4 Cities to Move to for the Culture

People relocate for a variety of reasons, work needs, safety, access to better schools for their children. I relocated in my early 20s for one reason, to live in a culturally diverse city. Many young couples and singles dream of leaving the suburbs in favor of cities that offer local bars, live music and art galleries. If you want to live where things are happening, consider these four great U.S. cities.

Memphis, Tennessee

Travel and Leisure ranks Memphis, Tenn. number 1 for BBQ joints, but Memphis isn't just about pulled pork and fall-off-the-bone ribs, the city actually has a good amount of culture. Many famous blues joints and bars call Memphis home. young couples and single professionals who enjoy the music scene will love living near the downtown area, which has been home to some of the great blues and country music artists.

The downside - Memphis, Tenn. ranks low on the list for public transportation, cleanliness and safety. Residents do need their own car to get around in the city, especially in the suburban areas.

Austin, Texas

What culture junky wouldn't want to live in a city that celebrates Eeyore's birthday every year? Austin, Texas is jam packed with local restaurants, small bars, farmer's markets and parks. Austin is also home to the South by Southwest music festival and boasts live music events year round.

The downside - Austin, Texas ranks lower for public transportation than other comparable cities. Austin does have a public bus line and many neighborhoods are bike-friendly, but residents will need a car to reach different parts of town.

New Orleans, LA

Besides being the home of Mardi Gras, the birthplace of some of the greatest blues players in America and the stomping ground of many celebrities, New Orleans, LA has a surprising amount to offer its residents. New Orleans is a collective of several eclectic neighborhoods, offering local restaurants, shopping and bars. Singles will love the night life and leisurely pace of the city.

The downside - New Orleans, LA ranks low for cleanliness and safety. Being a short drive from the Gulf of Mexico, residents also face mandatory hurricane evacuations and higher insurance premiums than other areas of the country.

San Francisco, California

San Francisco, Cali. ranked two out of 10 for diversity in a poll by Travel and Leisure. The city boasts an impressive amount of ethnic restaurants, coffee shops, bar and clubs. San Francisco has mild year round temperatures, a beautiful skyline and historic homes. The city also has a highly functional public transportation system.

The downside - San Francisco, Cali. ranks low for peace and quiet in the residential areas. Many newcomers may find the price of buying houses, rental properties or even everyday living higher than they're used too in other areas of the U.S.

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