True. But Toronto is pretty bad too. And we generally don't have the high levels of stock compensation. That looks like it could make a huge difference.

Yes, but if you are capable of getting to senior levels at Google, COL in the Bay area is much less of a concern.

It doesn't only show Bay Area numbers, though, but also e.g. Seattle, where the prices (while still high) are far lower - especially in more remote places that still have a decent commute to tech campuses in Redmond, Kirkland and Bellevue.

worth noting that homes are expensive because compensation is high, not the other way around.

expensive housing does bring up low wages, but does not increase top level wages.

while savings rate stays the same despite CoL, total savings increases.

all else being equal, living in the bay is worth it despite the CoL for most developers