According to Channel 4's Location, Location, Location it is the worst place to live in England. Utter rubbish.
I am biased as I was born and brought up there. Although I have lived in Scotland for over 30 years it is still "home" to me. In fact, I'm off down there next weekend for an early family Christmas do and to see the Boro play Arsenal.
To me it's the best place in the world but make your own mind up by doing a Google search or looking on Wikipedia. Or reply to this and I'll tell you more.
Be sure to spell it right though. It's Middlesbrough with only one "o".
Good luck to your son.