It's not all high cost in the Bay Area

One of the major gripes people have about the Bay Area is the cost of living. It's definitely higher for some things than the other cities I've lived in (Denver, CO - Columbus, OH). For example, I pay about $150/month more for an apartment that's just a tad bigger than my place in Denver and that I have a housemate for (instead of living solo).

On the other hand, certain things are undeniably cheaper.

The cost of fresh produce for one. For commercial produce, the cost of transportation to get things to the Rockies really added up. Quick example, conventional tomatoes out here were last seen at 50 cents/pound as opposed to over $1.50 in Colorado.

It's a good deal for organics from the farmers markets too, though. Organic heirloom tomatoes at a Colorado farmer's market will likely set you back $5/pound. This morning, I bought a pound of organic heirlooms for $2 at the Noe Valley Farmer's market.

Transportation is less of an issue because both farm markets draw local vendors. In California, there's more competition on the supply side, which means better pricing.

Something else I'm amazed by is the value at my climbing gym. I joined the Mission Cliffs rock gym (about a mile from my place) in June, when the $100 initiation fee was being waved. My monthly dues are just $65. This includes:

• Unlimited Climbing in a gorgeously spacious gym
  
• Unlimited Fitness Classes (Yoga, Spinning, Cardio-boxing) offered daily
• 1 Guest Pass
• Full weight room, treadmills and ellipticals (think boutique gym as opposed to Holiday Inn)
• Sauna
• Lockeroom, showers with towel service
• Use of the company's four other rock gyms in the Bay Area
  

Contrast this with the last place I had a membership in Colorado, Rock'n and Jam'n - $70 for a "primetime" membership. This includes a gym about 1/2 the size, minimal weight equipment, no fitness classes, etc.