Mr. Joyner,

Correct me if I'm wrong, but weren't you relocating the office in Aukland to New York City?

If that's the case, all you need to do is take the train at Penn Station 90 miles south- right into Philly.

We are rich with history, being the birthplace of our great nation (Liberty Bell, Declaration of Independence & original Capital).

We have one Ivy League University (U. of Penn.) as well as other prominent Universities (Temple, Drexel, Thomas Jefferson). That's just mentioning the ones in the city. In the suburbs, we have Swathmore, Bryn Mawr, Villanova, St. Joe's, etc.

We are right with culture. Many movies are filmed on location here. We also have some incredible restaurants and the Art Museum hosts great displays as well.

I believe that Fairmount Park is the largest "in city" park in the country. Taken from their own website, "Did you know that Fairmount Park is within walking distance of every Philadelphia resident? With 63 neighborhood parks, Fairmount Park is Philadelphia's 9,200 acre citywide park system."

In conclusion, I hope you consider Philadelphia.

Best,

-Kevin

Note from MJ: Hey Kevin, yep we are going to live in NYC part of the year and maintain a satellite office there. The main HQ needs to be in a location that meets other criteria, though. The weather will probably keep us out of the northern regions for the most part ... I love PN. Just drive from Pittsburgh to State College the other day and it was stunningly beautiful. I just think the winters will be too much.

New York City.
It costs more because its worth it.

Check out some of the reasons at:
http:www.littlebytesofthebigapple.com

Note from MJ: yep, we love NYC and will live there part of the year - with a satellite office there

Hello Mark,

I've known several people who have lived in and/or grew up in Houston. They have a saying about Houston, "The nicest people in the world." and it's totally sarcastic because apparently people are extremely rude there, in general of course. I have not been there personally but from the 5 or so people I know who have lived there it's very violent in many areas, extremely congested etc.

My pick for the type of city you're looking for would be Raleigh, NC. Last I knew it's the most educated area of the with a very high percentage of college educated adults from a very wide variety of states and countries. Also, the cost of living and doing business is signicantly cheaper than a traditional mega city like Houston.

Hope this helped.

Jason

Mark, Houston will probably do for you; I grew up there. I would add that I have lived in Austin for the past 16 years and it is a much more progressive city with regards to quality of life with all the same business benefits. The airport is a nice feeder airport into Dallas/Houston/Atlanta/etc. (new, modern, with many airlines available) You will add 1+ hour to your flights from Austin on many flights to some cities, but I found the tradeoff acceptable and I traveled every week for 12 years to other states and countries.

With my knowledge of both cities and family in Houston, I would still choose Austin.

I would urge you to model some common flights and perhaps visit both Austin and Houston. Houston has some impressive traffic. I regularly spent 2 hours going from the north area of the city to the downtown area. In Austin I can go from the north point of the city to the southern most point in under an hour even with a wreck.

I wish I could say "L.A." for you - but they really suck for a couple of your criteria.

But, just to give you something different to look at...

I'm thinkin' maybe Las Vegas might actually meet your criteria. People that I know that live there really love it. (And, as I'm sure you know, it's not all about the Strip.)

You might even be able to lure talent from Silicon Valley and Los Angeles easier.

Worth a look.

Harris

Hi, Mark,

Phoenix is the place for you!

1. Land: done. We have a ton of land here, a lot of it close to the city and right now it is cheap.

2. Out of everything on the list, this has historically been our weak spot, but not anymore. We have a symphony, the Herberger Theatre for plays, the timeless and beautiful Orpheum which has been completely renovated for shows, a thriving and up and coming downtown art scene, etc.

3. We have Arizona State University, Grand Canyon University, Thunderbird (one of the most highly rated business grad schools on the planet), etc.

4. Sky Harbor Airport is definately a major hub

5. The weather is wonderfully fantastic here six months out of the year, 12 if you don't mind the heat

6. We have a pretty darn clean city

7. In the US

8. Definately a favorable tax regime: rich history of being a conservative (Libertarian-type) Republican state

9. Housing and land is cheap cheap cheap right now

10. Pro-business government: see #8

Good luck!

Come to Plymouth MN, right by Minneapolis/St.Paul. You'll freeze for half of the year, but that's why God made mittens and hats with ear flaps. Seriously - when I go over your criteria I think it's a fantastic fit. And you'll learn to love the cold. Keeps out the riff-raff.

The denver boulder corridor is great and there is plenty of good office/industrial space since Oracle took over Sun. There are some great deals on big corporate campuses in Broomfield (about 15 minutes from denver) Denver/boulder has everything on your list. Several universities, major airport, reasonable housing, cosmopolitan (largest city for 300 miles in any direction), climate capital of the US with 300 + sun days a year, great recreational activities outdoors, right to work state, at will firing state, low tax state, smart growth, lots of open space and generally beautiful scenery.

Providence, RI

It gets a bit chilly in the winter, but not bad. I don't have all the specs you were looking for. But, the location is good, major airport, hour to Boston, 2-3 to NYC. Beautiful, recently rebuilt downtown. 20-30 minutes to the ocean. Within Providence you have Brown, Providence College, Johnson and Wales (resulting in awesome restaurants), University of Rhode Island and RISD, Rhode Island School of Design and more universities right outside of the city. Culturally there is a top rated regional theater, Fire Water www.waterfire.org which is a permanent art installation, a Performing Arts Center and Civic Center.

That's my vote!

Houston is HOT, HUMID and can be hit by hurricanes. It's in Texas - the home of the worst president we've ever had. I, who group up on the East Coast and now live in San Diego wouldn't come work for you there if you paid me a million dollars.

Just my two cents.

Bangalore would be the Best city.

I don't know about the best city, but the worst city is Portland Oregon and Vancouver Washington

Who was the bozo who said Las Vegas "has freezing winters"? What a pile of hooey. Las Vegas has two seasons: Heaven and Hell and Hell only lasts about two months.

I've been in Houston. It is not only hot and humid, it is subject to flood-causing rains, tornadoes, and hurricanes. It is like living in a swamp, but too far from the coast for any cooling sea breezes.

Houston's bright spot is the people who live there. They are a nice bunch.

An old friend has been working there for 9 or 10 years and still refers to that area as "Texas Hell".

You ought to reconsider both Houston and Las Vegas then switch their positions on your decision list.

Thanks,

John

Hi,

That conclusion about Houston was found years ago, although when I've mentioned it I was told that traffic there is quite bad; I don't know since I live in Lisbon :-)
I'll take the chance to say something that I find awkward - yeah I know that the english language can have some strange characteristics - why does one say the H from Houston like Y from You and like H from Hoot ? At least this is how I understand it. Of course that there may be differences in terms of pronounciation.

Have a nice week,

José

How about a city in the middle of the U.S.? Tulsa, Oklahoma is clean, the people are great, and we're in the throes of growth and development.

We generally have mild weather, with some extremes (100s in summer and minus degrees in winter) for very short periods of time.

Our airport, while not a major hub, is tied to anywhere you want to go.

And the property values are wonderful. We haven't had issue with the drastic mortgage crises in other places. I'm sure you've heard of the wide open plains of Oklahoma. Tulsa is close to both very flat land in Kansas and high hills in Arkansas. We're only a day or two drive to skiing in New Mexico, or shopping in Dallas or Kansas City.

We have the University of Tulsa, Oral Roberts University, Phillips University, branches of both Oklahoma State and the University of Oklahoma, a great community college with 4 campuses, and technical schools for all kinds of learning from aeronautical to gastronomical training. We are becoming a mecca for internet businesses of various sizes and types.

Our arts community is also very strong, with everything from world class museums (Philbrook and Gilcrease) to musical venues from rock, country and jazz.

If you're looking for a venue that has flexibility and capabilities in it's workforce, Tulsa, Oklahoma is where you want to be.

Austin hands down. It's not an airline hub but by the you get to the airport in houston's sprawl and traffic a connecting flight from Austin would have already arrived.

It takes 20 minutes max to get to the airport in Austin. Quick lines. I routinely get on planes 30 minutes after I leave my door.

On the other hand, Austin lacks Houston's international diversity and variety of cultured entertainment.

I recommend test driving both.

Mark,
The Great Pacific Northwest is as far as you really should look! I am not gonna sell you on it, since all you need to do is look at the breadth of companies that call us home.
Portland or Seattle
I have roots in both and would be happy to host a tour!
Let me know
Jeff

Houston? Come on...floods, hurricanes, rust belt industries & pollution, hot as hell, except with 100% humidity... and why at a hub city? I'd much rather come and go from a regional intl airport a short flight from a hub, avoiding the traffic, congestion and multi terminal behemoth airports with expensive parking 5 miles away.
Break out of the bubble, bubble boys! In country, choose a city like Charlotte NC, Bethlehem, PA ....or many others preferable to those mentioned above...or break out of country to Panama CIty Panama,cheap, beautiful, world commerce center, low taxes, big incentives, good infrastructure thanks to almost 100 years of American presence, and THE CANAL not only an engineering marvel but revenue provider extraordinaire, keeping taxes low. Beautiful rainforest preserves and pristine offshore waters an hour out of town.
Can't believe how US centric this discussion is.
Time to consider that maybe not so many talented people will be willing to come to a country seemingly determined to reducing itself to 3rd world status and the total destruction of its middle class.

Mark, you are never going to believe this...

(Unless of course, you already know...but personally, I couldn't believe it when I saw IT a couple of weeks ago.)

Correct me if I'm wrong, but you have plans to move to sunny Florida before the winter hits the Big Apple...right?

I'm not a great connoisseur in US cities (I'm from Mexico), BUT, take a look at this:

JACQUE FRESCO'S RESEARCH CENTER IS FOR SALE!

The property does not has the area you're looking for, but if you don't buy It, I probably will next year (mmmm... Wanna share? ;-)

Still I thought you should have it in your Real State Rolodex for serious consideration.

Quick description:

21 + acre park-like paradise, lush landscaping consisting of many ponds, lakes, hundreds of palm trees, various fruit and flowering trees, many large old, oak trees, two bridges and a large deck cantilevered over a lake.

Ten buildings; hurricane resistant, fire resistant, termite resistant, concrete and steel buildings, 5 are domes, 3 homes, 1 office, 2 equipped shops, very large spa, 4 wells, 3 septic tanks

THIS IS LIKE A RESEARCH CENTER IN A BOX MJ.

I don't know how high the prices are in that area but when you see the price...you might think good'ol Jacque made a mistake.

http://www.flalandsale.com/

Anyway brother, I'm excited you are living in the US. Next year I'm planing to move to the United States as well to take business and personal growth/relationships to the next level.

My Best,
@PeterPalatnik

P.S. Man, I'm so excited about the FUTURE. Aren't you?

Hi Mark,

You have mentioned, you want to find a city in the USA. Why don't you consider India?

In India you will find all the talents you need, surplus of manpower, ample space within the city, nearest to airport and most importantly all at less than one twentieth of the price you get in the US.

In India, Goa, Bangalore or Hyderabad is ideal.

Do let me know if you need a responsible and honest person to do liaison works like finding a place in India, getting all the jobs done with government, etc.

i think New York is best city since there are a lot of Opportunity out there
Have good time

You should ask Richard Florida, author of 'Rise of the Creative Class' and others.

He's created great indices for what makes a place a "cultural creative center".

Take a look at Richmond, VA. It is the Honda Accord of cities -- not a dream choice, but a solid one with no serious negatives.

Not a major hub, but a decent sized airport. Lots of direct flights to NYC airports. Within 100 miles of Washington, DC -- with Dulles and National airports as needed.

Lots of land available -- do a search on West Creek Office Park (in Goochland county -- just outside Richmond). It is connected via divided highway (65 mph speed limit) to interstate 64.

Two universities (University of Richmond and Virginia Commonwealth) and a university medical center in Richmond. Charlottesville and the University of Virginia are just down the road. Temperate weather -- nothing like the heat of Houston or the cold of the North

Virginia has a favorable tax scheme, and is consistently rated one of the best states for business. Cultural events continue to grow, with several major renovations and construction to peforming arts venues.

Traffic is light, never an issue beyond a slight annoyance at rush hour.

I used to live in Chicago, which is a fantastic city, but doesn't meet your criteria... And trust me you will hate the cold weather in the north. I just moved to Richmond, VA and have been pleasantly surprised with the city. It has a rich history, culture, arts, universities, light traffic, good airport, lots of land for sale, good cost of living and low taxes. The weather is perfect- four solid seasons with mild winters, lots of trees, really pretty here. Best of all two hours to the ocean, two hours to the mountains, and two hours to DC.

I grew up here but havn't lived here in 20 years and I was prepared to hate it, but it turns out to be a great little city and much better quality of life than a larger sprawled out city.

Yes, Texas gives many of the benefits you're looking for, but I discourage you from going to Houston, because during the summer months, the place smells like a putrid swamp. Literally. Ask anyone who's ever lived there. Austin is a much, much better environment and will make it easier to attract the talent you want.

I am a Florida native and abandoned Texas (Dallas, which is also full of culture: Fort Worth nearby, great art and sculpture museums, Symphony, brand new opera house; the problem for me is that it's the most superficial place I've ever been) to move back home. The economy in Florida is in bad shape, or I would say move your headquarters to Tampa--best airport ever, good culture, Yankees in the spring, and plenty to do outdoors. Plus, real estate is a deal right now relative to what it was just a few years ago.

I would definitely recommend Austin! I understand about the flights, but the airlines out of the Austin airport are constantly adding new non-stop flights.

I have a few friends who have lived in Houston and none have really good things to say about it. The traffic is horrible and of course, Houston can get hit by hurricanes.

Austin is a city with a lot of culture and diversity. The people here love being here and take pride in their city. Austin's motto is: "Keep Austin Weird" and "Support local businesses."

This is a city of people who are interested in fitness, health, culture, beauty, the arts, business, and fun. It is a very liberal city...considered an oasis in the center of Texas.
The joke is that Austin is the only large Texas city that you can wear jeans at any bar, restaurant, or lounge and feel completely comfortable.

I'm not from Austin. I grew up about an hour south of Chicago. I love Chicago too. But Austin has such a laid-back, relaxed attitude in a high-tech, high-business town. Great city.

Wherever you end up, Mark, I'm sure the city will come to love you as much as you love it.
Bobbi

Dublin, Ireland. The Government will do evrything for you, believe me. Why do Microsoft,Google, Intel, Facebook,Paypal to mention a few have their European HQs here? Tax breaks,generous Grants, a highly educated workforce, English speaking,and a Government that contains the Green party with a BIG say in what happens and who would do anything for this project!

Have you considered the Orlando area? The Greenway(417) connects directly to the airport and goes through rural areas. Meets or comes close to all of your criteria.
Would love to have you here.

L

Mark, you will find that Nashville is the most centrally located major city in the country relative to population. It is also at the literal crossroads of the country: I40 & I24. Hub airport, friendliest people on the planet, very beautiful area, super for business, and the winters are generally mild and seem to be getting milder yearly. Rarely do we see snow there anymore. The other seasons are spectacular, and you won't get that in hot humid Houston. Crime rates are relatively low for a city that size. Tons of universities including ivy league Vanderbilt, Austin Peay, nearby Middle TN State U, and more. Much culture and lots of great shows come through Nashville. Best city on the globe if ya ask me (as far as BIG cities go...personally I prefer Knoxville where I live as it is so 'baby bear', i.e., not too big/not too small...just right!)
Blessed, healthy, prosperous & free be,
B'Shem Yahushua (in the Name of Jesus),
with love and shalom from
Shalom
THE HCG Coach
HCGCoach.com

Mark,

Come to Tacoma The City of Destiny!!!!

There have been many a comment recommending you locate in the poster's home town. This is going to be somewhat more of the same.

I am originally from the East Coast of the U.S. While I miss some very specific pieces of that place, I have called Washington State and the Pacific Northwest my home for the last 15 years. I've lived in Seattle and spend a lot of my time in Portland and still, I picked Tacoma over both of them to launch my business enterprises from. Tacoma's nickname is The City of Destiny. Can't really beat that with a stick.

I could go on and on in this comment box on how this city fits all of your criteria and then some, instead I am going to do my best to get some of my contacts from the City of Tacoma's Economic Development Division and governmental seats in touch with you and your team.

In the mean time check out

http://www.cityoftacoma.org/Page.aspx?nid=4
and
http://www.exit133.com/

to do some internet investigating of your own...

Kimberly Laura Malone

Hey Mark,
I vote for Calgary Alberta CANADA!
Yes it does go below zero degrees Celsius, but all the other positives makes this the city to be in!
Check it out and you will not be disappointed - and what can I say - we have the Rocky Mountains on our doorstep - skiing in winter and hiking in the most heavenly mountains in summer!
Thanks
Jack

Hi Mark, I'd suggest Atlanta Georgia myself. Winters are mild and while summers can be hot and humid it's not unbearable. It's not a natural disaster pron area, friendly area, major airport. Perfect in my opinion.

To Your Success,
Cassandra

I too thought of Atlanta when I read your list--although I'm working to move to someplace cold, myself (after I finish my doctorate; full-time Ph.D. student here).
* Hartsfield is definitely a travel hub...
* Georgia Tech, Georgia State, and Emory--all within 15-20 minutes of each other...
* very warm, rarely cold...
* few natural disasters (the occasional tornado)...
* fair amount of cultural activities with unusually strong diversity...
* pro-business Republican stronghold (another reason I want out, but if I were starting a business, I'd stay)...
* low property values, but they haven't bottomed-out like many...

The one issue, I'd say, is the city's infrastructure. Smart money would locate in Marietta, Kennesaw, or Alpharetta--very near Atlanta, still close to all the cultural opportunities, but also much more stable in terms of schools, water, and other public services.

You might want to consider Ottawa, Canada. the nation's capital of Canada. We have all the embassies of the world here. A strong economy and a safe place to live. Many NGOs are here. Plenty of lobbying groups and an international airport. We call it the spiritual Mecca. Maybe you have heard of us? ;) Kathleen

Have considered Alabama. We have the requirements your looking for .Put aside the red neck jokes .If it good enough for the major corps here ,then just think about it we have International Airport. Columbiania Alabama has the land Shelby County has been named fastest growing county in the nation .Helena named little paridish. Well anyway just a thought .Good luck to you! HAPPY HUNTING BETTY

Hi yes it is true that city is really beautiful, is like aheaven on earth