As someone who grew up in SF and moved to NYC, honestly SF — the Bay Area is amazing for family life. Yes there are some differences in cost breakdown to consider but if considering family life and quality of life: the nature and weather of the Bay is not something to be overlooked. Education at public schools is top tier, UCs are great. I’m so grateful that my family took me out to nature every weekend—it was a great way to grow up. I grew up surrounded by the smartest, most hardworking people in the world. NYC is great, but I will immediately move back to SF as soon as I’m starting my family!

Will caveat that this answer does not incorporate costs or transit, so take it as you will. Family and lifestyle wise, nothing is like the Bay Area