I am originally from New York... born and raised. I have been in Scott City, Missouri (2 hours south of St. Louis) for 7 1/2 years. It's a slower lifestyle here, the people are friendlier than NYers, job market (eh... depends on what you do). I was a computer programmer and left NY and still worked for the same company for 3 1/2 years while here (telecommuter)... just went back up North every couple of months or so. Now I am just a bum (and loving it).
I still go to New York at least once a year. My family is still there. I would NEVER move back there. Too crowded!!!!!!
... and yes, you can get alot of property and a beautiful house for a lot less than in New York or California.
Good luck with your relocation!
