POLL: What State Do You Live In, And Why…
Ever wondered where your fellow preppers live? Participate in our anonymous poll and let us know what state you live in (and find out where others live too).
I thought that it might be interesting to discover the general demographic of where we all live (obviously those who visit this site).
Even if you’re a lurker who doesn’t comment, you too will help provide an anonymous geographical cross-section by participating…
For those who live outside the United States, I have a selection for ‘Other Country or Territory’ (feel free to list your country in the comment section)
Additionally, if you do choose to comment about it, let us know why you live there and try to answer the following questions:
First, participate in the poll. Then…tell us your state (if you want to)
Then…
1. Why do you choose to live where you are?
2. What do you like about your state?
3. What do you dislike about your state?
4. Are you happy or concerned about the direction your state is headed?
5. Do you wish you lived in a different state? Which one? Why?
Note: When viewing poll results, hover your mouse over the red bar under a state name to discover how many have voted.
How Many Preppers Per State
POLL results are in. With more than 1,000 participants, here are the raw voting results:
Note: The numbers below are raw voting results and are not ‘normalized’ for the population of each state (which I will do in a subsequent article).
UPDATE: State Rank List – Percentage Of Prepper’s Per Population
Texas (79)
North Carolina (52)
California (52)
Washington (47)
Florida (46)
Tennessee (45)
Ohio (36)
Georgia (35)
Colorado (34)
Michigan (33)
Virginia (31)
Illinois (30)
Pennsylvania (29)
Alabama (28)
Missouri (28)
New York (27)
Indiana (24)
Arkansas (21)
Oregon (21)
South Carolina (21)
Wisconsin (21)
Arizona (21)
Oklahoma (20)
New Jersey (20)
New Hampshire (18)
Iowa (18)
Minnesota (18)
Idaho (15)
Utah (14)
Kentucky (14)
Maryland (14)
Louisiana (13)
Massachusetts (13)
Kansas (12)
Nevada (11)
West Virginia (10)
New Mexico (9)
Wyoming (8)
Maine (8)
Connecticut (8)
Vermont (7)
North Dakota (7)
Montana (7)
Nebraska (7)
Mississippi (7)
Alaska (6)
South Dakota (5)
Hawaii (3)
Delaware (2)
Rhode Island (2)
I chose Wyoming because of few people and lower housing costs. I paid cash for my Wyoming residence with the equity I had in my Colorado home. I like the state because:
Few people
Low housing costs
Low taxes
Low crime
Few Democrats
Religious majority, make that Christian majority
Friendly people
Constitutional Carry law
The Tetons and Yellowstone
Disadvantages:
Yellowstone volcano
Cold winters
Arid, semi-desert climate
I wonder what happened to my vote. There was one vote for Wyoming when I first voted and it is still bold on the list, but it shows zero votes for Wyoming. I can’t vote again because there is no blank box, just a bold Wyoming showing I already voted, but with zero votes for my choice.
@DaisyK, if you hold your mouse over the red bar, you will notice that currently there is ‘1’ vote for Wyoming. Unfortunately the graph bars are not extending further out to make it easier to see… (I’m going to look into fixing this).
Sorry, when I posted this, the Wyoming bar looked the same as the Rhode Island, Kansas, etc. bars. I am glad to learn about holding my mouse over the bar to see the exact number. Probably everyone else already knew that. I am electronically challenged.
not even 200- people. There may be 10, 20, mill. tops. IT’S over.
1. Why do you choose to live where you are?
I was born here, lived other areas of the US, but came home to be with older, health-challenged parents. Last parent died and I decided to stay because of familiarity with my area for gardening, foraging, hunting and health issues of my own that would make it impossible to explore and get to know a different state/area.
2. What do you like about your state?
In a matter of a few hours, I can be at the ocean or on top of a mountain.
3. What do you dislike about your state?
Hot, humid, redneck infestation
4. Are you happy or concerned about the direction your state is headed?
Not too happy and not too concerned. If you don’t belong to the “good ol’ boy club” you are not worthy. If you are a woman who speaks her mind, you are a mouthy #$%$!
5. Do you wish you lived in a different state? Which one? Why?
Not really wishing I lived in a different state, but if I had to move, it would be Texas, within 150 miles of Louisiana. Different mindset, good people, and the downside — wouldn’t lose the hurricanes, heat, and humidity.
What state are you from? In order for people to make sense of a review of a state, we need to know what state you are referring to.
Oregon here. I like it here; it’s where all my stuff is. And family too, I guess.
Pros: No sales tax, Mountains, deserts, forests…lots of nature.
Cons: Property taxes, too many hippies, Portlanders.
1. Family and work are here.
2. No state income tax. Decent support of 2A. Less restrictive than many states. Like the climate and variety: piney woods to coastal plains. State and local government less corrupt than many others. SJW’s do not run Texas.
3. Influx of losers and liberals from California and New York.
4. Cautiously optimistic with direction of Texas.
5. Not really. I would like to investigate Wyoming and Idaho.
What an interesting topic :)
Wow surprised to see PA up there near the top.
Go PA! LOL
We like PA:
First b/c we lived here our whole lives. Decent climate (not extreme cold or heat), natural resources especially spring water, wood for variety of uses
good climate for growing variety of produce, fruit trees do very well
good for our animals (lots of grass and plants they eat naturally).
We have friends who also live as sustain-ably as possible and we help each other. DH has a good job. Great cyber school for our DDs.
We are semi-rural, would love to be another 10-15 miles “out there” in the country.
Blessings to all~
Wife & I just returned from 2 weeks in Berks County, PA. visiting relatives and looking over my old stomping grounds after a 40 year absence to see if we wanted to move back “home'(Hamburg). The 93 degree temp almost killed us and we were glade to get back to Alaska. NO relatives. I must admit north Berks County is a good preppers paradise and there are many good areas to hide up against the Blue Mountains and it is tempting. We will be looking at Idaho next.
Army brought me here….And I love to leave the State to a place with mountains, far away from most people….Now, Texas is okay going east past DFW….El Paso, NOPE, NOPE and NOPE….Most racist place I ever lived at, and I spent time in the deep south….Okay, I am done ranting :)
@ Texas
Sorry Kiddo, only a 4.8 on the Rant-O-Meter, although I really get the idea you really don’t like El-Pas-Out. hehehe
Thought you were moving back to Europe or something like that?
NRP
Only a four something?? I lost my touch my friend…..sigh. Yes, we are heading back to Europe, but red tape and a ungodly amount of gov. servants sitting on paperwork to justify their paycheck is holding us up….
I will miss a few things from here and a few people I care about, but otherwise, nope….I was born in a commie country, and rest assured that what I have seen here in the last twenty plus years going in the wrong direction makes my heart go in pieces.
And I am fully aware going back to Europe is not going to be easy because of all these invaders bringing their crap over there. But, the reason is that I have the needed support to have a chance of making it with my kids (survivability) and like-minded people. Most everyone I have over there is conservative and yes they do have their w e a p o n s s t a s h e d a w a y waiting it out and be ready to d e f e n d…..:)
Glad you posted that on the ppl across the pond. Very concerned about them, and us…
JS, if an uprising happens over there, and it will because it is in the making right now, everyone will be fighting. I worry more about here.
Hawaii…
Why?
Born and raised here, tried moving to mainland about 20 something years ago but quickly realized everything is relative, and that the grass is not always greener.
Now however, our state and county is getting more out of whack, but from what I’m hearing it is out of whack everywhere. So my plan is to just homestead, try to stay out of the way as much as possible, and just get by, it’s good enough, at least I can grow food year round, and won’t freeze to death if the lights go out.
I am hopeful that something extreme happens that resets the government and destroys tourism and development and just puts a stop to the so called progress. Lots of good old school folks here, while they may not say it they all think and wish for the island home of our childhood to return. Greed of the few has ruined our paradise by selling out to development and tourism.
1. We chose to live here because no one else does. The taxes are under $500 on 16 acres with houses and out buildings. There are mountains, trees, great views, animals and friendly people.
2. Mostly the county we live in is the only conservative one in the state, They leave us alone as if we weren’t part of the state! The good is we live 160 miles one way from the major city and it is also the bad.
3. The proximity to Mexico, and the poverty is on the high side.
4. The state is not headed in a good direction as it is a sanctuary state. Maybe we will secede to AZ! We are on their eastern boarder.
5. If I lived in a different state I might go back to Alaska or to a state that didn’t have such a water problem.
Western Montana. Low population. Lots and lots of camping/fishing/hunting.
I live in northern Nevada.
Advantages:
1. It is a “dry” heat! LOL
2. Great for outdoor activities.
3. Firearm friendly.
4. No state income taxes
Disadvantages:
1. Too damn close to California
2. Too many damn Californians moving here.
3. High violent crime….rate…1-2 shootings per week. Could be worse I guess….think Chicago
4. Too much traffic….Californians again…..they still have not figured out how to drive in the snow or how to merge onto the freeway.
5. Did I mention too many Californians…..
I see a move to the Bitterroot Valley very soon.
I agree… I miss Reno. I lived there for some time… I would have rather lived further North – or further East of Reno… But, that’s where the job(s) were…. Northern Nevada ROCKS!
Why I chose New Hampshire, and the things I like about it…
-very low population density, esp. northern NH where we live
-I enjoy the mountains environment, beautiful scenery, lots of wilderness
-still within several+ hours drive to ‘family’ who live in southern New England
-favorable 2nd Amendment rights (a ‘shall issue’ state), open-carry w/out license
-there’s still some ‘Live Free or Die’ attitude up here
-small town atmosphere
-decent number of farmer types & self-reliant people
-almost non-existent crime up here (except for ‘cities’ down south e.g. Manchester, etc.)
-summer temps are tolerable, not too hot or humid all the time…
-enough rainfall so as not necessary to irrigate garden
-no state income tax or state sales tax
-seemingly somewhat controlled .gov spending here
A few things I don’t like about New Hampshire…
-fairly high property taxes, however there’s no income or sales tax
-long winters up here (I’m getting used to it…)
-did I say the winters were long? Plus, it can get wicked c-c-cold…)
-short growing season for the garden
Am I concerned about the direction of the State?
Yes, to an extent… as in all states, unfortunately the ‘cities’ rule (population density) with regards to political direction, and the cities here are located in the south, near Massachusetts – and are becoming more ‘left’ because of those who leave MA to live in southern NH – they are bringing in their left-leaning political ideals. Unfortunately, we have a left-leaning governor (wanting to spend more-more-more money), but fortunately we have a right-leaning state house of representatives and state senators who are keeping her in check…
Would I rather live somewhere else?
Not at the moment… ;)
I also chose northern NH over 30 yrs ago, for much of the same reasons. Lived in 2 very liberal states with high taxes, and got sick of liberal leanings. My wife and family voted w/our feet and left them behind. Down side is state is shifting towards the liberal side as more people moving in from Taxachusetts. Now too many vacation homes, filled w/inconsiderate massholes. But won’t leave at this point in my life,age and grandchildren keep us here. Would love to move to Wyoming, but wife would miss the grandkids.
@ Ken You summed NH up perfectly. It has been nice that the parties are forced to work out solutions but I have noticed it’s been getting much more polarized recently.
I live on the edge of southern NH but thankfully away from the NH Triangle (Manchester, Nashua, Salem). I’ve been eyeballing heading north but for now the job (mainly the commute) seems to be making that difficult. Guess I’ll tuck myself into one of the smaller towns and pray the MA immigration creep doesn’t swallow us up. There still are pockets down here fighting the good fight.
Lived in NH for most of my life and can’t think of moving.
@Willy My father grew up in Wyoming and I had a chance to go out there years ago (sadly to spread his ashes). I was stunned by how beautiful it was out there and if I ever decided to leave NH, it was high on my list as well.
Well, my screen name says it all! I guess now all will know why! :)
My wife and I live in Northern California. Mostly because of her family being close, also partly for my job.
The only things I like about this state are the weather and the proximity to both the coast and mountains.
What I dislike about this state would require much more typing than I’m prepared to do this early in the morning, but the 3 main “bullets” are, 1) Politics 2) Anti-gun laws and 3) Welfare recipients. I’m very concerned that CA will force out like minded people like those who read this blog.
I’d like to move to Idaho, we’d be closer to our grand-kids, but I’m not sure I’ll ever get my better half away from here!
Last thing, I really enjoy this blog, especially because of the comments! Even tho I can be a bit of a “lurker”, I have picked up a lot of useful information from some of the regular posters.
Thanks All!
Born and raised in Kentucky. All my family live here. If you don’t like the weather today just look forward to tomorrow because it will change.
TEXAS (wasn’t born here, but got here as fast as possible)
1. Military brought me here 30+ years ago. Decided that I DID NOT like snow or the extreme cold, snowy, dreary winters back ‘home”.
2. I like the warm weather. I like the HOT summers and the HOT food. I like that Texas keeps telling O’Bummer where he can stick all of his liberal, culture changing policies. I actually find the idea of secession something worth considering.
3. FIREANTS Hate ’em. The Torrential Rain/Drought cycle. We are currently on the rain side of it. I just saw on FB a sign that read “70% of Earth is covered in water. 69% of it isn’t Texas right now.
4. I am, for the most part, happy with the way Texas is run. We just recently enacted “Open Carry” which outsiders claimed would lead to “Ole West” shoot outs and gunfighter street duels. Didn’t, of course. I believe that Texas is going to continue on a conservative, states right, individual rights course. PROVIDED that the influx of Californian and New York immigrants don’t try to recreate their home states.
5. Live in a different state? OMG! Why? Texas has everything I truly want, like or need. I have been prepping ever since Y2K when I started buying silver and stocking up food supplies. My son is also a firm believer in the need to prep and we make a good team. We have built raised beds for veggies and a water storage system.
Thanks for the blog.
T2S, I agree with you on everything you said…remember I mentioned El Paso….its all the illegal border crossers and the issues they bring with them coupled with their ‘you owe me all of it’ attitudes. Been to the other side of TX and I like it….wish I could find a job that side and move….
Thirsty in Cali. and floating in Tex. DARPA weather warfare full throttle playing with your lives. Getting the slaves to move to high rent closets in mega cities under Agenda 2030. All part of the plan.
1. Why do you choose to live where you are?
Born here, family, employment
2. What do you like about your state?
Low cost of living and good wages
3. What do you dislike about your state?
Can be a bit crowded population wise
4. Are you happy or concerned about the direction your state is headed?
Not really
5. Do you wish you lived in a different state? Which one? Why?
One more year and I will retire. I’m thinking summer in the North Carolina/Tennessee mountains and winter in Arizona. Reason, weather and recreation opportunities.
Some of you seem to be forgetting to tell us which state you live in before you answer the questions… (if that’s intentional, that’s okay of course) ;)
Why I chose Florida:
Growing up in New England, then spending time in Vietnam (courtesy of Uncle Sam), returning home, spending one winter, saying goodbye to fighting winters and all that goes with it. I headed South, ending up about as far south as I could possibly get without leaving the country. This was long before the Prepping Movement started. Now, after living here for 50 years, I believe I made the right choice when I did. Due to my location, it is possible for me to actually live off the land (and sea) without leaving home. People dream about leaving it all and living on a tropical island. I’ve come as close to that as possible.
1. Alaska is about as far away from the madness of the consumer based US and still be an American.
2. It is still wild.
3. Politics. Long DARK winters can get long and dark….
4. I don’t like that there are too many who would plunder the resources for quick profit.
5. We’ll stay till we die here. We invested our lives here and other places look kinda crazy to us.
But it is turning into California.
I’m in Virginia, by choice. But that choice was made almost 30 years ago.
1. Why do you choose to live where you are?
2. What do you like about your state?
3. What do you dislike about your state?
4. Are you happy or concerned about the direction your state is headed?
5. Do you wish you lived in a different state? Which one? Why?
I moved to Virginia because the countryside and mountains were calling me. I fled Maryland. No regrets whatsoever.
I like the topography of Virginia, the long history of Virginia, and the variety of interesting sites to visit. Virginia isn’t far from the Atlantic Ocean if I want to suffer-the-crowds. I prefer the rivers, especially for whitewater fun and fly fishing.
I dislike how such a conservative state like Virginia is being ruled by only 3 Democrat Districts. I have a very strong dislike of liberals and don’t ‘hold back.'(Needless to say, I don’t go into those 3 Districts!)
So many states have changed in the past 10 years due to the illegal immigration and intentional flooding of undocumented “refugee” unknowns. As this worsens, crime and the tax burdens in the states most affected will only get worse. We love the west but with the illegals, water rights issues, and the blatant over-reach of private property by the Federal-es, we won’t move to the West as we once thought we would do upon retirement.
We then began researching Texas but they are flooded with illegals. Texas has also accepted major Federal funds to house thousands of illegals/refugees. So many people believe Texas is such a free state but few look at the workings of Rick Perry and his establishment-agenda.
We have been researching southern Kentucky as a retirement area but now that I am homeschooling, we will probably remain in this area of Virginia. At least for 5-6 more years. If we moved, we would want less house, more land. With the current political/economic climate, I doubt we move.
I heard that speeding tickets in Virginia are $1,500. Is that true?
Wow….I don’t know.
I don’t speed and no one I know has ever said anything to me about such a high ticket price. That said, there are traffic cameras on about 1/3 of the intersections now and some of the larger towns have cameras all over (many are on the poles). I avoid those places!
Most cops stay on the divided highways and interstates. We don’t see any speed-traps on the back roads, even though MANY drivers are speeding.
I’ve lived in So Calif all my life, hubby most of his life. We are still here because of family (including elderly in-laws) and our business is here. We cannot move the business, so until we can sell and retire we are here.
We are not typical Californians (or at least big-city Californians). We are conservative, not liberal. We do not measure our success by what we drive or what we wear. We do not eat tofu or follow any of the weird food fads that so many people associate with people from here (for a while people thought it was hip to eat only raw foods – nothing cooked – ugh!). I understand why people from outside CA can’t stand people from here – but please keep an open mind because not all of us are idiots.
Love the weather here – no hurricanes or blizzards. Mountains and beaches are readily available to us.
Don’t like the traffic, the very left-leaning state govt and high taxes. Very concerned about the direction the state is headed, but that seems to be a concern in many other states as well. Frankly, I am not happy with the direction the entire country is going right now.
We’ve seen areas in northern Nevada, Idaho and Montana that we really like. But, since we are tied to So Cal for a while longer, we are looking for a second home in the Sierras. We’ve found a couple of communities that are a great fit for us, but nothing for sale in those areas right now. This plan does not get us out of the state, but will give us a home away from the cities/suburbs and put us in a place where folks seem to be more like us.
Hi So Cal Gal! It’s great to know I’m not alone in this stupid state, at least as far as the way we think! We are really outnumbered… not only by the populous but probably by the elected criminals as well!
I know, Rob. It seems like every day we are being hit with bad news from the politicians that I never voted for. Sigh!
I’ve ranted a few times here about my frustrations with the politics, high costs of living and doing business, etc… but we can’t just pick up and go so we are working on next-best plans for now. Meantime, I enjoy the weather and keep on prepping. ;)
In Nor Cal here also Rob.
Of course that covers a rather large area doesn’t it LOL. I’m up in the Sierra’s and love it. Do I hate the politics, YES, I live in a county were the Sheriff supports people having guns and encourages CCW applications. He also has written a letter to our VP stating he would not enforce any law he considers against the constitution. Not many liberals where I live but great hunting and fishing and some of the most beautiful country in the world.
What’s wrong with Raw Foods and tofu? Other than the fact that it just sounds stupid and gross… Properly prepared it can be amazing.
OK >>>> I’m leaving now.. ;>)
You must live in CA—tofu
Alright, you caught me! But actually my late grandfather, (rest his soul), a blue-blood New Englander if there ever was one, introduced me to it as a child in the 70’s. Way before it was hipster-feed.
McGyver,
Hahaha! I figure celebrities are the ones who get this stuff started. I remember years ago some celeb came out and said they only drink room temperature water because some quack doctor said cold water contributes to weight gain… so no one wanted to drink cold water for a long time after that… I mean, you just can’t fix stupid.
What’s sad is that people think everyone from CA is like that. I just have to have a sense of humor about it and try to win people over with my charm ;)
RE: drinking cold water. I never knew that was a fad or ‘thing’. But the Chinese believe strongly that cold water is just generally bad for your health. Any time I’m at a Chinese restaurant and ask for ice water, they look hesitant, as if I’m asking for poison. They bring the cup, with about three little ice cubes floating at the top.
I live in a red neck belt in Oregon but yesterday required a doc’s visit for dw in the liberal center of Oregon (Eugene), I don’t know how people can live that way, it reminds me of a ant farm. My gd is going to college there and always complaining of not having enough money for food ” while she puffs on a Marlboro and follows up with a joint” so I looked up the local food bank, there is about ten official ones in Eugene. They are even building little shacks for the homeless people so they don’t have to move on to a different city, those that choose to live there deserve everything that comes their way.
JD
Take a drive out to the eastern side of the state beyond Bend/Prinville/Mitchell you will know the way. One warning it gets windy and very cold in certain areas so if you are interested, ask the locals at the stores when window shopping.
There are areas out there that are conservative, ranches, share family values and thankfully not over run with liberals(do last long in those areas).
Another area of family roots, as I tell our family our ancestors did not let any moss grow under their toes! :-)
JD
Sorry the liberals DO “not” last long out there.
My computer is acting up and just had it for repairs, have been told it is firefox that is having issues.
Antique collected, we take a lot of trips over there, thinking seriously about buying 20 acres in Christmas Valley, have several friends there.
JD
Now that is one place we have driven by but never stopped as we were always on our way to see my uncle. My step children hunt the rabbits up there with their step dad every year. Good training experience for them since we are not in a position for dh to teach them.
I’m in Oregon, a native. Grew up on the coast in the 50’s and 60’s.
The state has changed a lot and now there are too many people, lots of illegals and a lot of smog. The Portland/Willamette Valley run the state.
It’s still a pretty place with close proximity to beaches, mountains and desert.
No sales tax but high property tax, especially in the valley.
I would consider moving across the state or to Montana, Idaho but moving is expensive and if your not really familiar with an area you can easily make a bad move. I would definitely like less people around me.
Florida. Here because of family.
I love the never-ending growing season here. I can grow “yankee” crops through the winter and tropical stuff through hurricane season, formerly known as summer. I greatly dislike the bugs we have to deal with, parasite issues with the goats, and all kinds of bugs attacking the garden. I don’t give two hoots about our state politics. I do wish I lived a little farther north in Florida….Ocala is nice and all points north of that appeal to me more than the southeast coast!
New-Mexico here, the Four Corners Area actually, just next to CO.
1. Why do you choose to live where you are?
Moved to the area 35 years ago, got wayyyyy tired of Calif even back in the 80’s, found a little land and good people, a peaceful way of life here, wages are crapo but Life is not always about money…. Right?
2. What do you like about your state?
A LOT of things here, GREAT outdoor activities (Hunting, fishing, camping, hiking, skiing, you name it), low property and income taxes, the weather is good 90% of the time, the politics is reasonable and crime rate is moderately low compared to most states, OHHHH and NO earthquakes/hurricanes/tornadoes/blizzards/volcanoes/ice-storms/120Deg-heat, and believe it or not, we actually have Water here…. Calif HAHAHA
3. What do you dislike about your state?
The influx of illegals, open boarders, Thank you very much O-bummer. The fact that only 6% of the “land” in the state is privately owned.
4. Are you happy or concerned about the direction your state is headed?
No, most of the people/government have their heads on straight.
5. Do you wish you lived in a different state? Which one? Why?
Retiring in 2 years and have been looking in Wyoming and Montana, some in Idaho, but each time I find a hunk of land I compare it to what I have now… Have no desire to move to Fungus Corner or East of the Mississippi, probably just going to sit tight and see what happens.
Good poll Ken, is interesting to read the other responses.
NRP
Tennessee is home.
Great country for hunting and fishing. No state tax.
Getting too populated… people trying to leave the cities..
If money was not a concern, I’d love to move where the “lights aren’t”..(the wife and I saw a map of the US at night, lots of areas were dark no lights, we thought that would be a great place to live…:)
John b I like that……where the “lights aren’t”.
1) Why do we stay? For years we stayed here due to younger family member of mine, and dh had family in another section of this state.
2)The winter weather, it is not extremely cold for dh’s health.
3)Run by extreme liberals who believe we are the gold mine and they can treat us like their children. IF it is bad for us they will make sure to take it away so we do not have to think for ourselves.
4) Concerned, they have more and more gun laws that are being passed which violate our rights to gun ownership under the US Constitution. The public has no say in what is occurring, and for representation…..ah that went down the toilet when the south elected the socialists.
5) One that allows you to own your guns without jumping through every hoop known to man. In an area the Sheriff is the law, an not some alphabet soup label that ‘thinks’ it has the jurisdiction over them.
There are few states that we are looking at, they have bare land for sale. These properties meet two major must haves water(potable water), outside of a town, yet medical assistance is not that far away. At the present time S. Dakota(land of my ancestors), Wyoming(dh loves it), Idaho, Nevada-just over the border have friends that live in the area.
Missed the most important notice……Northern CA. Wish we were the true State of Jefferson, & liberated from sac brown nose.
I live in Oregon.
I came here from California for the cash.
I was a state worker when the movie-star governator was going to pay me in IOU’s.(He is, once again, making movies- thank God.)
Governor Pete Wilson did this in 1992 for 8 months.(So, YES, it can happen.)
I got tired of the droughts and shortages of both water and money so we moved out of California in the midst of the great recession.
My spouse got tired of the hot weather in the summer. (my dog got tired of burning her feet on hot sidewalks- Walk your dog in the early morning in the summer.)
I got tired of the changing and tightening laws on firearms and ammunition legislation.
We live on the west side of the Cascades but at the base of the foothills. We were rural but have become suburbs within the last 5 years.
We like the rain after years of drought. We know many local farmers and barter for goods (produce and meat) for services (depredation hunting of pest species)
My wife and I are both licensed medical workers. We decided to become part of the brain-drain from the People’s Republic of California almost 7 years ago and use our licenses and skills in another hospital in another state.
We are in good company as I remember the following companies leave California to succeed elsewhere: Buck Knives left El Cajon for Idaho, Barrett Rifles left California for the southeast/midwest.(wrote a full page ad telling LAPD that they would no longer service their rifles in their armory after passage of the 50 caliber ban in Los Angeles.) Sierra Bullets left East LA for the mid-west back in the 1950’s.
We stay away from Portland. Too many people trying too hard to be weird.(I work within an insane asylum – I am not impressed) After: seeing over 200 naked bicycle riders in Critical Mass in San Francisco, accidentally marching in the Annual Gay Pride Parade (I was trying to get to the BART station – honestly!) and having been a responding officer in the Rodney King Riots, I’ve seen weird. (not to mention the 5+ years of driving ambulance.)
The funny thing about the New Portland Hipsters is they have a common uniform: They slap a “Keep Portland Weird sticker on the back of their Volvo or Land Rover discovery, wear clothes made by North Face or Columbia, wear shoes made by Keen Tie their gray hair back in a pony tail, they drink Pinot Noir (the only grape that does well up here) and gather in groups to snicker about how unique they are (and how cheap property is up here).
Most are also California refugees like me, but they have more money and are generally Caucasian. I see and hear anger coming from the people who lived and grew up in Portland for decades and are being displaced.(Mostly older and many are African-American.)
Sorry neighbors, We are from California – the good news is: we are not breeding.
End of rant. Hope you found it entertaining.
You forgot to add that Portland also has it’s own naked bike ride. : )
CaliRefugee,
I found it highly entertaining!
I find myself constantly having to explain to people not from CA that not all of us are superficial and self-absorbed. And, I may steal your line about “not breeding”, perhaps to provide some comic relief as people eye-ball us assuming we must be ultra-liberal because we come from CA. :)
So Cal GAL, I lived in your God forsaken state once and here’s what I learned. First, there are a lot of red necks and ranchers who are really good people, farmers that are ultra conservative, and a lot of folks living in cities because of their job who just can’t wait to get out.
Here in lies the problem, the city folk have been used to their lifestyle so long it becomes a part of them so when they move out eventually they revert back to their city ways and try to change the lifestyle of the communities they couldn’t wait to get to, this is exactly what happened to Eugene Ore, when I was a young person it was just as conservative place as you could find. END OF LECTURE.
JD,
Well, I guess the good news is that I have never been a Liberal so I’m not looking to turn any community toward liberal thinking. The rest of the good news is we are not looking to move to OR, so I am not one of the Californians who is or will be making you crazy.
I am simply here to torment you with stories about how stupid many of my fellow Californians are ;)
So cal gal, my neighbor and best friend is a cali transplant.
JD,
That’s great! There’s hope for a few of us conservative Californians yet!
So cal gal, what I think would be interesting if the universe doesn’t implode and we live long enough would be to have a huge get together at some central location like Alturice (probably spelled wrong). A person gets a image of people by communicating on a blog like this, I’ll just bet there would be some totally surprised people. We wouldn’t be anything like we imagined to each other.
I agree… we all get a mental picture of who we think we are “talking” to – and most of the pictures are probably wrong by a mile. Would be fun to actually get to meet everyone.
Even my image of myself is different from the reality, and I see myself in the mirror every day! :)
JD-
I think what you said is true. Whether they mean to or not a big migration changes the area and the majority that move will vote for the same things that caused them to move in the first place.
It isn’t just “Oregon” I bet if you look around you will find similar sentiments in lots of places. It boils down to too many people. Look what happened to states that had ‘fracking’ or places with major senior migration.
It still comes down to my native state has been trampled and it’s pretty sad.
e. slope colo. too! I’m a native, father here in 1938. State of Denverstan.
Excuse me, planet of Boulder, as it is called by natives, but not the CA owned tv and papers
They should name it the global socialist state of Denver. (wow, my first rant)
wow we are becoming city states!
NJ… Only until I can escape this Marxist run Cesspool…….
1. Why do you choose to live where you are?
Because I am unemployed and stuck here….
2. What do you like about your state? It is an hour from the shore, NYC and the mountains.
3. What do you dislike about your state? It is run by a group of corrupt over taxing Marxist and the screwed up Unconstitutional gun laws….
4. Are you happy or concerned about the direction your state is headed? Concerned- It well on the way to becoming the next Detroit….
5. Do you wish you lived in a different state? Which one? Why?1. Why do you choose to live where you are? I want to move to “America” a red state with no anti-gun laws and where there are decent paying jobs….
The Great State of New Hampshire here.
Likes:
Independent Spirit.
Shall issue state.
Rural nature of the state.
Natural beauty.
Dislikes:
Proximity to the Peoples Republic of Massachusetts.
Southern tier moving politically left due to influx of residents from aforementioned Socialist State.
Free State whack jobs promoting anarchy is the SW corner of State.
New York here, born and raised. Taxes suck, people running it are liberals but I’m in western south part where there is abundance of state land and deer. Beautiful place to live, just to bad we are connected with NY city.
Born & raised in NYC and I couldn’t agree with you more Red. Hoping that secession movement comes to fruition.
Wow, we are all becoming city states. State of denver here. Socialist NWO.
San Diego here.
Was brought here at 6 months when dad retired after 30 years in Navy. All Moms relatives were from here.
Love the climate although it would be nice to see weather sometime in my life. Love the ocean, mountains and deserts and low humidity compared to other parts of the country. Would find it very hard to leave.
Politics? It is what it is. Easy to get along with people and not so easy to get long with people. Just like every place else. Like attracts like. Pogo aid it best “We are the enemy”. Running away to escape “something” has a high rate of failure.
Biggest downside is very high cost of living. Have managed so far but if forced to move it would be to another western state. Northern or eastern Arizona. Maybe to establish residence and then travel around country in an R.V. To finally see the “weather” of course. Maybe even to Four Corners to annoy NPR. Just kidding!
@ Ladywest
The Four Corners is a very large area (only place in the US having 4 states coming together), and a LOT of great people here, and some not so nice, but that’s way we own Backhoes here… HAHAHA
As I have said, I moved from SD in 81, best move I have EVER done, and do NOT look back a single bit, matter of fact, I vow I will NEVER set foot in Calif again, period. Would take too long to disarm the vehicle and GHB, Hell even Blue carries a spare for me in a Bug-Out situation… LOL
Ohhhh and BTW, the changing of seasons is FANTASTIC.
NRP
I am in Catron County, can’t get more conservative than that. Are you in Farmington?
@ old lady
Actually work in Farmington, live up north a bit
NRP
Well I’m in Tennessee.
I live here because I’m too far north to be a Georgian, Alabamian or Mississippian and too far east to be an Arkansan or Missourian and too far south to be a Kentuckian or Virginian and too far west to be a North Carolinian.
Why am I here? I guess I’ll have to blame great-great-great-great-great-granddaddy for accepting a Revolutionary War land grant at the confluence of the Clinch and Powell Rivers. What do I like about it? Well we’ve got lots of well-broke-in mountains and most of them are public land.
We’ve large numbers of people who follow the 11th Commandment. You know, the one that goes, “Thou shalt mind thine own damned business.” If a fellow holds out his hand it’s generally to offer a greeting or assistance and seldom to require you to put something in it. No real income tax and a constitutional prohibition on enacting one.
What don’t I like? Well, it will an imposition on my survivors to fulfill my childhood desire to be buried at sea.
You could always do a Viking Funeral in a wood row boat on a lake. Would that work?LOL!
Hey OldGuy!
East TN is great! Just wish I didn’t live right in the middle between 2 nuclear plants!
I live in Indiana. Born and raised. It’s a good rural state, at least where I live. Most people are friendly. I would feel happier with a new governor. He’s to into the girly parts and trying to rule our bodies and feelings. It’s our decision what we want to do. The state should not be involved. It’s between the Drs. and the women. I wish the state would jump into letting the state do its thing and the Feds concentrate on more important things.
Missouri here.
Live here because of family and work. In the country areas its still freedom loving and low gov. influence. My county does not have any type of local codes, building a house (probably) no money spent on permits. Don’t have to big of dislikes. The weather can have a wide range and some don’t deal with that so well. The direction of the state seems alright. Ken, this is a way better poll than I envisioned. I will now stop asking for it.
1. Why do you choose to live where you are?
I spent my summers in Minnesota with my grandparents at their lake cabin up north most my life. I had been and lived elsewhere around the country but found no tornadoes, no hurricanes, no earthquakes, no unbearable heat, no floods, and no volcanoes. It was a place that made me feel like home.
2. What do you like about your state?
I like northern Minnesota (not southern so much) for its natural resources, few people, the history, the lakes, the wildness, the milder summers, and I have very low property taxes of which I pay $200 yr on a pine plantation and decent home, rather remote but close enough for other amenities 20 minutes away in a very small town.
3. What do you dislike about your state?
It gets bitter cold in winter that people leave the area if they have two homes, but I stay put and being prepared for winter is important to survive. My cousin’s husband left his home down south in Minneapolis last winter on a walk and was found dead from exposure just wearing a light coat.
4. Are you happy or concerned about the direction your state is headed?
I am concerned if Republicans lose the house this election. They have kept Minnesota out of debt and brought in a $900 million surplus, and kept the state free of gun bans and so have the hunters in this state. Problem is most the people vote democrat in presidential elections because they believe the lies and propaganda the left spews out. They are concentrated in the larger cities but there are some morons that live in the area that moved here from the twin cities, carrying attitude.
5. Do you wish you lived in a different state? Which one? Why?
Every state I stayed in for a few weeks or lived in out west, down south, and out east all had parts of them that reminded me of Northern Minnesota. They just made me want to move here even more. If I had to move, I’d move further north even more remote, away from tourist areas, but that may happen after I retire.
1. Why do you choose to live where you are?
– Mid-1986, 17 years old. Had to escape a bad family situation. Looked on a map to see how far away I could get and still be in the continental US. Ahh yes, Los Angeles. That’ll do it. Buh-bye.
2. What do you like about your state?
– Great choice of food. Favorable weather. Plenty of opportunity to earn a living. And yes, the eclectic people. I came from the upper mid-west. Home to many closed-minded, pasty-white, pseudo-religious, overly-judgmental, land whales who kept insisting I should endeavor to be more like them.
3. What do you dislike about your state?
– 30 years later, we are now definitely too crowded. Mush-head liberals in charge. Taxes!!
4. Are you happy or concerned about the direction your state is headed?
– Quite concerned actually. But hopeful too, since Ronaldus Maximus Reagan was product of California after leaving Illinois (just like me). So there is hope. And this year, California my surprise everyone at election time.
5. Do you wish you lived in a different state? Which one? Why?
– Not at the moment. I do not want to retire here. But for right now it is home. Later in life, Idaho or Montana seems to be calling my name.
Great topic!
I live in Charlotte North Carolina—I was born here.
I want to move to Adirondacks–hear Rachael Ray talking how beautiful it is.
Tired of city life & always wanted to live in the country so I could have a
horse.
I live 2 miles from downtown, neighborhood is changing, too many people for me & too noisy.
Prices on everything here is just too high–
I was born here and never really wanted to live anywhere specific, so anywhere else is included by default. I’d like to move somewhere that has more water and lower land prices, although each place seems to have its own drawbacks so I’ll probably stay where I am.
Central Illinois. We were both born here and have family nearby. I know it’s a messed up state, but we operate a grain farm, and there’s no moving dirt to another location. We’re 4 hours from Shitcago and 1 1/2 from St. Louis, and 30 minutes to some reasonable shopping. It’s kinda nice out here in the stix!
We also live in central IL. You must be located pretty close to us. We live in Bond co. Small world I guess.
1. We were born in this area.
2. We enjoy having all 4 seasons.
3. Dislike all the corruption,lies,overspending and bankrupting the state.yadda yadda yadda. We have a pedigree of criminal activity from our state leaders. I think 3 out of the last 5 governors received a membership to our well pampered state country club.
4. See answer # 3.
5. If we had to relocate, we would probably move back to Cajun Country. We spent about 10 years down there and very much enjoyed the Coon Ass culture. Lots of good people and memories.
North Macoupin here. Good to know there are others nearby trying to be self reliant.
Guess I should park in this small group. Central IL also, crappy state and corrupt govmnt. Born and raised here, all my family is here and grama aint about to move from those two little grandsons. Even tho this is a big liberal state I have lots of like minded friends as far as being conservative. We love to hunt and fish and the corn fed venison is the best you can eat. Like the four seasons, hate the hell hole Chicago and live three hrs south of there. Great farm country with rich fertile soil and love working the ground especially harvest. Final’ly got conceal carry. There’s a few worse places to live I reckon. Blessings to all here.
Connecticut here.
1. Why do you choose to live where you are?
2. What do you like about your state?
3. What do you dislike about your state?
4. Are you happy or concerned about the direction your state is headed?
5. Do you wish you lived in a different state? Which one? Why?
1. We live here because most of the family lives here.
2. I can honestly say there is nothing I like about my state.
3. What I dislike, oh my, where do I begin. First off, taxes are killing us. Our governor loves to spend our money and keeps increasing various taxes, so much so that not only people, but businesses are leaving the state in droves. People who retire here can’t afford to stay here, so they leave. I expect that at this rate this state will start to look like Detroit in a few years. As it is, vacant bank owned houses are plentiful. On our street alone, there are 5 vacant houses out of about 17 houses.
4. No I am not happy with the direction of my state.(See answers in #3)
5. I would love to move to either Vermont or Maine.
I can see that I am the only one left in my state (one vote) that doesn’t surprise me. Our governor has chased most of people out of the state. I guess that could be a good thing as we will be less congested for when the SHTF.
Okay, realized the only thing I do like is that we do have 4 distinct seasons. Although I guess anywhere in New England would provide the same, so never mind.
Yukon Territory
1 – 186,000 sq miles, 34,000 people, 23,000 of which live in our only city. I live a hundred miles from the city, 10 miles from a small village, I have a neighbor, he’s 4 miles away. This is a long winded way of saying “elbow room”
2- very few roads, there’s a lot of WILD country.
3- Most of what I dislike is federally mandated, not territorial. The growing season is very short and the winters are long but you just work around that.
4-Our population dropped slightly the last couple years, I live in fear that trend may reverse itself!?
I would not be willing leave, ever.
Ken – forgive me but I can’t help but interject a comment here:
Much has been said about ‘Hurricanes’ here, as if they are the end of civilization. Having been through several over the years, I can say:
1. You get plenty of warning to get ready for them.
2. After they pass through, you just clean up and go on.
Just a ‘bump in the road’.
In addition to my ‘Hurricanes’ comment – the last one to come through was 12 years ago (2004), so they are certainly not an annual event!
We live on the right side of Washington. We grew up on the left side, but realized when things start crashing down we do not want to be around a lot of people, especially socialist types. They whine too much. We would prefer to secede from the other side of the state.
We like our weather, arable land, small population county and mostly people with a conservative mindset. We also have abundant game in our area.
Our state is run by democrat/socialist politicians and is going downhill in our opinion, along with most of the country. We have a state sales tax of 8% but no income tax. Property taxes are average.
We do have open carry, but I cannot gift my son a firearm without doing a background check. Registration to my way of thinking. Oh wait, I sold all my guns a few years ago.
Interesting article and good posts.
Ken, great question! I often wondered where most of us that follow you were from. Some of us freely give that info, while others you can sort of guess their location. What I really enjoy about this site is how you post a topic and add your thoughts which are almost immediately followed by some of your most loyal bunch. Every post has interesting perspectives and most of the time knowledgeable responses/comments. I especially enjoy the commentary from some of the “seasoned” folk(NRP-love your wisdom brother). Keep on prepping and God bless!!
@ haha
OUCH!!!! “Seasoned”??? HAHAHA, to be honest that’s the best thing I have been called today :-)
I thank you for the compliment, but I’m just me, and if Ken and the rest can help anyone even in the slightest, than this is ALL worth the time and effort, JMHO.
NRP-da-well-seasoned, like a mean old crusty batch of dried up jerky HAHAHAHA
No-no, more like a well seasoned Dutch Oven that makes the next thing taste better and better!! LMAO hahahaha You Guys and Gals ROCK!!!
Naaah, NRP has the chilles too, hot and spicy for the jerky , now thats some good seasonig there lol….
@ Texas
You got that right, planted 6 Thai-Dragon, 6 Habanero, 12 Hot-Jalapeno, 3 Scorpion and 6 Ghost peppers…. HAHAHA That’s not including all the “Baby Peppers” :-) I do love my peppers…….
NRP
LOL, NRP, who needs brass when you have the peppers…the ghost ones are just right to make everyone run in the opposite direction :)
NRP,
You’re so funny!
If it helps… when I read “seasoned” I thought of a cast iron skillet myself- I would never have thought of you as an old piece of jerky… so “seasoned” in a good way! ;)
I live in Nova Scotia, a beautiful place to live! Climate is decent, people are nice, crime is low. My heaven on earth, except for the tax rate! LOL
I’m one of the many people in North Carolina
1. Why do you choose to live where you are?
Low cost of living, low crime rate, good salary, purchasing power of my money.
2. What do you like about your state?
See above, plus 3 hours to the mountains, 3.5 hours to the sea.
3. What do you dislike about your state?
The liberals are forcing changes because of the .03% LGBT community
4. Are you happy or concerned about the direction your state is headed?
Concerned, but I think conservative values will prevail
5. Do you wish you lived in a different state? Which one? Why?
I’m happy here.
I have lived right at the border between Quebec and Ontario my entire life, flip flopping from one to the other but basically hanging around the same locale for family reasons and out of familiarity – the devil you know rather than the one you don’t. Finally got far enough away from the Francophone fascists to confidently say I will never live in there again. Although only an hour and a half away the difference in this small community is like night and day.
#2 It isn’t Quebec [ getting the picture ? ]
#3 Ontario is a mismanaged progressive train wreck in worse shape than California, full of voters who fit the definition of insanity by repeatedly putting the same idiots in power and expecting different results.
#4 Getting dizzy from swirling around the drain pipe and staring into the black hole of the future.
# 5 – until about 8 years ago I always thought I might prefer the American lifestyle – freedom of speech, 2’nd amendment, more embracing of entrepreneurs, etc. with Idaho, Texas or New Hampshire at the top of the list [ only having been to N.H. but loving the geography and attitude there. ]
Unfortunately up here in the frozen north it’s not too cold for unicorns so liberals control the media and the purse strings pretty much nationwide. If it were financially possible I would investigate New Zealand for it’s climate, English speaking majority and relatively [ compared to Britain ] reasonable gun laws. Sorry for running on, didn’t mean to write a book.
There’s a lot of toilet paper in Can.. Didn’t Can. sell all the state gold bullion recently?
Sorry, just had to add, do you know what our Canadian flag represents ? The two seasons, winter and fall [autumn leaf on snow] and no matter if you choose the left or the right you are hemmed in by red tape !
I like to say I live in Jefferson. Currently it is a state of mind with the hope of splitting off from northern California along with parts of southern Oregon. There was actually a serious attempt at doing so in 1941 but World War II got in the way. It would be nice to get away from Sacramento and Portland’s ultra liberals as well as those ultra-hip future zombies living in L.A. and the surrounding areas.
My soon to be single stepdaughter was told the area was “unhealthy” for her children by her L.A. in-laws. She replied what’s unhealthy about clean air instead of smog? Abundant clean water instead of an epic drought. School less than a mile away and the students don’t have to wear uniforms to avoid pissing off the wrong gang. No drive by shootings because we have no gangs. No traffic jams, no road-rage, no mud slides no raging neighborhood fires because the canyons caught fire again. A five minute commute to work instead of an hour each way in LA traffic.
If her daughter wants to get into a fight she does it with a fish on the end of her line. It’s never to hot and it hardly ever freezes. Whats not to like? Living on the border we kind of consider ourselves one big community with a state line running though it. I love it here.
I live in one of the Canadian prairie prov.
Some of the things I like about our area is there are no poisonous snakes or spiders. We are also not in an earthquake, tornado, hurricane, or flood zone. We have a warm summer so we can grow a good garden…no avocados, oranges or pineapples though. Winters are cold but one learns to adapt & prepare. We have an abundance of poplar for firewood on our property which keeps us toasty warm in the winter.
Virginia here.
Born and raised here. The family goes back many generations, so we have history here.
I love the beauty of the state, with it’s 4 seasons. We live in a rural area with family close by and good neighbors. We can garden year round, we live on a river that we irrigate from. I don’t know that I could move anywhere else.
I am concerned about the liberal direction our state is heading in. It is sad that several very blue population areas dictate how the rest of the state goes. And we have an idiot for a Governor.
TEXAS is my state, came here b/c of military, looked around and said YES! Been here over 20 yrs. Came from Massachusetts (or rather TAX-achusetts).
Things I like: people, openness, conservative, private property rights, small Gov.
Things I hate: Liberals moving in w/their attitudes of ” the Gov. should do this for us, the Gov. should do that for us”, Growing HUMAN population.
Will I leave – ONLY if I’m CARRIED OUT/AWAY.
I see 7 votes for S.C. Anyone near Columbia?
Florida
I was raised here. Joined the Navy after high school and spent time on both coasts, and all over the world.
Came back to help Mom take care of my aging Grandparents(who mostly raised me) and stayed.
What I like– no income tax, reasonable property taxes, and housing prices.
What I do not like– to many obstinate Yankees who come here and want to make Florida like–‘back home”.
Do not come here, we have bugs, snakes and gators, did I mention the bugs?
Two interstate roads out and 19 million monkeys trying to exist in an emergency. That’s not going to be fun. MPG – two miles on a tank of gas and no potty breaks. Hope everyone has super cold A/C and plenty of Disney videos.
Telling everyone what state I’m in may not be the best when it comes to operational security, but I figure that the government already knows who and where I am, and the rest of you are too busy taking care of yourselves to try to find me.
I’m in Missouri, the “show me” state, where you have to prove what you say, since we don’t believe everything we hear–unless it’s on the internet, of course!
1. I moved to MO to be near a family member who almost immediately moved away with a job transfer. Go figure. I’ve thought about leaving, and I may within a few years, but for now it makes sense to stay and let my son finish high school.
2. I love the mountains here (even though they’re officially “hills”), the many lakes, rivers, and streams, the nice mix of weather, the mostly conservative politics (if we just didn’t have Kansas City or St. Louis in the state!), and the fact that we are pretty much the buckle of the Bible Belt.
3. I don’t like that the state is starting to lean more liberal as the two largest cities expand, and I hate that it takes forever to get hot. (That may just be due to growing up in south Texas, where it’s hot nine months of the year.)
4. Concerned about the direction my state is headed? Yes, but it’s really a concern for the nation as a whole. I don’t think that my state is alone by any means.
5. I’m content with where I am, for the most part. I do wish that I were in a smaller town, and I may move to one of them. Most of my family is still in Texas, though, so if I move anywhere, it will probably be there. There’s a lot to love about Texas, and I still consider myself a “Texan”–just a displaced one. One thing is for sure: whenever I move, it will be with thoughts of TEOTWAKI and where it makes sense to be. My last move took that into account to some extent (smaller town, house with room for food storage), but not as much as my next move will.
East Texas.
1. Moved here for business reasons 20 years ago and we wanted to move back south.
2. We enjoy the mild winters and Texas culture.
3. Sometimes the heat is a bit much. But my biggest concern is the crime. There is a lot more of it here than the rural area of Indiana and Ohio from where we were born and raised.
4. There are too many illegals coming into the state. Also, too many people from other states that will change its direction.
5. We are considering a move to the Alabama coast. Mainly for family reasons. I would appreciate input from anyone on the blog familiar with the coastal area of Alabama.
I’ve lived in the Birmingham area for the last 18 years and have frequently visited the AL gulf coast. I would move to the coast in a heartbeat if the opportunity presented itself. Waterfront property is high. Definitely lower bayside instead of oceanfront. Unlimited supply of seafood. However it does get a bit crowded. Not sure what kind of input you’re looking for. Let me know if I can help in any way.
Currently in NY, NYC area, thankfully not Manhattan !
1. Why do you choose to live where you are?
Met my bride here, the last of 5, she won’t leave her mom here alone. Though mom is opening up to moving west.
2. What do you like about your state?
Upstate NY is beautiful, and 180 degree opposite of the downstate area.
3. What do you dislike about your state?
Downstate area has a bought and paid for liberal nanny state majority that out votes the north at every turn.
4. Are you happy or concerned about the direction your state is headed?
NY is headed down hill fast and gaining speed. When “it” happens this area will be total chaos.
5. Do you wish you lived in a different state? Which one? Why?
Fell in love with the people and state of Wyoming after a visit there in 2014. See DaisyK’s post.
Been around the world courtesy of Uncle Sam. Came back to Carolina because it’s still the best place to be. I’m only about 30 minutes from ya Ken. So you know our plusses and minuses. Thanks for your hard work on this blog.
We live in central Ontario. BAM BAM pretty much summed up what’s wrong so I won’t repeat it. Although I disagree with it being the frozen north. The territories would, in my opinion, be considered the frozen north.
DH grew up in rural Indiana and says that he finds this area similar to where he used to live. When we met he was living in Los Angeles. Glad he decided to come up here. Can’t move because he has a really good job. Have considered moving to Nova Scotia for retirement. Was there for my uncle’s wedding in Mahone Bay. Probably beautiful but it rained non-stop and heavy fog as well.
kk
@kwartha keen
Nah, it’s only frozen for 9 months of the year. During our 2 or 3 days of summer it can get downright hot.?
Michigan, no other reason that this is where my most of my family have lived forever. Born and raised in the snow belt, and I was stupid enough to come back after 8 years in the Navy. Grin
I live in the great state of Mississippi . Why, you ask?
Simply because I can always count on my redneck family to be there when needed and when not needed. I love them to death and would go to the ends of the earth for them. I was raised with family being a major part of our lives. In my family there are no moochers, raised with good work ethic and values. The down sides hurricanes and humidity. Upsides good churches and decent folks around me, I have several friends who would help without being asked and I would do the same for them. GOD BLESS AMERICA !!!! Have a blessed day Y’all .
Completely agree with you on the redneck family. Good folks all around.
I’m heading to Mississippi next week do work. Hope the weather will be good.
Adapt and Overcome.
Native Floridian here. Central west coast.
Live here because I was born here (4th generation). Lots of family here and at the moment work is here. Lived in MI, CO and IL and my compass always pointed me south back to home.
Great fishing, good hunting and once we get a place with more land, good growing seasons.
I don’t like that Liberal Yankees are moving down here are trying to change it to be like where they left. Plus it’s starting to get a bit crowded. Subdivisions popping up everywhere. But there is still some good rural areas in the north and middle of the state. Except around Orlando.
Currently I am content how FL is doing overall, could be better but also worse. Some counties are really bad with the whole Liberal BS.
We’re hoping to eventually move to TN. Have family there also and it is just a beautiful state and everyone is very friendly. Total strangers wave when they pass you on the roads or see you drive by. Already have 6 acres and a small cabin out in the boonies that we use for vacations and hunting getaways. BIL has over 100 acres next door to the our place. Plus the weather is a bit more enjoyable.
There are more folks on here from FL than I thought. Glad to see it.
Adapt and Overcome.
I live in Michigan.
My parents moved here from Montreal, Canada when I was a toddler. I do like it here because there are no natural disasters but would not mind moving somewhere warmer. I have been following your site for a little while and find it interesting. For a newbie it can be a bit over whelming to see everything people are doing. I love reading all the comments.
Dont worry about it Frenchie, everybody is at their own stage of prep, and its simply one step at a time… Reading what others are doing provides great insight…
1. Why do you choose to live where you are?
2. What do you like about your state?
3. What do you dislike about your state?
4. Are you happy or concerned about the direction your state is headed?
5. Do you wish you lived in a different state? Which one? Why?
I am in Texas, is there really anywhere else in the lower 48 worth living? Just kidding, there may be a couple other nice places.
Texas offers just about everything. We have the coast, mountains, desert, lakes and rivers. We have weather that can go from tropical near the coast to snow in the mountains and canyons of the west and pan handle.
For the most part, the people of Texas are still friendly and will help each other. We are gun friendly, still treat women as ladies and for the most part are self sufficient as a state producing pretty much anything. My only dislikes are property taxes and the big metro areas like Dallas/Fort Worth and Houston. The big metro areas have attracted too many liberals from the north east and west coast. I have never understood people who would leave an area because of something they didn’t like and then when they get to their new state, try to vote in the same crap they just fled from.
As far as being happy with the direction of my state, I’m cautiously optimistic. We are one state that has pushed back hard against the federal over reach of the last several years.
Would I live anywhere else? Possibly. Where? I was stationed in Louisiana for 3 years while I was in the service. I lived off-base out in the bayou country. It was a semi isolated area where people were very self sufficient and neighbors looked out for each other. Alaska is another area I really liked for pretty much the same reasons. I only spent a few weeks about 100 miles north of Fairbanks near Central and Circle Alaska, but fell in love with the isolation. It is also fishing and hunting paradise.
Almost forgot to add Austin to that list of worthless metro areas in Texas. Austin is our version of San Francisco, way to weird and liberal.
I was born here in west NY state and to be very honest I HATE IT we have some of the harshest anti gun laws in the country, and its one of the biggest libaturd states there is. We,’we’ being my girl friend and I don’t have the money to move other wise we would be LONG GONE for Texas and the high desert if we had the money we would be gone TOMORROW.
@ Kevin
Money is not a reason to stay someplace if you hate it that much. When I (we, late wife) arrived in the Four Corners we had $10 left in our pocket, and worked our azzes off to make it, it CAN be done. Please remember “Life does NOT revolve around the worthless Dollar”. You cannot put a $$$$ on your happiness and sense of being, period.
Sorry, lecture over.
NRP
1. Why do you choose to live where you are?
Parents raised me here, jobs and family kept me here.
2. What do you like about your state?
Low property taxes. Decent jobs and fairly multicultural in the federal-government-based economy of NorthAl. Three-month winters. Mimosa trees, magnolias, wheat fields, and honeysuckle. And enough hills, woods, rivers/lakes, and wildlife around to keep the things interesting.
3. What do you dislike about your state?
AL has a bad reputation for being racist and ignorant (which is sometimes, but certainly not always, true). And we have some embarrassing/worrying problems in governmental leadership, as I’m sure people may have noticed in the media recently. And our state constitution…apparently 892 amendments and counting?! Also, college football culture permeates everything. And there are the tornadoes, but usually not too often.
4. Are you happy or concerned about the direction your state is headed?
North Al is also getting a bit too developed for my tastes, but it’s also given us a lot of amenities (high speed internet, hurray!). Violent crime seems to be on the upswing, as is meth. There are places that I used to feel safe wandering around decades ago that I would never go now.
5. Do you wish you lived in a different state? Which one? Why?
I’m satisfied here, most of the time. Visited family in western NY state in the past….very nice country, but seemed to have high property taxes and too much governmental regulation.
Ha! I was going to make sure I started right out in the first sentence with my state, and then I plunged right in and forgot. Lurker first-posting nerves I guess. Alabama.
Thanks for commenting… Great to hear (read) new voices.
@ NorAl
HAHAHA, and some wish I would STOP posting…. HAHAHA
Welcome aboard and please post at will, Heck, Ken has not kicked my azz off…. yet… LOLOL Although he has talked to Guido a few times :-) :-( :-)
NRP
Was born and raised here in NJ (The Garden State) :) Grew up in one of the only conservative towns in the state.
Love the seasons. (Lived in FL before and missed the seasons terribly). Close to mountains in PA (we’re about 10 miles from the border) and close to ocean.
Love our semi rural area. Surrounded by farms. I know all the back roads, beautiful spots, and places to avoid.
Husband has good job here. Several friends and family here. On the flip side; hate the taxes, hate the regulation overkill on everything, (you almost can’t breathe the air without some kind of permit!) horrible gun laws, too many liberals. Too many people in general.
State is heading to hell in a hand basket. They actually tax you when you want to leave the state! It’s nuts!
We were thinking of relocating to SC in a few years. We have some family down there and much better gun laws and cost of living. But I think I would miss the seasons. The other option would be PA. We have family there too and it’s less expensive than here. (Although I heard there was some kind of terrorist training camp over near the Poconos!)
We shall see.
When I lived in the Poconos, they taxed you for moving and about everything including dogs, and property taxes were catching up to NJ’s. We had a school hospital we had to pay in those taxes. I could have bought a new car for what I had to pay each year! You couldn’t have a speck of rust on your car or it didn’t pass inspection, and I had to tune my vehicles to sputter to pass and retuned them to run efficiently. I loved the state for beauty, but liberalism creeped in to spoil it all.
I was born and raised in Pennsylvania. I went to college out in southern California and pretty much hated it. I might have liked northern California if it were a separate state. I very seriously considered northern New Mexico for graduate school, but then I was introduced to a program here at Slippery Rock that I liked better (which no longer exists). I did give some serious consideration to some technologically-oriented intentional communities, but they never actually came together. Then I met the woman I married, and we pretty much stuck around for family.
We love Vermont in the summer and North Carolina beaches in the spring and fall, but we’re not so sure about the winters in Vermont nor the crowds at the beach in summer. So, we’re not planning on relocating, but if we had to, we would probably stick with the Appalachians.
One thing I love about Pennsylvania: the sheriff a couple counties over was looking to form a posse (no, really!). Guns would not be provided, but potential members were encouraged to use their own, because “well, everyone should have a gun for self-defense” (quoting the sheriff as best I can recall). And, another fun fact about Pennsylvania: there are more hunters in the woods with guns on the first day of deer season than are employed by the entire US Department of Homeland Security.
I’m not thrilled being in the heart of fracking country. I am encouraged that the enthusiasm for it has cratered, along with the checks.
The reason for the Posse is because of the two state correctional facilities… and one of said jails had inmates escape. They needed to find them… and did. Yes, the Sheriff’s department encourages all citizens that can bear arms to indeed carry and have your conceal permit. If person(s) are to be in the posse – not only do they have to supply their own guns n ammo, they are also responsible for their own well being and health insurance. The Sheriff’s department isn’t going to claim responsibility of harm done to said posse… I have a friend that looked into it – He lives in that county.
~
My Roots are here as far back as the Revolutionary War… My Grandpa built my home. I’m 3rd Generation to live/own it. My job perfectly suits me, pays pretty decent for the recessed area… crime is rather low, population isn’t overly populated
1. Why do you choose to live where you are?
I moved “Home” in 2003 after living out west. My Dad asked me to “come home”. How can you say no to your parents?
2. What do you like about your state?
Summer
3. What do you dislike about your state?
Winter
4. Are you happy or concerned about the direction your state is headed?
This states government is a mess – its headed downhill fast. If they gave a certain city to New Jersey our state would be great.
5. Do you wish you lived in a different state? Which one? Why?
I have always said “If I could move my house and keep the same job, I would take it everywhere with me.”
I like the arid climates. I also like tropical climates – Central America or the Southwest desert would suit me fine.
The weather is the main reason why I would move.
California transplant to Utah. NorCal native, born and raised, we raised our family in SoCal, had my law enforcement career there, moved here 10 years ago to care for in laws.
I like where we are currently located, love the mountains, hate the Legislators here with a passion who are Socialist pukes who NEVER met a tax they didn’t like, and didn’t hike.
This place is NOT politically nor fiscally conservative at all, THAT, I despise with a passion.
Like the pro-self defense culture among law enforcement and taxpayers, despise the intentional intrusions by the state legislators into our personal lives.
Most people here have no concept of how to merge onto the only freeway in this state, and tail-gating IS the official state sport of Utah.
Scenery here in the north is great, SLC is seriously liberal to prove ,a point, (a hypocritical one at that) ant there isn’t a single DECENT Mexican restaurant in the entire state.
Other than that, it beats What my native state has morphed/oozed into.
Oh, most importantly, we can be out of town in under five minutes in the boonies, mountains, north, east or west. NOT south….
TPS
Thanks for the heads up, hard to believe it going over to the liberal side. Always thought it was a conservative area.
It is an overwhelmingly conservative area, once you get away from (of course) the “big” city. As far as the legislators, as always people tend to believe what they’re told by politicians whose main goal is to get re-elected. Just because he has an R by his name, he’s a great guy and will do what the people want him to do. *gag*
We are Wyoming natives transplanted in Oregon. We chose to live here because our grand kids are here, but also to escape the wind/blizzards in southern Wyoming. We’ve moved around a lot and Oregon was one place we lived in the longest. We love the mountains and mild winters here and that you can go to the ocean once in a while. Gun regulations aren’t too bad here. YET.
There’s a huge difference between East of the Cascades/West. We are on the “sane” side of the Cascades, hours west of Portland. (Probably not far enough if the Cascadia earthquake/tsunami happens as many evacuees would be brought here.There’s quite a push to prepare for that through FEMA.)
Ranch country is close by and our small community is well-run. As in most states, political scene is 52% liberal, 48% conservative. State govt. is in a mess. We have no sales tax but property taxes make up for it. The Oregon Health Plan lost millions trying to get up and running. Where did the millions go?Typical scenario here.
If we left and went to another state, it would be a Western one. We would consider anywhere that wasn’t too cold, like Arizona. But we are prepared to stay here for quite some time.
Interesting how we are all spread out all over the nation and beyond! Good poll, Ken.
They “spent” 300 million on a system that NEVER worked. Never.
Washington state.
I was born here and have stayed. Our weather is usually good. Too much rain for some, but a good place to raise a nice garden. It’s getting too crowded of course like everyone else says.
There are good employment opportunities which brings lots of people from everywhere you can imagine. Being close to Portland was fun when I was a kid, now, not so much! Traffic! Pollution! Inflation!
Our home prices are ridiculous thanks to the Californians when they migrated up here. If I didn’t own my home, I sure couldn’t buy one today. We used to be pretty rural, but with urban sprawl not anymore. I wish we could get farther out, but I’m afraid we are here for the long haul! We have a multi generational homestead and we like it that way.
We are close to the mountains and the coast which we love! I’ve traveled throughout most of the country and I think we live in a beautiful place. So the good and bad balance each other out I think. We will probably never have a water shortage!
1. Why do you choose to live where you are?
-Been in Southern California most of my life, immigrated here from Taiwan at the age of 2, only state that I have ever lived in. Pretty much all of my intimidate family leaves around this area. My work is currently here as well.
2. What do you like about your state?
-Like SoCalGal, I like the great weather we have and that within a couple hours, you can be at the beach or in the mountains. A lot of beautiful and scenic areas to visit. A different variety of foods to try, exotic and some just straight up weird.
3. What do you dislike about your state?
– Honestly, there is just too many to list, so I will just mention the ones that bother me the most. Like others from California have mentioned. The rude and arrogant people that believe they are better than everyone else (But like SoCalGal says, not all of us are like that!) The ridiculous gun laws that our state imposes (Its even worse in the city of Los Angeles) and the traffic…the freaking traffic!
4. Are you happy or concerned about the direction your state is headed?
-I am worried about the direction my state is heading. Especially when it comes to our right to bear arms. Google California Gunpocalypse and you will see the stupid new laws they are trying to pass.
5. Do you wish you lived in a different state? Which one? Why?
-I have visited Washington State and I will admit that I love the cool air and the wide open land feeling. But I probably wouldn’t pick that as a place to live because they are also passing gun laws similar to California
-The state that I would want to live in would most likely be Idaho or Montana, the landing and housing is cheap and they are very welcoming to gun owners. Although I think I will stand out because I am Asian Haha.
Sunny CAL
It is not just WA along CA that is trying to clamp down on the guns….ah, yes Montana from what I have read. If you purchase land without a well you are only allowed to dig one well site, if it is a dry well that is your problem. If I understand correctly you are not allowed to put another hole into the ground. Heads up
@ Sunny California
“Although I think I will stand out because I am Asian Haha”
Naw, just get yourself a Cowboy Hat and a Horse, and you’ll fit right in hehehe
NRP
I recently moved to PA for one main reason….water. One of the largest underground lakes in North America is below the state. There is plenty of rural country and isolated country where you can take the necessary precautions for most potential events, but all events require water. I am what I guess is referred to as a lurker.
North Central NV, Nye County has 22,000 square miles with a population of 42,000 property taxes on the average of 250 bucks a year, no state income tax, open carry and you can find more then a few old towns of 500 hundred or less which are 2 hours from a major metro area and five hours away from the armpit of NV ‘Vegas’, and hundreds of miles from any nuclear problems. Have lived in 17 states in my life this State could be one of the better “redoubt states” as it is most often overlooked by preppers to be considered a great place to retreat to……..gotta love it.
I have family that recently moved to Mesquite. Maybe I’ll have to go visit and take a look see. I thought that water would be a problem there?
AKA There are parts of Nv that are water barren, like Vegas here in the northern part of Nv water is not a problem, and it is sweet tasting. Our town has a underground river for its supply and the number of springs in the mountains have amazed me, I live at 5400′ and we are allowed 60,0000 gal a month for home consumption. Gotta love it
Connecticut is my present state
I like: that It is close to my work (and my wife’s work), the rolling hills, the beautiful New England towns and scenery.
I do not like: the high taxes, the high concentration of people, the lefties running the state over the cliff with things like social engineering, etc.
We’re looking forward to building a new home on our property in northern New Hampshire where attitudes seem to be more in line with the spirit of independence and community.
CO here.
taxes on 71 acres developed under 300 per year!
Great outdoors living and activities (6 miles north of NM). Good pasture for my mini ranch of livestock, year round water, “dry heat” “dry cold”
Don’t especially like the direction the state is taking…..Waaaay to liberal and beginning to infringe on personal liberties. However, gainfully employed, even if I do commute a great distance. And relatively good wages and cost of living.
Happy here!
@ Pioneer Woman
6 miles north of NM ????, heck you’re in my backyard…. HAHAHA
BTW, how did you get only $300 Tax on 71 acers? Taxes are why I left CO. 20 years ago
NRP
NRP We have the same in common…..I lived on the front range in Co, between Co Spgs and Denver (The liberal armpit of of Co) my property taxes, and state income tax, along with license plate fees (1st year fees for 2 cars were over a grand per year and that was 1982)were bleeding me to death and after 10 years moved back to Texas, no state income tax, no ultra high auto plate fees and until about 10 years ago reasonable property taxes.
@ icecathook
When I moved from CO to 1/2 mile inside of NM my property taxes dropped to 1/3 on 3 times the house and land. Although I still get the “hairy eyeball” from those I knew in Durango. But honestly, that town has turned so liberal it makes Sanders look Conservative. Never looked back.
NRP
I’ve been asked many times what brought us to the Missouri Ozarks, and my standard answer is “a series of good decisions”.
Lived in Dallas for 29 years, love Texas, but Dallas is the last place I’d want to retire in.
Our County has a cost of living right at 82% of the national average, low taxes, NO building codes other than septic. Lots of inexpensive land in very rural, out of the way type areas. Very pro-gun legislature & laws.
We get all 4 seasons here, but not enough of any one to wear you out. Some years I’ll plow our 1 1/2 mile of gravel road 3 times, last year never.
We’ve put a lot of work and money into our current place to get it where we want it, they’ll carry me out of here feet first.
To: Sunny California,
I too am asian and I live in Oregon. The other drivers get out of my way on the roads. My wife is Scotch-Irish. and I have a steady job up here to keep me busy.
Where ever you move in the Pacific Northwest, do your research prior to the move. Case in point: There is/was a well established White Supremacist movement in the North Idaho Panhandle. (last time I was there was to suppress wild fire.) Not a bad idea really. Like minded individuals living in close proximity to each other. I just don’t go there myself. I’m not into the whole cross-burning thing.
I used to joke about being at the forefront of the Asian Invasion but many asians come into this country through the Port of Seattle for over 100 years. I like the ethnic food and I now hear that Sushi is now being served in Idaho Falls and other locations in the Pacific Northwest. I live in an area where I can eat Vietnamese Spring rolls and Pho, Chinese food fixed by people from the old country, and a lot of Japanese food and a few, good sized asian markets.
Thanks to the internet, it is easier to research an area prior to moving. Avoid going from the frying pan into the fire. (or toilet into the cesspool, choose your own analogy) I researched and dreamed for over a years prior to my last big move. I’m glad I did the intel footwork before I moved.
Maybe I will see you at a shooting match up here. Most states outside California and New Jersey are gun-friendly by comparison.
Texas
1 – Family moved here, so here I am.
2 – Like the amount of land, just wish I had some to use
3 – Dislike the Heat, and the way that public education is going (although it is a lot of fun when you have a very conservative history teacher)
4 – Quite a few of the recent pieces of legislation (state and city) passed, I have agreed with. I cannot speak for those in cities further south, though. One such state piece is for the Bullion Depository.
5 – In the future I would like to move elsewhere (whether in-state or not), so I can have some land beyond the suburbs that I am in. That will be a ways in the future, however.
I live in NY because that’s where the airplane landed. I am also admitted to practice law here and it is where my law firm is located.
I like it here. It has a good mix of seasons. We have decent winters and relatively mild summers. We have a lot of public land (about 30% of the state), which makes outdoor activities pretty good. There is good hunting and fishing, and the trapping is not too bad either, although very few people practice it. If you are not living in one of the large cities, you can get a decent amount of land without too many crazy restrictions.
Ont the downside the state is expensive. I have to commute long distance in order to make things work-afford a house, etc. Our gun laws are also too restrictive, which is a nuisance.
Overall, the state is doing fine. Revenue is good, property values are stable, jobs are good. It is certainly better than it was in past decades.
I would like to live some place that was cheaper and I didn’t have to commute as much as I do to be able to own a decent piece of land, but it’s not realistic.
Why do you choose to live where you are?
I was born here in Tennessee for starters. I’ve been many places but TN is home and I can never wait to get back when I’m gone.
What do you like about your state?
Currently I like the freedom, the lay of the land, the natural resources, high quality farm land with decent growing seasons, very large game population, and, for the most part, the people are pretty great. It isn’t hard to find “like minded” people. Also, don’t forget the cooking. Nothing better than living where the state bird is a fried chicken and every Friday here in the dirty south means catfish, turnip greens, and sweet tea… And pie…
What do you dislike about your state?
I live in the middle on the southern border and the politics in this area are pretty good. However, just up the road in Franklin and Nashville, the politics are starting to lean way too far left for my liking. The legal system here is also becoming stacked against your average, tax-paying Joe, and I believe that is a direct result of dislike number 1.
Are you happy or concerned about the direction your state is headed?
I am concerned about the direction our state is heading due to the left leaning politics of some higher up political figures, but I also believe when the time comes we will get it straightened right out.
Do you wish you lived in a different state? Which one? Why?
I do not wish to live in another state, however, I have thought once or twice about the American Redoubt and would also consider any area with vast wilderness and a low incident rate of nosey people were I to decide to move. That said, there are many states I really like and enjoy visiting. Just don’t want to live there…
Thanks, Ken, for posting this survey. It is good to sometimes reflect on why you live where you do and most of us probably never give it a second thought. It just is what it is. I can’t wait to read the comments.
Kentucky….Because I can walk out my front door and shoot 25 miles…shoot full auto….Shoot Artillery if I want or deer hunt….No anti gun aholes to mess with you
Illinois. Why? Bad decisions, and stay because I’m stuck in the job, family obligations and care etc. On the plus side we have good dirt and adequate rainfall, on the downside is everything else.
Nevada is one of the places that I look at when thinking of moving but I don’t understand how taxes work. Can anyone fill me in?
1. Moved to Maine 6 years ago because we needed to be closer to my mother, and could no longer afford to live in NH due to the insane property taxes.
2. I like being less than a half hour drive from the ocean.
3. What I dislike most about this state is our crazy ass governor. He has been an embarrassment to the state. I don’t mind the cold weather too much. Could never live in a warm climate.
4. Concerned – see above. Fortunately we have term limits here.
5. I miss NH, where we lived for 25 years, but we will probably stay here. Once my husband retires, we will move further north to get back to the country.
1. We used to come here when I was growing up. Two awesome lakes, three beautiful rivers all within a 30 minute drive. Tons of camping and trail areas. Hunting and fishing year round. Summer can be a little crazy with all the tourist around. Mostly conservative local politics and people, but I have noticed an increase in lib-northern Yanks retiring down here.
2. We have four seasons which is great, but summer can be very humid sometimes.Low cost of property and taxes.
3. Good paying jobs are hard to find, high unemployment. The State level corruption and the Local Good ‘Ole boy situation had be very frustrating. Local hospital listed in top 10 of Hospitals billing Medicaid/Medicare. The State’s one nuclear power plant has a poor safety record and is 122 miles SW of me and New Madrid Fault is 160 miles to the East.
4. The state mostly runs in the middle, it is the influx of retiring liberals that I worry about. Some have already got our Nativity pulled from Courthouse grounds
5. I plan on staying here, if SHTF I think I’ll be ok.
@ No. 4 LOCAL influx of retires is what I meant, and Our LOCAL Nativity.
Iowa has a population of 2 million. The primary business is agriculture. I cant drop a seed on the fertile ground without sprouting a plant. Small towns with tight self reliant communities. The good news is that unless you have a reason to go to Iowa most people just pass right through. I bet 75% of people would have a hard time locating it on a map. Since my primary SHTF plan is to bug in and lay low that’s a good thing.
Cons- proximity to Chicago (5 hour drive)
The state is purple when it comes to politics. But the liberals are in the cities.
Two of the most major travel routes bisect the state. I35 and I80.
Currently, PHX AZ. However, moving the Fam. to LA for two years to pursue school for a career change. After school the goal is to move to a really small town. Small towns actually pay much better than big cities for my career path. I have a countdown til finished calendar already made. I see a move to LA as a challenge. “Adapt and over come”. It’s going to push me to learn new surroundings and new cultures. I have spent alot of time in SoCal and have a decent idea what I’m getting in to, and ready for the challenge.
I’m late to the party… N.Carolina born and stayed. I have lots of smart, loving, hard working family close by. I’m a little too close to the coast, but I need my job, so can’t move. Love the four seasons. HATE the mosquitoes and “no-see’ems”. Dislike all the retirees who tell us how “they did it up north”. This was fun! Luv ya’ll, Beach’n
1. Why do you choose to live where you are?
Born and raised in Utah for starters. The core of my family is here, our jobs are here, and our social network is here. The core of my religion is also located here.
2. What do you like about your state?
The state is overwhelmingly conservative outside of SLC, though that has been shifting slightly. Gun rights are a big deal here and lots of people are into the shooting sports. Lots of outdoor activity opportunities only a short drive away. Every third or fourth home has a year worth of wheat and beans in the basement. Every 10th home has a family that is actually prepared.
3. What do you dislike about your state?
Californians and the earthquake risk.
4. Are you happy or concerned about the direction your state is headed?
More or less happy where the state is headed. In my personal opinion it doesn’t really matter in the long term as I don’t think the nation has a long term. In the short term, I think the state is doing fine.
5. Do you wish you lived in a different state? Which one? Why?
I would only consider moving to Idaho, Montana, or Wyoming. I’m too attached to the rocky mountains, don’t like extreme heat, and prefer largely conservative states. At this point in our lives it would take an act of God to get us to move.
@ Anon
Seems like WO, MT, ID may be getting crowded after we all move there… HAHAHA
FYI, UT will be a very nice area once the Ogdon through Provo corridor becomes its own state… HAHAHA
2.4 million People, holly cow. I agree the number of people that prep there is very impressive. Just don’t try to escape the “corridor” on 15 or 215, what a mess— still.
NRP
Kansas:
2a Friendly, wide open spaces, all four seasons, great farming land. And, it ain’t all flat! The flint hills of the NE are great.
Cons: Wolf Creek Nuclear nuclear plant, finding others of like mind seems to be difficult. Where are the rest of you all at anyway!? I know there are at least 9 others!
1. Why do you choose to live where you are?
2. What do you like about your state?
3. What do you dislike about your state?
4. Are you happy or concerned about the direction your state is headed?
5. Do you wish you lived in a different state? Which one? Why?
1. Well Texas……all my life. Born and raised. Never knew any different and don’t want too. Never even ventured out of state till I was in my 20’s and that was to a foreign country before I even went to another state, haha.
I even still live in the same little town.
2. I love the people, BBQ, and Tex Mex food. I am happy to be in a conservative state. I am glad we can carry guns to protect ourselves. We can even open carry. To be honest, I haven’t seen one person open carry, but you have the right. I love the weather. I am glad I never have to wear a heavy coat. Maybe once a year. Last year not at all. None. To us its chilly when its 70 degrees.
3. I dislike fire ants and mosquitoes.
4. I am concerned about the weirdos in Austin, and their trying to turn Texas blue. That is actually their slogan. “Keep Austin Weird”. I worry about the Californians and New Yorker’s liberal influx. I feel if you don’t like our laws, go back to your state or leave.
5. Nope, no other state for me. Texas is home. I ain’t going nowhere else. Y’all come visit, you will never want to leave.
I live in North Dakota. I choose to live in North Dakota because my primary concern is proximity to people.
The people are very friendly.
The state is conservative.
The state has good farming land.
The population is very low and spread out.
The state is a good place to watch the world go by.
Possible problems…
Not preparing for the extremely cold winters is deadly.
If Canada invades…LOL…that would be bad.
LIVE IN VIRGINIA WHERE WE GREW UP MY AND MY WIFES FAMILY LIVED HERE TOO OLD NOW TO MOVE TO ALASKA