The difference with London is that it has lots of nice areas outside the centre. It's a sprawling city, with a shitty tourist centre.
Manchester is basically the opposite. Great centre surrounded by grim areas.
You're probably right. I just don't like the vibe down South, everyone is in their own bubble and there isn't the friendliness that you get up North.
I visit London a fair bit because my Dad lives in Highgate not far from the Emirates which is very affluent and you still have to put your phone away near the tube station because you're at risk of some thug on a moped robbing you