we have generally higher wages and prices on the low end (that is, the rest of the population and high minimum wages), and comparatively lower wages compared

we have generally higher wages and prices on the low end (that is, the rest of the population and high minimum wages), and comparatively lower wages compared to the US coasts for tech/stem. That high minimal wage and remoteness affects the price of a lot of things. That being said, the original poster is a little bit off, as both Sydney and Melbourne have inner-city transport options and infrastructure that outcompete practically all American cities in that regard, and punches pretty damn well on a worldwide basis (behind only a few cities that are notable specifically because they are world leaders).