You make it sound like he doesn't have a choice in the matter, which is extremely unlikely and also very sad.
There are many factors at play in such decisions. "Having a choice" is something you do not always have depending on personal circumstances.
We would be well served by demonstrating compassion for others -- it's not like a majority of people can simply jump on their fixie with their Manhattan Portage bag and just enjoy a 5 minute ride to a DUMBO loft office.