Metro regions Median home Price
Dallas $ 147,600
Atlanta $ 167,200
Philadelphia $ 215,300
Chicago $ 263,700
Miami $ 371,100
Boston $ 414,000
Greater Washington $ 424,700
New York $ 446,500
Los Angeles $ 529,000
San Francisco $ 715,700

Source: National Association of REALTORS

Now, Greater Washington region (DC) has higher income than Bay area, but only 60% of Bay area's home price. Boston has 80% of Bay area income, but enjoy only 58% of Bay area home price. From pure math point of view, Greater Washington (DC) region enjoys the highest quality of life because people make more money yet spend less on housing relatively speaking. The Gap is highest. From investment point of view, DC area will have the highest potential of investment return due to the same high income, moderate home price logic.