>Whatever anyone (or any internet program) says about the NYC cost of living, it's worth remembering that most New Yorkers (not necessarily programmers) get by on average incomes not much higher than other parts of the country. I don't know what the average is, but I'm quite sure it isn't that big.

I expected that - but then, they lived there forever and know the ropes. I figure any newcomer would have to pay a lot just to learn how are things done over there. Sort of tuition fee.

>Working class New Yorkers who want a decent education for their children often send them to Catholic School, which is not that expensive.

Would you be disappointed if this failed to cause the expected reaction from my side? :)

>If they let you telecommute, I suppose you will do that. Make sure you agree on who pays for hotel rooms when you visit. Those are expensive.

That's the deal finally, and the negotiations took two weeks. Still need to iron a few wrinkles, but generally it'll be a telecommute with visits. And you may be surprised once you see who I'll be working with :).