Not in SV, not even in the USA. So my experience is probably different. Whilst I was pulling down a good salary, invested in apartments to rent out. Banks are happy to lend if you have a steady income from a job. When I reached critical mass, sold them off one by one, quit the job and living a good life. Not IC level, but zero stress.

A good income is a hedonistic trap if you spend it on booze, cars, babes and parties.