I like going seeing live music, going to shows has been a hobby of mine since high school. Not going to see many decent bands making tour stops in Iowa, Nebraska, South Dakota, or wherever. Finding a PP gig in a major metro area and an hour from the live music capital of the world was worth it to me, regardless of it paying less than a hospital job. If I end up not liking it or decide I'm not making enough, I can open my own in a few years. I also love Tex-Mex and BBQ and I'm in the hot spot of both. Choosing between Applebee's or Cracker Barrel to eat out doesn't appeal to me. I'm also driving distance away from friends and family. As
@Weirdy mentioned, family plays a part in these decisions as well.
My point was that money and "coveted MSG and ortho jobs" isn't the number one priority for all of us. There's more to the personal decision of where to work and live than wanting to be "an actor or influencer" versus being a podiatrist.