Not far from Orange County, we live in Long Beach, CA. House fully paid for but need to leave to children as one son disabled and needs stable long-term housing situation. That said, if I were in a position to move I'd head to New Mexico. I know all the negatives, it's a poor state, etc, but it's the place in the US I feel most at home. I love the Corrales area, but also love Las Cruces, and also Taos, although I couldn't handle the cold. I spend a lot of time in the PNW in my youth and always thought of moving there. Then about 12 years ago (I was 44), we went to Portland on a job interview and then stayed in the area for about 8 days. Fell in love with the people, the greenness, the city itself (and the beer wasn't bad :) However, at the end of the vacation I realized I couldn't stay as I feel depression creeping up me very quickly due to the lack of sun (this was in April). I never believed in Seasonal Affective Disorder when I was young, but as I've aged it's become a real issue for me. Even here in Southern California beach areas I feel it to a lesser degree. Traditionally it is gloomy here through June and then the sun comes out in early July. I always notice my mood improves within days of the bright sun. May not be an issue for you younger folks, but as you age the cold and dreariness might get to you in ways you can't foresee.