Phoenix Ranked #5 Best place to live - who's #1 ?

I had to wait until mid-Spetember (now that we average less than 100 degrees - finally) ...

to share this story Phoenix ranked #5 for " America's Best Cities for the Outdoors "

The report looked at factors such spending per resident, parkland, city land, recreation index, sunny days, rain and air quality.

I have to believe that Phoenix #5 ranking could (in thoery) fluctuate 5 spots on the list depending on time of year.

I have lived in a variety of places including Japan, Chicago, New York, Boston, L.A. (Santa Monica) and Fountain Hills - Scottsdale. ...

I have to say that Arizona , not just because its my home now is my favorite place to live.

Here are the Reasons why

• Sun shine 85% of the days and an average of less than 30 days with any rain at all
• Real Estate Affordability for a resort destination is unmatched for price , availability, quality communities and taxes.
• Location - we are short flights from California, Las Vegas, and most of the Midwest. Yes, the east coast is 5 hours by plane, but who cares, everyone comes to visit us :)
• Recreation - golf, golf, golf, horse riding, boating, fishing, hunting, dining, shopping, resorts and spas, co-ed and amateur sports leagues, parks, parks, parks, ATV trails, hiking, biking, all virtually 365 days a year. (OK, we are missing the ocean)

Granted, I am a die-hard Phoenician, an Arizonan.

However, don't get me wrong I love the West Coast Beaches and the Ocean.

I was raised in the big Cities of the East Coast where many of my close friends live and love to go back. I visit my mother in Florida as often as she can take and spend much of my vacation time in Vancouver and Montreal.

To stimulate a lively discussion (debate??) ....

I am asking the the highly respected professionals from their respective cities to state their case for #1.

• San Francisco -- Ranked #1
• San Diego -- Ranked #2
• San Jose, CA --Ranked #3
• Jacksonville, FL - Ranked #4
• Tampa, FL   -- Ranked #5 (Tied with Phoenix)
• Phoenix (Tempe) is Ranked # 5
• Minneapolis (Twin cities) is Ranked #6
• Las Vegas  is Ranked #7
• Austin, TX --  is Ranked #8
• Virginia Beach --  Ranked #9
• Seattle -- Ranked #10

thanks everyone for contributing your thoughts and comments and your argument why people should live (and buy real estate) in your little slice of heaven.