having just been through the neuro application process, program-wise, i think the overall strongest programs were Harvard (MGH/Brigham), Hopkins, and UCSF, with Columbia and Penn right behind. Then I'd put Harvard (Beth Israel), Yale, Cornell, Stanford, and UCLA in the second group.
Location is a obviously a different and more personal issue.
Disclaimer: I didn't visit Wash U, Mayo, or Cleveland, etc. so I don't know about those.
good luck!
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