USA is a hard one to compare remuneration wise. You’ve got loco’s over there that pay more than the likes of Delta. Southwest has always paid a premium vs the competitors. But yes living is cheaper. Considerably. $hithole to live though.
Virgin America paid much less during its founding years just like many startups. Go back to Tiger Australia startup. Very similar low comparable salaries compared to the competitor. Eventually they caught up and were a quarter ahead of the competition. Sadly then it was goodnight Irene.
Pay has come a very long way over there compared to 10-15 years ago. Remember Skybus? Paid its Airbus drivers 65k/100k. Cabin Crew $9 an hour.