Los Angeles Surges in War Against NYC

Coke vs. Pepsi. Kennedy vs. Castro. Heidi vs. L.C. Epic yet minor rifts when compared to the timeless power struggle between New York and Los Angeles. In the name of settling this battle royale, each week Radar will take stock and determine which city truly holds the competitive edge.

This week: Oh, Los Angeles. Is it not enough to have balmy temperatures, beautiful people, and—on my recent visit, at least—a preponderance of drug dealers wearing Rainbow sandals and cargo shorts? No. Apparently it isn't. First The Hills pummels Gossip Girl in the Nielson ratings. Then you hit us where it hurts, whipping out your economic might and shaming us in a financial measuring contest. (See below.)

NYC: After the J.P. Morgan buyout, Bear Stearns investment bankers wait to hear if they'll continue to be masters of the universe, or will instead be voted off the island and back into an empty, celibate, bottle-service-free existence.

L.A.: The Wall St. Journal reports that California "boasts the most millionaires", with Los Angeles County claiming the number one spot. Manhattan ladies camped out at banker bars on Stone St., take note.

Advantage: L.A.