Last April I moved from Norfolk, VA, where I found prices pretty sane, to the nitoriously HCOL Seattle, WA. What I've noticed is that I have to hack more things in Seattle to remain at the same price point as Norfolk.
- I was intending to buy a house in Seattle. I had 70k for a downpayment, and was authorized for a 350k loan. I got priced out of the market immediately. Houses are crazy here, and the available stock is quite low. I'm still half-heatedly searching because lower price points do pop up, but not frequently.
- In Norfolk I went to a personal trainer for $35 per half hour, which included unlimited membership at a boutique gym. Every place I've checked in Seattle forces a full hour, and the lowest price I've found is $85. Membership not included. I've developed my own fitness routine instead, but I miss the camaraderie
- Food from grocery stores is more expensive in Seattle. In Norfolk I could walk into the fancy grocery store and find prices I agreed with. To keep my grocery costs comparable in Seattle I have to research venues, and pay sharp attention to discounts. If I'd been this careful in Norfolk, I would have experienced a rise in food prices.
- Gas is depressingly expensive in Seattle. The public transportation in Seattle is much better than Norfolk, but a pass costs around $100/month. I find that pretty hefty.
- Electricity is actually much cheaper in Seattle. Whoop!
- Formal entertainment is slightly more expensive in Seattle, generally because most venues don't have a military discount. It's ubiqutous in Norfolk.
ETA: To wrap up my point, I think HCOL requires more badassing, but you can find ways to keep your bottom line from rising too aggressively.
HCOL can be more than just the cost of a house or rent. Food and just about everything can cost more in some HCOL areas. Groceries are generally quite expensive in Hawaii or Alaska.
Walmart
Seattle, Washington
Hey Kaplin261, where did you find the quote? I think you've been mislead, there are no Wal-Mart's in Seattle. Though there is one in Bellevue and Lynwood, which are at similar price points as Seattle. Maybe you interpolated across?