I did 12 years in Texas including 8 in west texas (Abilene) and I liked it. Sure living in San Diego is a little cooler, but that much. It’s all in what you make of it.

I wouldn’t mind getting a similar job in Dallas, making close to 100K, no state tax, and homes are not investments. However I am not exactly floating resumes either, just saying it wouldn’t kill me.

In fact for my money, once you get a few miles east of the 15 (I am slightly east of the 5) with terrible commutes and oppresive heat, you might as well live in Texas and save 1/3 of the price of a home.