The public transit in those cities is non-existent compared to urban centers like Chicago or Seattle.
I'd actually compare GR at least closer to something like Asheville, only a bit smaller. It gets decent concerts, has a nice craft drink scene and lots of fun places to go, but won't compare to some place like a Chicago or Seattle if that's what you want.
"urban centers with mass transit" is moving the goalposts a little, isn't it?
For many people the car free lifestyle is the main appeal of urban centres. More not being specific enough than moving goal posts imo.
Public transit was mentioned in the original comment.