I'm sorry, I don't buy that people are tied to the city due to their careers. That's why people commute
And there seems to come with that an assumption that if you don't work in a big city, then you don't have a worthwhile career. Careers are available everywhere - city dwelling lifestyles aren't, there's the difference - have it all and pay for it or have some of it and get more value for your dollar is what it boils down to I suppose.
I know people who drive an hour both ways every day for their career.