I live in York and work in Leeds.

The reason for this is that York has a marginal higher cost of living mainly due to the size of the place, but salaries are pretty poor, and on average are much higher in leeds, which is why hundreds of us crawl down the A64 every morning to be able to afford a decent house etc.

If anything, your boss is talking nonsence, and I suggest you find a differnt employer (but don't try in York, as everyone seems to be pulling out and going elsewhere!!)

Probably doesn't help, but thought I'd put my two pennies in.

Duncs