We average around 150 blue-sky days per year, with summers warm, but not unbearable, and winters usually milder than the rest of the US Midwest.
Manhattan has clean water, clean air, clean parks, clean streets, and a low crime rate.
A great deal of decent housing is available within walking distance of campus. A car is not an absolutely necessity, but quality of life improves with one. Overall, the cost of living is lower in Manhattan than in most university towns. Private facilities exist as well. Childships'' can be applied for that provide financial assistance in meeting these bills.