As a native and of non-hipster descent, I chose Queens. I'm totally outside the city really but for what I pay, I am rich in brains. The bowling alley down the street is quite a bonus.
Lies. When I left the LES years ago (pre-gentrification), we took on JC which is sort of the same amount if not less but the amount of space you get is incredible. They've done a fine job of gentrifying JC since then as well. I go almost every weekend & it's like little NY outside NY. You have the shuttle PATH which is only $1.50 to get back to NYC in less than 15 minutes. If I go anywhere next, it's back there. It's beautiful and no you don't need a car. It's like being in the city.
NYC? What are you crazy? are you out of your mind!?! You'll get mugged! Stabbed! Beaten! RAPED! Charged an EXTRAORDINARY RENT!@#$ Oh wait, that's all going on in Philly anyway.... Do iT!
