Providence MSA vs Hartford-Springfield MSA (better, crime, compare, place)
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There has been talk of combining the Hartford and Springfield MSA's given the relatively small distance, continuous development, and interconnectedness between the two (the upcoming high speed rail development between them will only add to their interdependence); there's a reasonable chance it becomes reality after the 2020 census. I don't think either Springfield or Hartford on their own stack up all that well with Providence at this time, but in combination, I think these New England Metros compare reasonably well, with relatively similar populations (Providence 1.6 million, Hartford-Springfield 1.9 million).
My thoughts on the following categories (feel free to add your own):
Culture: I think both do pretty well. Providence is very artsy, with some nice attractions such as the RISD art museum, the Trinity Rep, and the city has plenty of history behind it. Hartford-Springfield have many museums between them (more than Providence I would think), the basketball hall of fame, and high quality symphonies. Northampton has some cultural amenities as well. I'll give the edge to Hartford-Springfield. Hartford-Springfield.
Nightlife: Within the city limits, I'd think Providence is definitely the better city. On the other hand, add in some of the more lively nearby cities like Northampton and West Hartford, and it's a bit more even, but I'd still say Providence is probably the better place for nightlife. Providence.
Economy: Providence is in rough shape with high unemployment, with the biggest employer being the social services industry. Hartford-Springfield is in better shape, with tech and business as the larger employers. Hartford-Springfield.
Crime: Without looking at the stats, I'm guessing Providence is easily the better one. Providence.
Quality of life: Within the city limits, Providence. Hartford-Springfield has better suburbs though (Longmeadow, West Hartford, Northampton). Tie.
Better proximity to other cities: Boston is more accessible from Providence. NYC and the rest of New England outside of Rhode Island is more accessible from Hartford Springfield. Montreal might also be accessible by high speed rail from Hartford Springfield in the near future. Tie.
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