I sure hope I have a big exit sometime before 60 (20 years from now), because the cost of living in the Bay Area is crazy. It would be awful to work as a "well paid" (but most of it goes to living expenses and raising kids) software engineer for many years, and then need to retire in some rural area on social security, with bare minimum quality of life...
Rural area isn't bad if you find the right place, hobbies and a proper house. Lots of opportunities for outdoor activities, such as gardening and trekking, which also help keep you healthy.
Bay Area life is hardly necessary and shouldn’t be taken as a given. You’re making an active decision to take the gamble on earning a lot on paper but being in a super HCOL area. I earn a comfortable amount and am likely going to retire comfortably, though I certainly earn less than you. You’ve decided to take the risk. Own it or change.
I'm not really sure there are other good options. Sure, high cost of living, but high income. Moving would reduce both, and in any case the different in savings would be insignificant compared to inherited assets.
