The pay cut is exactly what we are talking about. Microsoft is able to pay inferior salaries because of the lower costs of living. So which part are you disagreeing with?
People in Seattle are no more richer or "happy" (your exact words I was replying to) vs. in SF is my point. Sure a home costs a little less but you're also paid less in Seattle. It's not a dramatic 2x difference in costs (again your words).
