I have a lot of research to do before I figure this out. Not sure where exactly it would be. What I am sure of is that it would have a lot to do with the local taxes and of course how 2A friendly the state is. I also know there are certain resources I want available, like enough game to survive if necessary, a good solid stream capable of being used for hydro-electric power, and of course a nice area to set up a proper range!
I spent the night the Ashland when I was doing a multi-day solo kayak island hopping around the Apostle Islands. It was an interesting place.
Lived in Knoxville (and Maryville) for 10 years. I LOVED all of the mountains, bluegrass music and available whitewater. Still, I wouldn't raise kids there for anything.
Anywhere? My gut tells me Asheville, NC. The same mountains and climate as Knoxville but without the busybody-wannebeyuppie-EastTennesseans.
Actually, I'm thinking somewhere in the desert Southwest suits me well. Arizona, maybe.
My wife would vote the South West (Santa Fe area, for instance). I don't think I would mind. If money/income wasn't an issue, then I think the foothills of Appalachia would be nice. I could compromise on southern Colorado (near Utah/NM).
In any case: no big cities, low taxes, lots of room, and decent weather.
Flagstaff area of Arizona is our goal. Still have the four seasons, lots of snow, but no sub-freezing temps like northern Indiana. In April, you can wake up to a foot of snow but it is gone by noon. Nice dry 85 deg temps in summer
I can't believe I'm not seeing down town Baltimore on this list?
A good job waiting on all these highly skilled motivated workers and responsible dog owner? The dream life of expensive cars, trucks, fancy houses and cement ponds out back they've dreamed of all their life from jobs they barely have to show up for. With every one there slurping their lunch from a paper bag and doing their jobs from a lawn chair it will be easy for the genius crew on this board to look like a star!