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I have trucker friends who travel all 48 and many parts of Canada on a regular basis. My friend Ward, did it regularly for many years, until he retired just a few months ago. Although he does work upon occasion, on a local basis!
It was just two years ago, that I asked Ward if he were to move to another state, where would he go. He replied without hesitation....Tennessee ! Grant would likely move there, except for strong family ties and investments here. I received that answer from other truck drivers also. For what it is worth.
Although you Texas was brought up, I'll comment lightly, since I spent some years there. Keeping in mind, years there were decades ago, I agree that Texas being a large state differs area to area. Geographically, Laredo is a far cry from Lufkin, and Orange is far different town than Odessa.
One way of looking at it, is to look at the areas which border Texas, and consider the idea that geography, culture and people do not stop at the often, invisible line. East Texas has a Louisiana flavor...and the same goes for the Rio Grande border, which is influenced by Mexico, and penetrates well into the state..
This is on second thought, is probably true of most states, with the possible exception of Hawaii..for obvious reasons..
Surely, northern Maine has French/Quebec influence.. Western NY State, where I live, has that same feature.
People living in western NY are much like people living in western PA or Ohio. They bear very little resemblance to the NY City dwellers, and have even less in common with their beliefs/customs.
Those city folks who have more in common with the cities megalopolis running to 50 miles inland, which goes from the Virginia coast up through Massachusetts.
What ever you do, try to spend some time in any place you are considering, before you jump. Even if you do move to a favored state..take a bit of time to 'learn the neighborhood' before you buy.
One thing to keep in mind, if you are a hunter, trapper or into other outdoor sports. Although some states boast much mountains, forests and open land..much of it is owned by corporate interests..timber, ranches, oil, gas and other minerals. If you are allowed to hunt these lands, usually it would have to be through a club which pays well for a "hunting lease".
As it stands in some northeastern states, leasing such land has not reached such lengths yet. Hunting , fishing & trapping is by the owner's permission, and money does not normally change hands... friendship being the operative motivator there.
Another consideration for a permanent move.. Which of the states are most likely to resist the current trend toward communism? Texas gets high marks there, while the northeastern states get low grades.
