It's how Americans think life works (I've fallen victim to it as well).
it is how life works
money and happiness are correlated.
Having been covered a good deal of the wealth across my life, I disagree. (Although it is possible of course that I was just happier when I was younger—poverty being beside the point.)
it is well established that they are correlated.
that doesnt mean that wealth is the only factor of happiness, nor is it the strongest. but it is correlated.