Cities are more expensive than small town, and wages go up. Software is a lot more profitable per capita, and thus give higher wages. Then again, there is the startup problem you mention.

I am in favor of a point based system, over the mess we have now, but a trivial.implementation could do more harm than good.

Companies should have to make clear distinction between contracting jobs and full time positions. Salaries should be normalized by COL/Taxes. My unpopular opinion, is that there should be standardized testing (or reuse GRE, TOEFL). In my experience, it id a good proxy for a person's capabilities. Points on education attaintment are obvious, but they should also take into account the country where they received their education, the course itself and the standing of the university. ( in broad strokes like R1,R2)

I am strongly in favor of allowing easier Visa transfer . Should stop any Corp. from underpaying an immigrant, because they know the employee is stuck with them.