What? Half the programmers I know in NYC write PHP. The other half write a combo of Java/C#/Python. These aren't programmers working for startups - they are working for companies and the government.
PHP is used everywhere. Except maybe in SFO (and surrounding area).
I mean look at the job listings for NYC, DC, Miami, Baltimore, Louisville, etc, etc.
Look I know this board is focused on Silicon Valley, but it's a big world out there.
And even if they did what is wrong about choosing PHP?
I don't get the logic here.
Another thing is that, if it it worse for you, it is automatically worse for the client. I am not sure why it is so hard to see. if your tool is bad, then your work ll suffer, and thus the client. So it is worse for them also..