Philadelphia, PA

Aspiring and professional artists who have been priced out of New York have relocated to Philadelphia. As a result, it has become one of the most dynamic artistic hotspots on the East Coast. The city is steeped in history, yet it also hums with dynamic young brains and current vitality. Rent and living expenses are much lower than in New York City. On average, a studio costs $1,745. Philadelphia is home to two prestigious art schools: the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts and Temple University's Tyler School of Art.

And art can be found anywhere, from museums to public settings. The Rodin Museum contains one of the greatest collections of his work outside of Paris, while the Philadelphia Art Museum is the third-largest in the United States. There is a fantastic live music scene, particularly for classical music, thanks to the Philadelphia Orchestra. The Avenue of the Arts serves as a focal point, featuring performance venues ranging from dance to experimental art. Dancers will also find a warm community here, as there are numerous prestigious dance companies.