I believe happiness is an emotional response that is (like most emotions) untrustworthy and fleeting. But, as far as I am concerned I think I would not consider myself "happy" or "unhappy". I trend instead toward variants of content and discontent.
We are very different. For example:
"I am happy because I am safe, have a roof over my head, am not in any serious pain and don't have to fight for my survival."
When the above is my condition I grow lazy, complacent, apathetic, weak and slow, and I lose my edge/instincts become dulled. Thus, I am a chore to be around and I am discontent - "unhappy".
In contrast:
"How can someone who lives in the wilderness, is unsafe nearly 24 hours a day and has to deal with hunger and pain be happy? is it possible to be happy without enough money to have safety, enough food/water and some level of comfort?"
When the above is my lot I am sharp, focused, intensely interested and alert to the minute happenings around me (even more so than usual), I return to my peak mental and physical condition with ease as apposed to fighting to maintain them. I enjoy the challenges and puzzles to overcome and in general I am at peace, in my element and content - "happy".
A few side notes for clarity:
The wilderness is a sanctuary to those who understand it, not a source of fear and insecurity. There are times where safety is less than ideal but far fewer than when we are in any given city. Hunger and pain are transient and only serve to remind us that our bodies are leaving the homeostatic happy place and we should do something to return them there.
Most importantly, the premise that money = safety is patently false. Money can buy you bigger, better blinders but safety it cannot purchase (unless you are renting the time and skills of those who have understanding and preparedness to deal with your safekeeping). Only understanding and preparation can make one safer, some of which requires some money but most of which is mental. Keep in mind, experts have agreed that every major city is but 4 meals away from utter collapse if the supply lines, etc. failed. Can you survive when the grocery stores are empty, travel is unsafe, and there is no running water, sewage, electricity?