Assets and disposable income are distributed unevenly in Germany, however. At the top of the income pyramid are the self-employed, followed by civil servants, salaried employees and retirees. Whereas the social structure in the new federal states is still being shaped, a process has taken place within the old states which has led to an approximation of the standard of living of most social groups. A very broad middle class has emerged. In many cases this high standard of living is attained and maintained because both husband and wife have a job. The vast majority of the working population live entirely or predominantly from the fruits of their labor; only a small minority tan live on their assets.