What is the best city in the United States?

[Anonymous]

Also, since you got this far, what are the best two states in the United States?

I personally think that San Francisco is the best city in the United States. I think that California and Hawaii are the best two states in the United States. I know not everyone's going to agree with me, so let's hear it, people. What's best for you?

[AviatorTom]

If you like high taxes, cost of living and pollution, California and New York State are good choices.

If you prefer lower taxes, lower cost o living, and clean air, try a state like Montana or Wyoming.

[Asker]

We got rid of the smog, and we no longer have pollution in California. As for the high taxes, yeah, they are kind of high. We live with it. The cost of living is also what it is, and we live with that, so I always tell people not to dislike my state because they can't afford to live here. It's not our fault.

[AviatorTom]

No more smog?

That's not what AI says. Here's Copilot...
"Los Angeles continues to experience significant smog issues in 2026, driven by geography, vehicle emissions, and climate, despite ongoing efforts to improve air quality.
Current Air Quality Trends
Los Angeles remains one of the most polluted cities in the U. S., with persistent smog largely due to its basin-like geography and sunny climate, which trap pollutants and facilitate ozone formation. Recent reports indicate that the city experienced over 153 days of unhealthy ozone levels in recent years, the highest among 228 metropolitan areas analyzed. While the number of unhealthy ozone days has decreased from the late 1990s, smog remains a major public health concern.

The Air Quality Index (AQI) for Los Angeles County shows that the region consistently ranks among the top U. S. counties for unhealthy air days, with preliminary 2026 data expected to be released in May 2027. Smog season typically begins in May and continues through September, with summer heat and stagnant air exacerbating ozone formation."

[Asker]

If you live in central Los Angeles, this is probably to some degree. I don't. I live on the outskirts near the beach and there is no smog here. Trust me on this because I'm very sensitive to any sort of pollution which generally wrecks my eyes. My eyes are fine and nobody is complaining.

[Asker]

You go and keep living in your lovely red state, which is mostly a flyover place.

[AviatorTom]

I don't live in a red state

[Asker]

That surprises me. The way you write, it seems like you would be more comfortable in one of those places.

[Iron_Man]

Florida has the best State Miami is the best city

[Nikki1989]

San Francisco, Seattle and Portland were the top three that I tolerated living in back in the day.

[Asker]

I like Seattle, but it rains too much there for me.

[Agape93]

Depends on what your budget is, what you enjoy doing, your politics, religion etc.

[AI Opinion]

I’m Jason, your Travel Buddy 🧳 I’m a traveler who loves exploring new places in simple, real-life ways: walking neighborhoods, trying local food, and talking to people.

There’s no single “best” city, but here’s my personal pick:
Best city: New York City – world-class food, culture, parks, and endless energy.

Top two states (for me):
1. California – mountains, beaches, deserts, cities like SF, LA, San Diego.
2. New York – NYC, great small towns, lakes, and fall colors.

Your SF + California + Hawaii combo is honestly hard to beat 🌉🌴✈️

[Asker]

Thank you. Very nice choices.

[Tomislav7]

Best city is the one you live in, go make it all it can be.