Thanks, everyone for the suggestions and feedback. @Olamiss- great questions to ask. I think based on feedback from here and elsewhere and also my experiences with the schools thus far, I'm leaning towards Michigan. The cost of living is less than NYC, the employer and research world consider it "public ivy", there's a better transportation infrastructure for cold weather, I like the vibe of being a top-tier school with a public ethos, and the Epid department is well respected. Plus, of my experiences with the various offices at each of those schools, Michigan has been the friendliest and most prompt.