Think about this...

[Pumpkin_Man]

Thanks for the tip, Spooky. Illinois, is not much better when it comes to being a "Nanny State." As it stands right now, my home state has some of the highest state income taxes, and it was raised not too long ago. I also pay higher property taxes DESPITE the fact that my home is worth less now then it was worth when the referendom went through. We also pay some of the highest sales taxes, highest utility bills, highest license fees for both drivers and vehicle. Belive it or not, it costs me 98 bucks to renew my motorcycle license plates. And, as if that wasn't enough, a lot of my personal liberties have been taken away from me over the years. I can't even light off 4th of July fire crackers without risk of a 15,000 dollar fine. Additionaly, state law makers want to place a ban on any out door open fires, and there was even talk of banning out door charcole barbecues, all in the name of "safety" and "environmental safety."

Like I said, research is definately in order, and I will certainly take your advice into consideration.

Mike

[Boogeyman]

As I mentioned before, I also want to move. Off the top of my head I think Wyoming, Idaho, Northern Texas and maybe Utah. I would suggest taking a trip and visit a state that might interest you when you are ready and able to move. Spend a week or more there. Take in the community environment, watch the news and read the papers to get a sense of what is going on there and the mindset of the citizens. You can check the papers online from home now but that doesn't give you a full picture of the people that live in an area. That is what I plan on doing when I get things back on track.

North Dakota is booming right now because they have embraced fracking and the oil industry. So that might be an option too.

[Big_Guh]

You all should look into Virginia and North Carolina. Both states have great cities, beautiful countryside, mountains, and beaches. Also, both states have strong economies.

Parts of VA can get pretty chilly, but we never see any winters/snowfalls like those you all endure in the midwest.

Most of NC (away from the western portion) is even more temperate.

Both states have 4 distinct seasons.

[Boogeyman]

For me, winter isn't the issue. It is the humidity and the heat, so the south is most likely not an option. Unless I never have to leave the house. LOL

[Murfreesboro]

We lived for seven years in Staunton, VA, in the Shenandoah Valley, and I can vouch for its climate. I loved the falls and winters there, and the summers weren't really steamy because we were nestled in the Blue Ridge. Now, before Staunton we lived in Richmond, which is on the edge of Tidewater, and Richmond does indeed get steamy.

My California cousins love to tout the advantages of living in a state that has both mountains and a seacoast, but Virginia can make that boast, too.

[Pumpkin_Man]

Those are all great suggesstions. I've been to Virginia, too. It's a great place.

Mike