What matters more to you - the place you live, or that place's price?

Almost a year and a half ago, I moved from Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, to Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.  Despite the fact that I pay three times as much to rent an apartment here, I would never go back to Winnipeg - the coldest city on earth, when population size is measured against average temperatures. 

-50 degrees for months on end, and a two month summer that can be very hot or very not, versus rare winter snowfalls, and flowers blooming from March until November - I will not sacrifice my environment, that I step outside into everyday, for the ridiculous housing costs one must pay to live in Vancouver.  I realize the madness of paying $1450 rather than $500 (ouch), but minus fifty degrees?  I say more insane!

I've had interesting discussions with bloggers, friends, and family on the topic, but not enough - please, contribute to the discussion - I want to hear many more opinions on this one!  Cheers!