I would argue that it's objectively cheaper to live in the suburbs. And I can assert with confidence that $100/mo in HOA fees provides walkable parks, trails, pools, gyms, tennis courts, basketball courts, etc. I vote on the financial management of all these things so I can be sure they are provided by that amount of money, objectively. Major builders do suburbs like this one across the country. And they make a killing managing them too.

Where are you? SF? SD? NY? Miami? You're paying a premium for the right to brag about it. Not for the amenities.