I think all this thread really proves is that everyone has a different viewpoint about where they choose to live.
There are quite a few places we would “never live,” but that’s just our preference. To each his or her own.
We’ve been very happy in RSF for many years, and can easily afford our lifestyle, especially since we paid less for our large home and acreage 20+ years ago, and we have never been overextended in our lives.
We raised our family the way we wanted to, and gave our kids a great education and lifestyle. They’ve turned out well, so it seems we made good choices, as far as our family was concerned.
IMO, the bottom line is that life is short, so wherever you live–enjoy yourself!