> I've rarely seen a few articles(actually they exist) which talks in terms of data, verifiable facts, empirical evidence

You will drive yourself nuts trying to understand the essence of a place based on that stuff. It's an extreme example, but can you imagine trying to convey the character of Venice by discussing crime rate, property values, taxes, commute times, and so on?

I think it's perfectly fine to express your opinion in such an article. Everyone's situation and perception are different. You may gain more by empathizing with their outlook than by poring over data about what the optimal living arrangement is.