Well, you can continue the great tradition of pi$$ing off everyone in TX by moving there. They just love Californians.

Mama mentioned Austin and I go there every summer (well, not last summer) to meet up with my college homies. Most of them live in Texas and we all love Austin. The BBQ is phenomenal, and that's coming from a KC guy. From what I hear, the housing is getting pricey because everyone and their brother is moving there. Though it's probably still better than California lol.

I've always really liked the Denver area as well. I'm also one of those people that likes snow, seasons, and lots of wildlife. Doesn't hurt they have some blue ribbon trout streams. Once again, it's getting crowded and more expensive. Such is life, I suppose.

Seattle and Washington state are fantastic. Both of my siblings live in Seattle, so I visit often. Thought I'd like to move there right out of college, but I decided against living with 4 other people for a crammed apartment lol. Obviously, your situation is a little different. Even if I was financially stable I doubt I'd move there, however.

Politics? Have fun. Polarization is tearing this country apart. I have my own convictions, and they've generally been the opposite of the state where I've lived (like right now), so that dynamic is not new to me. But now it seems like anything I say pi$$es everyone off lol.

Good luck in your decision!