Gayest Cities in America, 2010 

15. Albuquerque, N.M.
This largest city in New Mexico has become a hotbed for Southwestern gays as well as space aliens (Roswell is an easy drive away). The hipster hood of Nob Hill, marked by neon signage, is its gayborhood, but gays are scattered throughout this expanding city. Exhale (formerly Renea’s) is the only lesbian bar between Dallas and Phoenix.

 

14. San Diego
Why San Diego when L.A. is so close? (The question almost answers itself.) San Diego has always been more bi-friendly, mellower, less snooty, and a place to which L.A. gays frequently escape. Black’s Beach is a famous nude sunning spot, and there’s even an annual gay rodeo.


 

13. Springfield, Mass.
When you think of gay Massachusetts, you may think Northampton or Provincetown. But now, thanks to a string of pro-gay municipal actions and progressive former mayor Michael Albano, Springfield has become an example of how a state’s pro-gay legislation can transform a city.