Determining the ideal salary needed for happiness can be a subjective matter as it varies based on individual preferences, lifestyle choices, and cost of living in different states. However, one common metric used to assess this is the concept of the "happiness income threshold," which is the income level beyond which additional income has diminishing returns on happiness.
Studies have attempted to estimate the happiness income threshold in various states, but it's important to note that these figures are generalizations and may not apply to every individual. Additionally, median income levels can also vary significantly within each state due to regional differences and other factors.
I can't provide the most current data on this topic, and I don't have browsing capabilities to access real-time data. However, you can find relevant information from various sources such as the U.S. Census Bureau, the Bureau of Labor Statistics, and research papers on happiness and income. These sources may offer insights into the median incomes in different states and studies that estimate happiness income thresholds.
To compare the ideal salaries needed for happiness to the median incomes in specific states, you would need to determine the estimated happiness income threshold for each state and then compare it to the median income data. If the median income is significantly below the happiness income threshold, it could indicate that people in that state might struggle to achieve happiness based solely on income.
Keep in mind that happiness is influenced by various factors beyond income, such as job satisfaction, social support, work-life balance, and overall well-being. So, it's essential to consider a holistic view of happiness when evaluating these comparisons.