I don't spend anywhere CLOSE to $2000/mo on rent, and I live in a pretty nice place in the middle of SF.

That's really what I'm getting at: if you're single and don't have a family, and you're happy with roommates and not living in a palace, then you can enjoy SF and not only not go broke, but you might save a penny or two.

Now if your life situation is such that the whole "single and don't have a family" thing doesn't apply, well then it... doesn't apply :)

In my opinion, your argument is very much valid if you want to raise a family or you just prefer to have your own place. Unless you make a lot of money, you're probably better off doing that elsewhere.