Don't get me wrong, I love living in the heart of the Big Apple, where absolutely everything is at my fingertips. But sometimes I can't help but wonder how much it would cost me to live the same sort of lifestyle in another location. So that's exactly what I decided to look into.

Let's start with my apartment. I live in Kips Bay, the less well-known cousin of the Murray Hill neighborhood, in a studio where I pay $1,995 a month. That's not the cheapest option in New York, but it's not bad for Manhattan with a live-in super, laundry in the building, and neighbors who neither sell drugs nor steal my mail. I'll show you the place before I moved in (because my decorating definitely adds value).

So, how much would similar digs cost me in the following 10 cities across the country? Let's check out Zillow to see (which is the source or all my information from here on out)...

Los Angeles, California (~$1,675/month)

If I were to move to sunny Southern California and make the coastal switch, it's possible I could find a cheaper studio unit right in Hollywood off Sunset Boulevard, like this joint above. Not only would I be trading the MTA for the 101 Freeway, I'd also be picking up much better weather days.

Chicago, Illinois (~$930/month)

A view of Lake Michigan, blustery winters, and Midwestern charm? I could definitely sign myself up for this with a nice little studio in the Lakeview neighborhood. About half the average rent of New York, Chi-Town offers a lot more than just Oprah and currently the best baseball team in the National League.

Miami, Florida (~$2,000/month)

Hello, home of Spring Breakers, Pitbull, and endless supplies of Solarcaine sunburn remedy! I could reside right on Miami Beach with a view of Biscayne Bay every morning and private pool access in the building. Right off Collins Avenue, I'd work on my tan and my writing year-round.

Iowa City, Iowa (~$1,200/month)

If you're thinking about pulling a Hannah on "Girls" and leaving New York for the cornfields of Iowa, be prepared to upgrade (it's pretty impossible to find a studio). One and two bedrooms range in price, but for a verified listing near a major city, you'll still be staying within a healthy budget.

Nashville, Tennessee (~$790/month)

Looking to hobnob with the biggest stars in country music and spend your weekends checking out the newbies at the Bluebird Cafe? This is the place for you, where nearly a third of the cost of a New York space will get you a one bedroom and the beginnings of a Southern drawl.

Helena, Montana (~$640/month)

I don't know much about Montana other than John Mayer has a house out there, but the quiet could be worth embracing. Most places are one or two bedrooms in the state's capital district, which is probably where a city girl would want to head so I don't feel too outnumbered by the cows.

Austin, Texas (~$1,300/month)

Another musical city which plays host to South by Southwest every March, Austin is a true delight. Most apartment buildings are significantly less than Manhattan, but if you'd like to spend top dollar, you can find yourself with full range appliances, a pool, and many more amenities.

Portland, Maine (~$850/month)

The hipster cousin in the east to the city with the same name in the west, this little college area will probably find you living above the same hardware store you'll need to buy your renovation tools. Perfect if I'm ever looking to escape to the woods and wear a lot of plaid for a year or two.

Washington, D.C. (~$1,715/month)

Whether I'm looking to right the next political drama, or find my way into the heart of a politician (I secretly, and I'm sorry to say, sexist-ly, kind of would love to be a senator's wife), this city offers studios I'd be comfortable in. Plus, the public transport system would remind me of the MTA I love so much.

Denver, Colorado (~$1,350/month)

If legal marijuana and mountain ranges not too far away become my living goals, then Denver will be where I head to. Apartment buildings can range from having pools and party rooms to being pretty basic, but the city has a wide variety to offer. Not a bad place to start your Pacific Northwest Adventure.

So, there you have it: 10 options, both higher and lower than Manhattan. I'm not sure if I love any as much as I've come to fall in love with New York, but it's nice to know there are decent options if I tire of the city that never sleeps.