In "major markets" (e.g., Dallas, Houston, Atl) you're still gonna pay top $ for elite providers...it's just that simple.

However, in slightly smaller cities there are outstanding providers, who, due to the local economy, simply cannot ask for the same donation. Nashville, TN is a perfect example....it's a good-sized city with professional sports, a thriving entertainment & tourist economy, and, a number of major corporations that call it home.

However, because it isn't perceived as a so-called "major city," donations tend to be lower. The same could be said of Charlotte, NC, San Antonio, etc etc.