Socioeconomic status (SES)

Definition

Socioeconomic status (SES) is a measure of an individual's or family's economic and social position relative to others, based on income, education, and occupation. It plays a key role in determining access to resources and opportunities.

Related terms

Social stratification: The division of society into different categories, ranks, or layers based on attributes like wealth, power, and prestige.

Wealth disparity: The unequal distribution of assets among residents of an area or country which contributes to variations in their socioeconomic status.

Upward mobility: The ability for individuals or groups to improve their socioeconomic status within a society’s hierarchy through changes in income, education, or occupation