NYC requires trade-offs.
The first time I came out to visit NYC, I knew I wanted to live here. Here you'll find more action, ethnic diversity, opportunity and intellectual stimulation than any other place in the U.S.(the world?). Maybe I was just a sheltered kid, but in my personal experience, it seems people from NYC have much broader horizons in terms of what they consider possible to accomplish/do. Also, you've got models, musicians, fashonistas and "scenes" if you're into that (which can be fun). And the best beaches in the U.S. are in the Hamptons, according to a 2010 survey. I can't even imagine owning a car anymore -- you can get anywhere by public transportation.
OTOH, you have to be willing to pay for this (literally) and put up with crowds, rude people, no lawn, grime and graffiti (which I actually like), long waits, and small expensive apartments DEFINITELY.
To me, it's worth it. I understand it's not for everyone, though.
