How Much Do You Need To Make To Be Happy In Boise?

Does more money equal more happiness? According to these recent articles, there is a correlation. This is how much they say you need to make in Boise to be "happy."

$97,335

That's the amount that gobankingrates.com says you need to bring in to be content and "happy" living in the Treasure Valley.

I know money doesn't directly bring happiness, but I've been on both sides of the table. When I was making more money than I am now I filled my life with things that I thought would make me happy. I bought new clothes, new furniture, new perfume. I'm not going to lie, it was fun, but I don't think I was happier. I was in a marriage that was failing. Although money was not my top concern, I still had plenty of other worries in life.

Since going through my divorce, I have a lot less disposable income. I live paycheck to paycheck all the way and I worry about money all the time. It's not fun. I long for a day when money or the lack of it does not consume my thoughts. I would say I live a pretty average lifestyle, and with the increased cost of cars, homes, and overall living I can't argue with that number. I've often said that in our society today you need to make about six-figures to not half to worry about money, comfortably pay your bills, save for retirement, and take a couple of vacations a year.

According to ZipRecruiter, the average salary in Idaho is $66,687, well below the "happy" amount.

Msn.com did a study showing how much you need to make to be happy in the larger cities around the country, and the findings were pretty shocking to me.

San Francisco:

Boston: $190,680

Chicago: $123, 690

Denver: $151, 410

San Francisco: $319, 935

Pretty much every city on their list said you had to make six-figures to be "happy" living there. What are your thoughts? Does money buy happiness? Do you need to make six-figures these days to be happy?