Man I feel this with my whole soul. Growing up in CT pricing on everything, even back around 2012 was beyond outrageous (and far worse now). Moved down got established with my wife in SW Va.. just turned 38.. have 7 years left on the house.. vehicles paid off in May coming up and have managed to live a very comfortable life here. Property Taxes are a good 5-6k less per year easily. And to your point the folks here are super friendly and kind. Big shift from what I was accustomed to.