In the northeast there are many sizable cities close together that can host bands with older venues that can be rented cheaper. In LA you have a large mass of

In the northeast there are many sizable cities close together that can host bands with older venues that can be rented cheaper. In LA you have a large mass of people all wanting to see your show in one location so you charge more but transportation costs to and from the next venue and venue costs are more. I've never paid more than $40 for a show in the east.