I don't think people feel like they have to make a lot of money.
I think they seek jobs and places to live that give them the maximum overall benefit. I currently live in Seattle, which is quite expensive.
If there was another city like Seattle with the same schools, healthcare, climate, and culture, but cheaper housing, I'd move there as long as the salaries there weren't so much lower that it more than canceled out the benefit of cheaper housing.
The problem in the US is that even though some cities are quite expensive, they are still overall the most economical choice for people who can get good jobs in those cities. The increased pay more than makes up for the higher prices.
I think they seek jobs and places to live that give them the maximum overall benefit. I currently live in Seattle, which is quite expensive.
If there was another city like Seattle with the same schools, healthcare, climate, and culture, but cheaper housing, I'd move there as long as the salaries there weren't so much lower that it more than canceled out the benefit of cheaper housing.
The problem in the US is that even though some cities are quite expensive, they are still overall the most economical choice for people who can get good jobs in those cities. The increased pay more than makes up for the higher prices.