Chorlton without a shadow of a doubt. It’s got loads of unique independent bars, pubs, restaurants, shops, fiercely independent spirit, brilliant vibe, v friendly, handy for motorways, general transport links etc. Easy access to city centre. It’s also on the doorstep of the Mersey Valley which is the green belt running right round S Manchester, with lots of places to ride your bike. c. 45 mins in the car to Hayfield, Calderdale, S Pennines, Lee Quarry Rivington etc etc. Handy for the airport. It’s just an all round great place to live.
Main drawback compared with somewhere like York is the relatively high level of crime. Although it can seem quiet, there are hobgoblins constantly on the prowl and they’ll take anything you leave in view unattended. But that applies to Manchester in general I suppose.
People move outside the M60 to die slowly in beige slacks!