After 5 years working in NYC on business, my wife and I are thinking about leaving. Yes, it's expensive to live here, we knew that when we moved in but we really dont think it's a great place to raise children.

Anybody else thinking about leaving?

Move to San Diego. You will love it here. We lived in Chicago for 10 years, had a baby and then packed up for the warmer weather and more relaxed lifestyle. Less crime and homelessness.

I lived in NYC for a while and LOOOOOOVED it. I can't believe you are leaving willingly :)

It can be a bit overwhelming but to be honest, it was amazing and I hope to be back there early 2010.

I've been through San Diego and it looked quite nice as well. It depends on what you like AND hate about NY that should determine where you want to move to. Chicago is beautful as paulie123 mentioned, but we should maybe consider San Franciso. Great place to raise a family I think.

Where are you looking to move to? OS or are you going to stay in America. It really depends on your criteria - i.e. kids? business? climate? I've traveled a lot and lived in many places so I hope I can be of some help.