There is a real dichotomy between the families earning $104k and $272k, maybe even larger than the dichotomy between the families earning $104k and $30k. The $104k family can’t afford to spend $20k+/year on a private school for k-12. The $104k family isn’t going to be able to afford a house in the neighborhoods with the best public schools. The $104k family can’t spend $10k on a college consultant. The $104k family might be able to afford some spending on ECs, but not nearly as much as the $272k family. A 5-week lacrosse camp can run up to $7500.