I second the motion to check out Sedona. Liberal town. Beautiful. Many cultural activities and a generally well-educated, retired professional populace. Housing is pricy -- expect to pay at least $450,000 for a decent small house. There are nice condos for less but you're still looking at the $300-$400K range. Still, with the real estate slowdown there may be a bargain or two out there.
Good thing is that the overall cost of living even in Sedona is considerably less (we've found) than in other parts of the country. Property tax and most other utilities are markedly lower than what we paid in California (duh). Car insurance is about 35-40% lower.
It's colder this winter than in the previous two we've spent here. But it's absolutely beautiful because it's usually sunny and dry. And the people are nice and friendly. Not closed to newcomers. Like it much better than Santa Fe which we had checked out before we made the move in early 2005.
Good thing is that the overall cost of living even in Sedona is considerably less (we've found) than in other parts of the country. Property tax and most other utilities are markedly lower than what we paid in California (duh). Car insurance is about 35-40% lower.
It's colder this winter than in the previous two we've spent here. But it's absolutely beautiful because it's usually sunny and dry. And the people are nice and friendly. Not closed to newcomers. Like it much better than Santa Fe which we had checked out before we made the move in early 2005.