Abstract: The emerging middle class represents China’s economic and social elite. This study examines its political, social, and cultural attributes. The middle class has not shown a strong predisposition to be a driving force in leading political and social changes, but is more concerned about social and economic issues that immediately affect its social and economic interests. The research also shows that there is not a vibrant civic life and associational life among the middle class citizens. Because of its increasing purchasing power, the middle-class is reshaping China’s urban consumer and popular culture. It asserts its economic and social status by conspicuous consumption in purchases of housing, home furnishing, art, and leisurely activities.