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Unhappy Couple After an Argument in the Living Room at Home.

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In some states, you’re able to get by comfortably on a modest income.

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In others, you may need to earn a much higher salary to achieve a similar standard of living.

In this article, youll find out how six of themost affordable statescompare to those with higher happiness ratings.

Lets take a look at some alternative options for folks seeking a happier lifestyle.

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How Does Where You Live Affect Your Happiness?

This number would be higher for families.

GoBankingRates determined thecost of living in every statebased on housing, utilities, groceries and transportation.

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Below, youll find a breakdown of some of these states and their alternatives.

West Virginia had thelowest happiness quotientat 35.1, and Alabamas wasnt much higher at 40.8.

All six of these states hadmedian household incomesbetween $55,217-$64,035, below the national median.

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But they also had lower minimum salaries needed to achieve happiness.

This difference is a reflection of lower living costs than in more expensive states.

While a highermedian household incomehas something to do with it, its not the only factor.

Happiness doesnt always come at a premium.

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