OK, I actually went and attempted to make a poll. My first, and it has somehow turned my site green but I have decided that this is a good thing.
Delicious! | 
Stumble It! | 
Slashdot It!Well I went with Paris but that's only because "Michele's house" wasn't on the poll.
I'm sure you're getting sick of these Move To The Twin Cities comments - but I have one last (maybe) thing to add - WE are totally diverse here - - really, really diverse! I promise!!!
I guess we are missing the point of low-cost areas, since so many of us picked Paris : )
I haven't been to any of those areas, but I think I'd say Portland because its close to California and I love it. But doesn't it not snow much in Portland?
Portland is my hometown, so I will admit that bias. It's a beautiful city where the ocean, the mountains, and the desert are just 1-2 hours away. The environment is priority, bike lanes are everywhere, public transportation is accessible, great restaurants are just around the corner, and just because a woman has short hair doesn't automatically mean she's a lesbian.
That said...I also know its limitations.
1. "I see white people" is a definite truth there.
2. A few years ago, the public schools had to close a month early because the asshole voters couldn't pass a property tax raise.
3. Portland has become a city of rich white couples with no children. Schools are less and less of a priority to the citizens at large, unless you live in the horrid suburbs.
I'd vote Denver, except it defeats your low cost of living goal. So I picked a different one.
They are all awesome places, though, and each one distinct. I envy you the scouting trips!
I love Minneapolis. I think it's beautiful and charming and if you can stand the cold (I love the cold:)) I would totally move there.
