I removed the comp comment, as it seemed a bit crass. In any case, my experience doesn't echo that. My salary is almost 6x what it was 3 years ago when I worked

I removed the comp comment, as it seemed a bit crass. In any case, my experience doesn't echo that. My salary is almost 6x what it was 3 years ago when I worked 30 miles outside of London (as the crow flies) and my job is way less stressful now Before moving to London I had offers from 2 other companies both offering numbers close to what I was on previously. Moving to London was instantly 2x their best offer. Overall I think if you can get over the home ownership hurdle, the potential for future comfort in the city is way greater.