[axod]

There's far better places to startup than the valley, there always have been though. That's nothing new.

Probably if you're into the whole 'build to get acquired' thing, then it's an advantage, but if you're in it to build a profitable company then I'd say the valley puts you at a disadvantage. High cost of living, no public health care, not to mention all the software patent DMCA sue everyone legal risks.