I'm not being snotty, like I said I am embarrassed by how much more I make living here in DC.
And no, it is not just because of the cost of living. That is part of it, but it is also because we have a very large client base here and many of them are in professional and government positions, so they require very good interpreters. I think it is mainly because interpreters here are seen as a valued resource, while other areas may not realize just how important interpreters are. ALL interpreters deserve to make as much as we do, regardless of where they are, but I think DC realizes how important we are and pays accordingly, whereas other areas may not.
So you see, it is not just the cost of living. It's the culture of the region. Don't be so accusatory if you're going to be wrong.