[throwthisawayt]

Ok maybe I should clarify that I’m originally from Texas and work in sf so I have some pretty direct experience and know that there is a big economic difference and the salary differential is not that small.

I completely agree that there is way more to life than economics, but for the young single engineer the business case for Bay Area (and even more Seattle) is very compelling.

To put it in perspective, when I compare myself to a friend with similar skills my net worth is already 2x greater.

[speedplane]

I'm sure there are folks with similar skills as you that started in Seattle, moved to Texas, and have 2x your own net worth.

Some people choose to make less to lead a different lifestyle, and would happily give up that 2x net worth to do so.