<p>$90,000 per year is still a pretty comfortable income in the Silicon Valley area (but not necessarily a realistic expectation for a new graduate, even in CS). On the other hand, some people are careless enough with their spending habits that no amount of income or wealth will be enough (see [Recession</a> or no recession, many NFL, NBA and Major League - 03.23.09 - SI Vault](<a href=“http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/vault/article/magazine/MAG1153364]Recession”>http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/vault/article/magazine/MAG1153364) ).</p>
<p>There is a definite local bias in any area, because (a) convenience of recruiting at local schools, and (b) many people want to work in the same area that they grew up or attended school. Yes, the local schools to Silicon Valley include Stanford and Berkeley, but there are many alumni from less known (outside the area) local schools like SJSU, UCD, UCSC, and SCU working in the area.</p>
<p>Also, many relocate after some years of experience elsewhere.</p>