I think Hartford is the best. It's a good value except taxes. They have regular trains up and down the Knowledge Corridor and from New Haven you can go to NYC.

I think Hartford is the best. It's a good value except taxes. They have regular trains up and down the Knowledge Corridor and from New Haven you can go to NYC. Unlike Albany, the train prices to interesting places don't vary. You would also perhaps need to like New Haven for it to be worth it. I certainly like it. However, I moved back to SF almost a year ago and I'm conflicted about it. However if you want to be in New York multiple days a week I suggest somewhere near a train in NJ, like Elizabeth, and if you really want to be near the ocean I suggest Ocean County, NJ. If you live in NJ you can also go to Princeton and Philly easily which I also love.