[nickpsecurity]

"I think the parent's point is that for a lot of people, especially those outside of SV, $20/h is more than a token payment."

In the Tri-State Area (AK/TN/MS), many people will say $20/hr is a great wage. Companies down here try to pay people minimum wage as much as possible. As close to it as possible anyway. We also have a low-enough cost of living that the ripoff isn't as obvious for skilled labor. They're ahead of most people they encounter even at $15/hr. Especially if it's steady work with benefits.

"but if we think to happiness instead of just money - it could well enable someone to make a living doing something that makes them happy."

Another great point. Some businesses even optimize for this.