I do agree that the quality of rackets is no longer there anymore. But the average guy is still bookings and shylocking (something that street gangs do not do, and do not even know how to do). Some may sell drugs (but anyone with half a brain is not selling dime bags or $50 bags of coke). They sell more volume than that and on a higher level. Some are still involved in labor unions or related construction or labor schemes (again something that NO street gang even understands the complexity of, or is even exposed to). Many own solid legit businesses in the "main stream" of commerce (something that eludes 99% of street gang members who are lucky if they own a car). etc., etc.

Even the average (moderately successful) knockaround guy most likely owns a small home, or leases a decently nice apartment. He lives a much better lifestyle than a street thug who shares a 'crib' with 12 other street urchins. etc, etc.

How many gangbangers have stable homes with a wife and children waiting for them with dinner on the table?? Not many I assure you. Now compare that with even a lowly associate. The level of stability (even for the most unstable of mob guys) is still heads and shoulders above that of a ghetto gangbanger.

Why are we even debating this point? It isn't a hidden fact is it?