Movoto, a real estate search engine, is an unlikely place to come up with lists of nerdiest towns, most exiting cities and most redneck cities.
But I guess they do them to get press. In this case, it worked because I'm writing about them.
Their latest compilation has deemed Atlanta the "funniest city" in America.
How do they come up with such a designation over obvious candidates such as Los Angeles, Chicago (home of Second City) and New York?
The site said it was based on four criteria:
* Number of comedy clubs and comedy festivals
* Where comedians were born or currently live
* Location of sitcoms
* Improv groups per capita
Although we don't have that many high-profile comics from Atlanta, the site counted 35 comedy clubs or festivals in town - or at least places that showcase comedy at least once a week. We also have several sitcoms based here, thanks to BET, Tyler Perry and TV One. And there are quite a few improv groups per capita in Atlanta.
Here's what the Movoto writer David Cross (not the comic who is from here) wrote:
Is Hotlanta actually the funniest city in America? Here’s why the city ranked so highly: Atlanta has, according to my count, 35 comedy clubs, including the Laughing Skull Lounge, which was voted the best comedy club in the city in 2009, 2010, and 2011. There’s also The Punchline Comedy Club, another well-known spot. In addition, Atlanta is home to Dad’s Garage Theatre Company, Laughing Matters, and Whole World Theatre, all professional improv comedy companies. And finally, Atlanta is the birthplace of Jeff Foxworthy and my sort-of nemesis, the other David Cross—who I wish I could call a no-talent ass clown.
"I don't think Atlanta is America's funniest city. I think their numbers are off," said Marshall Chiles, who runs Laughing Skull Lounge. "I think they're trying to make a splash in Atlanta so let's place them on top. It's a marketing ploy. I have no problem with it." He is also thrilled that his place was referenced.
At the same time, he noted, "Atlanta has become a major comedy city. Just being on top of the list shows. We have credibility when it comes to comedy cities."
Travis Sawrie, a Movote spokesman, admits the list is just to create conversation and build brand awareness. "We know funny is subjective," he said.
The top 10 is here and includes Chicago at No. 2, Los Angeles No.3, Boston at No. 4 and New York City at No. 5.
