I like the area too! Was just up there for a wedding and it definitely has a very lush, organic feel to it that reminds me of the more pastoral areas of the east coast, where I’m from. Its also way less seedy than the city.

If I could convince my employer to let me telecommute 3 days a week I would definitely consider settling down there. But no way am I commuting to the coast every day.

When I used to visit there regularly during the early stages of the housing boom (2000-2001), even then it struck me that everyone I met seemed to be involved in construction in one way or the other. Or worked retail. So I wonder what is going to happen to local economy when all the new construction and remodeling stops.

I do see it as an attractive destination for companies looking to open a new location, especially ones based out of pricey metro areas. I bet lots of folks would relocate there if offered a free house!