Seriously Claybird,
A friend retired about 7-8 yrs ago, sold his house here in the burbs of Los Angeles, bought a big truck and a fifth wheel trailer. He traveled the U.S. for a few years before deciding on settling in Grand Junction, Colorado. I've been to his house there a couple times. I can see the attraction. Big enough town, small enough and great hunting all around (big game was his thing). Nothing like looking at a place for yourself. If I were looking for a new hometown, I'd do the same.