Closing the gap—or widening it?
The U.S. faces a paradox: record corporate profits alongside rising wealth inequality. Median real wages are finally climbing, yet asset ownership remains concentrated. Technology and policy will determine whether convergence or divergence prevails.
Table 1. Income and Wealth Distribution
| Metric | 2010 | 2020 | 2025 (f) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Top 10% Share of Income (%) | 45 | 48 | 47 |
| Median Household Income ($) | 55,300 | 70,800 | 75,200 |
| Gini Coefficient | 0.46 | 0.48 | 0.47 |
Sources: Census CPS; Fed SCF.
Table 2. Technology Adoption and Access Gaps
| Household Category | Broadband Access (%) | AI Tool Usage (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Top Income Quartile | 98 | 47 |
| Middle Quartile | 90 | 29 |
| Bottom Quartile | 74 | 12 |
Sources: Pew Research 2025; Brookings Digital Divide Report.
Policy horizon
Wage compression, universal basic benefits, and skill subsidies may re-anchor middle-class stability. Without them, automation could amplify polarization.
Leadership insight
Businesses that democratize access—through affordable digital services, education platforms, and inclusive hiring—will define America’s next productivity-and-equity phase.