Ask HN: What are some biz-friendly US cities similar to Brighton or Bristol, UK?

I'm scouting out some locations for a 2-3 person US office for my UK online orientated business.

For comparison, I've found secondary cities in England like Brighton or Bristol to be particular good for setting up a small business because:

- Good universities and lots of graduates milling around after university - attractive cities to live with good life/work/urban/rural balance - Strong local freelancer/small business scene and entrepreneurial vibe. - Relatively cheap wages and office rents compared to capital cities. - Shortish commute to nearby major city when needed.

So which US cities would you consider to be in the same kind of category?