The US pilots deserve as much as they can get, especially at the lower echelons. $450K does sound very high though, although I would not complain and if they can get more why not.
And yes, Dash and SAAB skippers should be closer to $200k as a minimum, not after all considered and working your ass off. The proof is in the pudding though, no one wants to fly for those companies, at least not for long and only as a stepping stone.
If you took CPI increases as a minimum then SAAB Captains should be on closer to $160k base and Dash Captains at least $180k. However that does not account for the lifestyle changes to these operations over the years, with more layovers and FRMS implementation. So the figure of around $200K is probably where they should be. Can't afford it? Well whats less affordable, paying pilots more so that you have flights, or not having any pilots and a lot of grounded aircraft.
The regionals have to make a big decision if they want to stay in business. Look at base salaries north of $200k for Captains AND 10-12 days off to attract/retain senior staff, or, shut the doors and go manage a fish & chip shop.