> I looks like they rejected you after interview so you didn't even go to the part where you receive an offer and reject it for being too low so the part about "cheap" engineers is just a cheap shot.
Even more so, if they were worried about cheap engineers, I assure you that they wouldn't be spending money to fly you around the country, buying you flights and meals (and often drinks and hotels and taxi/uber rides and sending you away with swag). The companies you listed pay the best amongst those in SV. I don't think price was the issue
Not sure if that logic holds. Seems like a viable strategy to show your best side while trying to lure a candidate. Once they are hired, they probably won't be showered with swag and limo rides anymore. In fact I would consider it a warning sign if too much fancy stuff is going on before the interview (even though I know Joel from FogCreek does it, whom I generally like).
Even more so, if they were worried about cheap engineers, I assure you that they wouldn't be spending money to fly you around the country, buying you flights and meals (and often drinks and hotels and taxi/uber rides and sending you away with swag). The companies you listed pay the best amongst those in SV. I don't think price was the issue