I worked in Olathe, Kansas for about eight years before moving to Portland, Oregon. I wouldn't personally move back, but I sure do miss the BBQ and significantly lower cost of living.
Assuming they would have kept their SF salaries - they would have felt like they got a pretty sweet raise. On the flip side, Kansas doesn't offer anywhere near the culture or available activities.
They way they choose to handle this was pretty cool though, good for them!
I like the concept btw...