Not sure they do. Average American (67%) doesn’t even hold a passport, hasn’t stuck his nose outside the US (plenty of people from SD haven’t even been to Mexico). Working hours are long for an industrialized country, especially in white-collar jobs. Vacation time is sparse. Commutes tend to be long and by car.
Paranoia is rampant, causing people to feel the need to support “law and order” candidates (nearly 1% incarceration rate, baby!) and buy firearms for “protection.” Compared to Ukraine or Guatamala, the US may be a paradise. Compared to other wealthy, democratic countries, don’t bet your house.
If “life” consists of square footage of floor space, number of electronic toys, Xanax consumed, and number of cars per capita, I’ll concede.