I think about this a lot too. The problem is, I totally agree with the sentiment that HCOL areas are HC for a reason. Aside from jobs, we live in an area that's extremely safe, with great restaurants, grocery options, farmers markets, multiple parks, great schools, etc etc within a 5-10 minute walking radius. People pay more to live here because of all the amenities it has to offer. When we do decide to make a move, I could equally see us renting in this same neighbourhood, or if we can find something similar in a lower COLA (suitable to car free living, with everything we need within walking distance) then I might move there, but it sounds like a tall order.