Sure you would if you're wanting the average median income for an area.
I never claimed to agree with this process, rather trying to provide a reason as to why some got the bump and some didn't....if you use the average median income you'll find a lot of similarities as far as who got the bump and who didn't. When using your method of cost of living, the numbers don't make sense.
The difference between me and you is I try to rationalize the situation and find the reason in order to find solutions, you just complain and play the victim card.