There is another point I missed -- NOT accepting market wages can carry real consequences. In the tech-heavy markets like NY and SF, home prices closely track

There is another point I missed -- NOT accepting market wages can carry real consequences. In the tech-heavy markets like NY and SF, home prices closely track a constant multiple of market wages overall (tech and non-tech.) As market wages go up, so do home prices. People are often pushed to their breaking points in terms of what % of their income they give up to a mortgage. These seem like silly details for those in their 20s. I had a roommate. Having a roommate doesnt really work when you are married with children. You start competing with your peers for homes. Making less money than your peers puts you at a disadvantage. I was pretty lax on salary when I was young, optimizing on growth and experience over salary. That was a good decision. In my late 30s now, i negotiate to get market rate. Not doing so translates into serious consequences for me and my family. So to answer the parent's post -- absolutely...if the company next door is paying more, i'd work there all else being equal. Also, dont forget medical expenses. Once you have a family, you eat through those deductibles like crazy. One complicated pregnancy will set you back $20k+ depending on your health plan. At that point, some prospective employer's ROI is of little consequence to your very immediate needs like co-pays and the collection notices which roll in daily.