I see many variables. I suspect, as you hint at, this is hugely a matter of individual preference. I am sure location is a major issue as well. At one time I figured that in the Midwest I would want 20 acres if I was going to raise livestock with the goal of self-sufficiency. I have never owned 20 acres … nor I have I been self sufficient.
Of course, your question is about the good life. For many, including myself, it is different than being self sufficient. I do like having 11 acres. It is not to raise food on….but it is to provide a buffer between my neighbors and me. So for me, 10 acres is critical for my personal satisfaction. It also contains a large pond that the Wood Ducks seem to appreciate, as do the Herons and migrating geese. This has nothing to do with self-sufficiency but much to do with the good life.
As I age, I am moving more toward container gardening near my back deck that I appreciate. I am also experimenting with Paul’s food pump concept. I still have a large garden, but I plant crops that need less attention there. It is nice to have those vegetables, but I doubt if I need them for the good life. I recently opened up a jar of 2016 tomatoes from my basement. I know I posted on Permies that I have at least a years supply of food in the house. I suspect I it goes well beyond that.
