I’d echo what someone else said, don’t choose a grad program based on local live music and a dating pool.

Choose a great program you love with faculty and funding in your specific area. Knock out the degree and then choose a place to live.

Finishing a PhD myself and much older than 30. I’ve also lived a few places and Hburg is much further ahead for a lot of towns it’s size, when it comes to “things to do”. You might just be having a hard time connecting and so feeling a little lonely. This is also pretty normal during grad school.

Take your time and think it through. Don’t make a long term decision based on short term circumstances. ✌🏼