Actually the minimum wage here is $12 per hour which is way better than $7.25 that it is in Utah. Most places don't pay that low anymore, but I know someone in Utah who started off at Walmart fairly recently at $9 per hour. (side note: I think minimum wage should be higher than $12 an hour, but that's irrelevant -- my point is wages are higher here than some places.)

I understand your concerns about gentrification, but this is capitalism. People who live in more expensive areas can't afford to NOT move. It's a vicious cycle.

At any rate, I don't plan to settle down here. I'm just here to visit, stimulate the local economy, and move on to the next affordable place.

Have a great day and stay warm