I'm sorry, you did say US metro, so let's reduce that number to tens of millions. You're talking about something different now, needs versus wants. People liv

I'm sorry, you did say US metro, so let's reduce that number to tens of millions. You're talking about something different now, needs versus wants. People live in cities for many reasons besides strict necessity. Quality of life, cultural events, diversity, ease of transportation, take your pick. Heck, there are plenty of developers who work in Silicon Valley but choose to live in SF. They could live closer to their jobs. Are they daft? Or do they value other things about urban life that make the extra rent and a longer commute worthwhile. Price is not the only consideration for where to live.