A research study from Purdue University and the University of Virginia has sought to identify the optimal salary for happiness and contentment in life. By analyzing data from the Gallup World Poll, which included responses from over 1.7 million individuals across 164 countries, the researchers determined that an annual income of $95,000 in the U.S. is ideal for life satisfaction. However, for day-to-day happiness, a range between $60,000 and $75,000 suffices. Interestingly, earning beyond the optimal point can decrease life satisfaction due to heightened materialistic pursuits and social comparisons.
  

Key Points:

1. Optimal Salary for Happiness: A recent study identified the optimal annual salary for overall life satisfaction in the U.S. to be $95,000.

2. Day-to-Day Contentment: The researchers noted that for regular daily happiness, an income between $60,000 and $75,000 is adequate. This is close to the U.S. median household income of $61,372 in 2018.

3. Relative Increases: The happiness derived from salary increases is relative to one’s existing income. For instance, a $20,000 raise would have a more profound impact on someone earning $35,000 compared to someone earning $150,000.

4. Diminishing Returns: Earning more than the optimal amount can lead to decreased life satisfaction. This decrease is attributed to intensified materialistic desires and increased tendencies for social comparisons.

5. Money’s Role in Happiness: While money plays a significant role in an individual’s happiness, it is not the sole determinant. Personal and professional choices, among other factors, also greatly influence overall contentment. 

Source: https://www.valetmag.com/living/career/2019/how-much-you-need-to-make-to-be-happy-052419.php