I am here at Jomtien beach for 5 months. I think its the best for me cause I like amenities and a reasonable quiet environment. If I stay in at the condo, it is quiet and peaceful. IMHO, Pattaya really offer a little bit of everything someone want. Don't be restricted by your view thru the media or own bias and think Pattaya as only the tourist central/beach/Buakhao area.
You never know until you try living in any area. To qualify my view, I came from a city live style of Singapore.