I don’t believe the status quo can continue for much longer. Leaving for Lakewood, Toms River, Jackson, or anywhere else can help somewhat. In general the costs of being frum and keeping up with the frum-Jones’ is getting out of control. If people can handle EY, it’s wonderful. There is a huge culture and standard of living difference. If they move to the “Americanized” areas, where they will likely encounter much of the same as where they left from.
A side observation is the size and frequency of simchas. As the community grows B”H, simchas are becoming much larger and people feel obligated to invite an ever-extending circle of people. Many people are “obligated” to attend several simchas that they really would rather not. Some pop in and out just to say Mazel Tov and be “yoitze”. I’m not sure how this can be fixed. Takanos are not going to help outside of communities that don’t obey a central authority.
End of rant (for now)