Ask A Genius 1448: Life in Major Cities: L.A., Boulder, NYC, and More
Author(s): Rick Rosner and Scott Douglas Jacobsen
Publication (Outlet/Website): Ask A Genius
Publication Date (yyyy/mm/dd): 2025/07/13
Rick Rosner recounts his residential experiences in Los Angeles, Boulder, New York City, Orlando, and Albuquerque, highlighting the unique qualities of each. He praises L.A. and Boulder, notes NYC’s vibrancy, critiques Orlando, and expresses admiration for London. Scott Douglas Jacobsen adds New Orleans to the list of cities that foster genuine human connection.
Scott Douglas Jacobsen: Next topic: Which cities have you lived in—not simply visited?
Rosner: I lived in New York City for two and a half years and Orlando briefly, though long-term it would have been intolerable. I spent approximately 24 years growing up in Boulder, which is an excellent city overall, despite some challenging personal experiences as a socially awkward adolescent.
I’ve frequently visited Albuquerque for work—about a month each year—accumulating nearly two years there, excluding my first two years of life. To summarize, I’ve lived in Boulder, Albuquerque, New York City, Orlando briefly, and significantly in Los Angeles since 1989. Additionally, I’ve visited London four times, totaling about two months, and would like more time there, as it is quite pleasant.
While I haven’t lived in many cities, those I’ve experienced have been mostly positive. Los Angeles is excellent, aside from issues like traffic. New York is also great, with some downsides. London is wonderful, with minor drawbacks. Boulder is amazing, except during challenging social periods in my youth.
If I had to spend my life in four cities, the ones I’ve inhabited provide a balanced experience. Los Angeles, Boulder, and New York City are all exceptional. Albuquerque less so. London is great, though my experience is limited.
Jacobsen: New Orleans pleasantly surprised me. Despite its issues, people genuinely connect there.
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