For me, it was an age related decision. Snow removal is fun and games until you are 65-ish. After that it becomes a burden.
I liked the real estate and lifestyle in the Southtowns better, but since it was a house that I planned on being in until age 75 or more, I chose the Northtowns with less snow. Even with the decreased snow in Amherst, I find wrestling with a snow blower at my age to be an unpleasant experience. I have sidewalks to clear and the town is quick to fine* people who don't clear snow--so I have no choice.
* they don't fine you per se, the town will actually uninvited come clear your sidewalk for you and charge you a couple hundred bucks for doing so