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In this specific example theres absolutely stopping guy 1 from moving to where guy 2 lives and enjoying the same quality of life.Ok, so take this example:
Guy 1: Works at McDonalds making $22/hr. Pays $2,500/month to rent a shitty apartment with 2 roommates in L.A. Drives a Kia Rio.
Guy 2: Works at McDonalds making $10/hr. Pays $800/month to rent a shitty apartment with 2 roommates in Harrisburg, PA. Drives a Kia Rio.
By your rationale, these two guys have completely different lifestyles because one lives in a high COLA area and the other doesn't. Right?
LA is more expensive because its a much more desirable place to live than nowhere PA. Better weather, access to much more appealing activities(beach, skiing, amusement parks, great food) etc. Nothing is free in this world and you pay for that with much higher property values and overall costs.