Ok... an update. I need to find a possible long-term accommodation ( ? 1+ months).....in the greater Myrtle Beach area starting perhaps 4/15. Looking on the net and for anything that seems reasonably affordable for over a 30 day stay....I'm finding a lot of negative reviews. Anybody here who may be local to the area with suggestions ???

Dallas area is much, much different from Houston. I've visited Dallas a few times. I'm not much of a fan. Dallas is much colder in the winter, and I think hotter in the summer. Houston, because it's so close to the Gulf is much more temperate. I guess the downside is the humidity. I'm not sure, but would guess, that the humidity is probably lower in Dallas. San Antonio and El Paso are also hotter in the summer, but I think also drier. Austin is great, but not cheap, probably because it's so great.

I'd like to thank everyone here for their informative and courteous points of discussion on this topic. Things of this nature can often get very heated as we all have very divergent points of view.

Would like to give all an update and conclusion on my own situation.....but of course keep this thread going if it helps others as they consider their own options.

I closed on the sale of my home in NYS on April 17 and similarly closed on my new-construct purchase of a place in Galivants Ferry, SC (aka "Aynor"), on April 22.... a really small town about 45 minute drive inland from Myrtle Beach. Nearest larger town is Conway, which is 30 mins from Myrtle Beach. I wanted to be close to the ocean, but not too close where hurricanes and such can be a problem for damage and insurance costs. The particular area is really nice....a new development, with good history of staying dry during times of regional flooding, and good history of being safe ( lots of local police and sheriffs live in the neighborhood, one of which lives directly across the street from me).

The house design is perfect for our needs, smaller and efficient with a great layout and curb appeal. Neighbors and locals are friendly. Overall taxation burden (combining all levels) is very low compared to NYS...a big factor in our decision. Weather has been much better but of course will get very hot and humid in summer...something we understand. Being more in the country means some extra travel time for some of life's needs....but surprisingly a lot of these are close by. Altogether...so far !.... not a bad choice. No doubt this needs to be evaluated over a longer period of time, but so far, this seems to be working for us.

I'd like to thank this group for a lot of interesting and informative points that were brought up....but I guess we all knew that based on the typical profile of this group.

Thanks.... SmileWavy

Very cool.

There are some interesting Steeplechase venues in South Carolina: Camden and Aiken each hold a meet or two every year.

My sister lives in Aiken and we've had rail side parking for almost 40 years. If I go in the next few year I give you a shout...worth the drive.

Very kind of you Paul..... thanks !

Wil - Thanks for the update. You have been very smart and methodical in your decisions. You ended up in a rural area out of the rat race, better weather, lower costs and lower taxes.....What's not to like?

dear LakeCleElum....thank you for the kudos on being methodical...I try to be in matters of importance like this. That said.....This location and decision is about perfect ( so far !) for me for the aspects you cite. However, if you like city life and the opera and such.....this wouldn't be so wonderful for THAT kind of person. Thanks again.