Life at the bottom of the middle class is pretty much the same as life at the top.
Sure, at the top you get more, nicer perks.
More, nicer cars; more, nicer houses; more meals at nicer restaurants; etc..
That, undoubtedly, makes a difference, but is it that big?
When you reach the lower levels of the middle class, if you want to change your life you have only one option: make asymmetric bets.
Or else, you'll be stuck in the same life forever, only maybe with nicer things.