Are there any lists out there that show the best cities to live in as a graduate student?

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1. I don't think there are--and I'd guess that such a list would be inadequate b/c different grad students I've known had different opinions regarding living conditions. Some opt for dormitories, some for apartment complexes, some live way off campus in comfy farmhouses and others rent cheap off-campus hovels. I can share with you what I did when grad-school shopping, it might help. I went to my campus student development office and told them my criteria for grad. school (I wanted a department that offered an MA but not PhD [being top of pecking order has advantages], and a warmer climate for a change). We put together a list of about 15 universities that matched those criteria, and then I sent a letter off to each department, explaining that I was interested in grad. study and I'd like to know what fellowships or assistanceships were available, plus what off-campus housing was available and what was the job market for my wife (an office worker). I got a range of responses; most just sent a form letter that didn't address all my questions (one sent a list of course offerings)--I crossed them off, in favor of those who sent person letters or at least added personal notes to the form letter to respond to my questions. Back then, I took an unlimited Trailways bus pass and circled the USA to visit all of my finalists. Today, a cheaper alternative would be to use the web to search for information on the university and the locality. Hope that helps--
2. I know there's a quality of life poll for grad schools by U.S. News. Find the grad schools on the top of the list. I presume that the city had something to do with the rating.