Researchers compared the happiest states, according to the World Happiness Report, to the average salary in each state in the hopes of seeing how much money it actually takes to be happy. In the top 25 happiest states, the average income ranged from $69,771.36 to $33,937.92. The happiest country in the world, according to the report, is Finland. In Helsinki, Finland’s capital, the average salary is £27,936 (about $36,000). So you don’t need to make a hefty income to have a happy life, but some studies show money could even get in the way of happiness. Developmental psychologist Robert Kenny, EdD, studied the aspirations, dilemmas, and personal philosophies of people worth $25 million or more, and found that having wealth is not always as easy as it sounds. “We received response after response on how money is not always helpful,” Kenny told the American Psychological Associations’ Monitor. “Some were concerned about motivation. They worried that if their children have enough money and don’t have to worry about covering the mortgage, what will motivate them? How will they lead meaningful lives? This is where the money might get in the way and make things confusing, not necessarily better.” Kenny’s biggest takeaway from the study was that “there seemed to be a trend that said you can’t buy your way out of the human condition.” If money doesn’t buy happiness, then maybe it’s time to relocate to a happier place. If you’re looking to pack your bags, keep reading to find out how much the average person makes in the happiest states. And for a different take on the age-old debate, Money Only Buys You Happiness Until You Earn This Much, Study Says. $38,604.96 And to find out where your money won’t go as far, This Is the State Where Your Money Is Worth the Least. $45,563.64 $51,339.24 $46,311.00 And if you’re trying to spend less, This Is How Much Money You’d Save If You Made Your Coffee Every Day. $55,006.32ae0fcc31ae342fd3a1346ebb1f342fcb $34,729.68 $44,538.24 And to see how your name might affect how much you’re making, You May Earn More Money If This Is Your Name, New Study Says. $40,410.36 $52,607.00 $39,920.04 And for more interesting information delivered straight to your inbox, sign up for our daily newsletter. $34,539.48 $41,204.00 $34,012.00 $68,053.20 $67,001.00 $60,460.20 $69,771.36 $52,811.40 $56,562.36 $51,508.68 $43,005.48 $49,446.84 $51,054.00 $55,306.00 $33,937.92
