What metro area

Can those who currently work in or previously worked in MBB consulting offer opinion on a home office?

Having an opportunity to choose a location I look at the following metrics regarding importance and finding the best balance point among these metrics:

Cost of living.

Career progression within firm as well as exits.

Social/single scene.

I understand about geography and wach office with tendency toward certain industry. Additionally I understand some firms have global vs regional staffing etc . What I am more asking is based on the above three metrics what would be your sweet spot in terms of a metro area?

Im east coast raised however given fact I would be working decent amount being near family isn't a huge factor.

My current consideration is NYC, Dallas, Boston, Chicago but I am open to hear cases about other regional areas, Denver, Salt Lake, Charlotte etc..

Any input appreciated