In the overseas departments, more frequent dissatisfaction with material conditions reduces life satisfaction

In 2018, people aged 16 or over living in historic overseas departments (Guadeloupe, Martinique, French Guiana and La Réunion) said they were less often satisfied with the life they currently lead than those in mainland France. The inhabitants of La Reunion expressed a higher degree of satisfaction than in the other overseas departments. In all territories, the level of satisfaction with life depended above all on one's assessment of one's financial situation and housing conditions. Lower satisfaction with these elements in the overseas departments partly explained the difference with the metropolis. Regardless of material conditions, satisfaction with leisure activities and personal relationships also contributed to well-being. The perceived state of health, except if it is very poor, had a lower impact on overall satisfaction.