standard of living

noun

1. a grade or level of subsistence and comfort in everyday life enjoyed by a community, class, or individual:

   The well-educated generally have a high standard of living.

standard of living

noun

1. a level of subsistence or material welfare of a community, class, or person

standard of living

1. A term describing the amount of goods and services that an average family or individual views as necessary.

Word History and Origins

Origin of standard of living¹

First recorded in 1900–05

Example Sentences

Americans would never change their habits of consumption, he asserted, but new immigrants would only consume more, rising to this country’s standard of living and expanding the net environmental burden on the world.

From Salon

We are facing an authoritarian regime that will do everything in its power to destroy liberal democracy, turn the U.S. into a kleptocratic entity and burn down our economy and standard of living.

From Salon

"That it can deliver the basic belief that the next generation can and should aspire to a higher standard of living and a better quality of life than that which has gone before."

From BBC

Her government is credited with economic reforms that have improved the standard of living for many in Bangladesh.

From BBC

“We are not paying people a minimum wage that allows a minimum standard of living.”

From Salon