Ask HN: What are some good small cities in the US?

Lincoln, NE

(I know, I know, but give me a chance.)

Home of the University of Nebraska–Lincoln (UNL), it is often referred to as "the next Austin." It isn't there yet, but it is going there. For instance, it was recently ranked happiest city according to Gallup's index. (http://journalstar.com/news/local/lincoln-is-the-happiest-pl...) Additionally, the university recently made a huge land purchase to start "Innovation Campus." A new arena is being developed which isn't the biggest in the area, but is big enough to attract the bigger names. Commute times are low, buses are available, and bike trails are being built all the time because the city is repurposing old railroad paths as bike trails. With respect to the latter, it is easily possible to bike from downtown to the city's limits without having to venture onto main streets (though you'll have to cross a couple in crosswalks)

With respect to Austin, you get some of the best parts from the proximity of a nearby university, while getting things Austin can't offer such as a smaller size, a lower cost of living, etc.

Ten years ago I couldn't haven't recommended it, now I could easily recommend it. It is on the up and up.