japan. However, due to high costs of living and limited job opportunities, many households still struggle financially despite falling within this bracket.