> New York does have a great arts scene; but unless you're an artist, it'll always be peripheral to your day to day life.

This just isn't true. I know a number of people who work full-time in tech and are deeply integrated into various New York art scenes.

re: New York's awful quality of life compared to other cities, I completely agree. I can't blame anyone for wanting to live in a beautiful place with good weather and a more relaxed pace of life.