Wow Grace, I did not realize there were so many of us in similar situations!! I myself finally decided to move to Canada after living in the US for the last 22 years.
After USCIS has "screwed me around" for all of this time, I finally decided enough is enough! Although they have always renewed my work authorization and I have had no problem to work here, it is like being trapped in a large jail (my green card case has been infinitely in "pending" status, and it still is). For example I haven't seen my parents in 13 years, when THEY came to the US to visit me because I could not leave the borders.
And also at one point would you believe USCIS sent my file by mistake to archives and it sat there for almost 9 years collecting dust, and we had to file a lawsuit (called "man damus") to get them to continue processing? Sometimes we are a bit impatient with CIC processing, but when you consider how incompetent the USCIS is, it makes CIC look like a lightning-fast, super-efficient machine!!!! ;D After having spent $80,000+ cumulatively on my case, during my entire time here, and not seeing any light at the end of the tunnel, is what got me to finally apply to Canada!
After living here for so long I also share some of the same concerns you have, but then I realize you can't have it all. Cost of living in Canada I assume is definitely higher (everything from cell phone, car insurance <OUCH!!

>, and groceries) and salaries are definitely lower for professionals. But in the end it is DEFINITELY WORTH IT for the freedom!!!! and to be finally recognized as an integral part of the society you live in, without constantly living with the fear of them possibly "throwing you out" one day!!