An interesting graph by NPR’s Planet Money.
http://www.npr.org/blogs/money/2014/05/20/313131559/how-far-your-paycheck-goes-in-356-u-s-cities
I’ve heard that Alberta is similar to New York City but with the “Canada” premium (extra 30%). Alternately one might argue Denver is a better comparison… but the idea comes across. The steepness of the line shows that even if more income is generated it doesn’t feel like it goes very far.