CEP wellbeing coefficient database
David Frayman, Christian Krekel, Richard Layard, Sara MacLennan, Isaac Parkes and Janey Tietz
Wellbeing cost-benefit analysis requires credible estimates of how much specific life circumstances change subjective wellbeing. This paper documents and contextualises a compendium of 123 such estimates, drawn from 19 domains of life and standardised, wherever possible, onto a common 0 - 10 life-satisfaction scale. Each estimate is rated for causal credibility using the Maryland Scientific Methods Scale, recorded alongside the identification strategy, the controls included, evidence on adaptation, and the full reference. The compendium is intended as a practical resource for analysts conducting WELLBY-based appraisal and social value measurement, and as a map of where the evidence is strong and where it is thin. The full dataset is provided as an accompanying spreadsheet.
22 July 2026 Paper Number CEPOP75