Your chances for attending college are much better if you are raised in a higher-income household, and that advantage has increased substantially since the 1980s. Another factor is geography. Some research indicates that economic prospects are better for those who grow up in neighborhoods with less income inequality, less concentrated poverty, and better performing schools.
Finally, across so many dimensions, we continue to see disparities in economic outcomes by race and ethnicity. These issues are crucial. Sound public policies can support families and businesses and help more Americans reach and remain in the middle class.