For certain values of "everybody." Lots of people have no desire to live in an expensive coastal city.

Of course, but the fact that they are so expensive is caused by the fact that so many people want to live there. It's the rising cost of living that provide a balance to that.

More specifically, everybody wants to live where the jobs are and the opportunity for career progression is.

For jobs, but also for many other things. It's where lots of things come together, lots of things happen. More restaurants, museums, night life, music venues, theatres, etc. Cities often have a long history, historical landmarks, etc.

I certainly wouldn't want to trade Amsterdam for the town I grew up in. Then again, my dad clearly disagrees. On the other hand, Amsterdam probably isn't quite as expensive as London, New York or San Francisco.

Well, not everybody -- I don't!