So, I'm a Texan. I've been in Texas all my life. I'd like to take a break from school for a little bit and get a change of scenery. Here's what I would like in a place to live:

1) A good school
2) Cheap
3) If at all possible, I'd like to live some place where I won't need a car.
4) Gay friendly.

Any suggestions?

Cheap and gay friendly are a bit at odds with one another, insofar as places that are gay friendly tend to be largish, progressive cities, and largish progressive cities aren't cheap, by and large, but here are a few suggestions in my neck of the woods:

1. Iowa City, Iowa. It's relatively cheap and left, left, LEFT. University of Iowa is there, and that's an outstanding school. If you lean toward smaller schools, check out Grinnell College.

2. Madison, Wisconsin. University of Madison is HUGE, and it's a good town. Prepare to drink beer. Gay is still ok, though, so long as it's gay and beer-drinking! Heh heh. Kidding. Mainly.

3. Minneapolis, Minnesota. Several schools, one of which is the University of Minnesota. If you prefer smaller, Macalester and Carleton Colleges are both within striking distance, along with a bunch of other schools. Quite gay friendly. (Not compared to San Francisco, Los Angeles, or New York City, mind you, but compared to Pierre, South Dakota (pronounced "peer," btw? DEFINITELY!))

What's wrong with Austin, BTW? Or is that where you're trying to get away from?

Sandy

OK, I'm assuming that "good school" refers to college, right? Good would kinda depend on what you're looking to major in.

Anywhere in New Jersey is out due to requirement #2. Otherwise, anywhere in Northeastern NJ fits the bill. Especially Hoboken/Jersey City. That would be quite a change from the Texas scenery. Good Luck....

I too am from Texas. My parents moved me to Pennsylvania when I was 11. I can't say I really like it much, the area is somewhat cheap and gays seem to be welcome in most places/situations.