text: nicest place tolive in the usa...pondering seattle or another friendly, laidback, artsy city not too expensive i need ideas to work with, california is eating me alive, and europe is too far,,,i need a decent place to live and a new outlook on the usa, not too big or small. a nice environment to work as an artist, answer seriously and compassionately. i'd appreciate it, thanks a bunch...happy new year seattle is not an option if finances are an issue...rent is higher than in san francisco, insurance premiums and auto registration are very high and the property, income and sales taxes are outrageous... have you contemplated oregon? grants pass, medford and eugene all meet the criteria of "another friendly, laidback, artsy city not too expensive" add to that the beautiful climate and utterly stunning scenery....property and income taxes are on the high side but oregon does not have sales tax, so it balances out, auto registration is a bit lower than in cali, and no smog certs required....socially, oregon is very diverse, so whatever your politics and interests, you'll be able to find like minded folks.