Even when a potential city dweller checks out areas such as Shadyside or the South Side, they are met with limited resources. I would say that while in Pittsburgh 80 percent or more of the people I knew lived outside the city. In Milwaukee, I would say that number is closer to 40 percent in the ʻburbs, 60 percent city. (And 99 percent of the suburban friends are married. I only have two single friends who live outside the city limits.)

Another plus to Milwaukeeʼs Downtown -- its ample use of green and water space. I love that on any given night you can bike, run, eat, or drink outside. From the cityʼs dedication to keeping our parks and trails clean and open, to our townʼs restaurants and bars taking full advantage of nice weather with outdoor patios, Milwaukee really is a great city by a Great Lake.

EDGE: Milwaukee

SHOPPING

Along with diamonds, good shopping is a girlʼs best friend. Iʼve been impressed upon my return to Milwaukee with the new options that have popped up all over downtown.

There is a great selection of locally owned stores; Alla Reed, Stephanie Hoerner, Lela, Envy, etc ... What is also encouraging are the number of bigger chain stores that have made the moved to Brew Town. Itʼs great to have an Anthropologie, Urban Outfitters and American Apparel all within walking distance or a short car ride from the center of the city.

However, Pittsburgh slightly trumps Milwaukee in retail. In addition to great boutiques, the city limits also boast a Saks Fifth Avenue, GAP, Banana Republic, JCrew, REI, Cole Hahn ... you get the point. Bigger names in the business of fashion dot the cityscape, and that has done wonders bringing more people downtown. Oh, and coming this fall to the ʻburgh is Nordstrom. Enough said.

EDGE: Pittsburgh

RESTAURANTS

I am a self proclaimed foodie. I love to eat and will try any cuisine at least once. I crave good Thai, Ethiopian and Mexican food; but also love a great burger or slice of pizza.

While in Pittsburgh, I went through MAJOR Mexican food withdrawal. In Western PA, Mad Mex" (aka TEX MEX) was considered "authentic." I took trips home for the enchiladas alone. Milwaukee takes the blue ribbon on its variety of ethnic foods.

Within walking distance of my apartment I can taste Thai, Mexican, Ethiopian, Chinese, and even Middle Eastern. I also love the number of outdoor dining options and incredible brunches. I could eat out in our fair city every day and never get bored.

With that said, Pittsburghʼs food scene was pretty darn good. Pittsburgh, much like Milwaukee, is a melting pot of European immigrants and the tastes of those countries followed. It was easy to find a great meal -- especially if it was American influenced. Add to that, Pittsburgh had more than a dozen places to find a great slice of pizza. (Not a whole pie, just a slice ... perfect!)

And if you plan on venturing east next weekend to watch the Crew take on the Pirates, be sure to stop by Primanti Bros. in the strip district or on Carson Street. I swear on my Nanaʼs grave, you wonʼt have a better sandwich than a steak and cheese with fries and coleslaw smothered between the bread. Heavenly!

EDGE: Even

NIGHTLIFE

Simply put, Milwaukeeans are known for their, umm, talent of throwing a few back. I love, love, love that you can find a good spot any night of the week and the beer served in Wisconsin is second to none. Itʼs nice to know you can always discover a laid back scene where jeans and T-shirt are just as accepted as a sundress.

Even with its shot-and-a-beer mentality, Milwaukee has managed to balance out the late night scene with great spots like Balzac and Indulge where wine takes center stage.

I feel like every time I pick up the paper or check online, a new haunt is opening up. The best part of Miltownʼs nightlife? The summer patios. Heck, even if a bar doesnʼt have a patio, almost every place in town throws a few tables and chairs on the sidewalk encouraging residents to enjoy a drink under a bright moon and warm breeze.

Pittsburgh again is much like Milwaukee in its blue collar drinking habits, but the lack of patios and more low key bars hurt the cityʼs overall score. Also lacking after dark, young and single professionals. Pittsburgh has been dead last or in the bottom five of Forbes "Best Cities for Singles" list the last five years running.

EDGE: Milwaukee

OVERALL CITY LIFE:

Milwaukee is my home, and it was just named Americaʼs sexiest city. Game over.

EDGE: Milwaukee