I can live either in Canada or in the US... How to choose?

Hi there,

I've been living in Montreal for 2 years now and I'm going to get my permanent Visa in about 1 week (I'm originally from Belgium).

I like it here, I've got a good job, a girlfriend and I love the city. In one word: life's quite good.

However, I've been selected for further processing in the American Diversity Immigrant Visa (to get a Green Card). As a result, I'll have to choose between the US and Canada.

I've already lived 6 months in the US (South Carolina) where I was studying as an international student. I loved the experience and I've been going to the US every 2-3 months since then.

I'm not sure whether I want to stay in Canada here or leave to the US though.

On the one hand, I love the Canadian nature, good food in Montreal, the European/American mix, and the 4 seasons. I think I'd prefer to raise my kids in Canada as it's safer and less expensive.

On the other hand, I love the US. I could easily imagine to live in California (SF area) for the weather and great job opportunities.

Key factors to me are:

- Security (crime rate)
- Education (level and price)
- Climate
- Economy
- Political stability
- Healthcare system
- Tax
- General quality of life

I'm kinda lost...any input would be greatly appreciated