Very interesting... I thought you were one of those "I'm never leaving CA" types like I used to be...
In all seriousness I'd give it some thought and/or come visit for a while before moving. The job market in general is a hell of a lot better on the east coast than in CA but RI is struggling as a whole. As far as livability it's a toss-up. CA (Long Beach) can be a drag and a grind, but good, warm, sunny year-round weather does count for something, as does having resources around. A lot of RI is pretty "vanilla" and boring, but there are some really nice parts (Newport, etc.)
Just my $0.02 but as a guy who spent a long time in Long Beach and moved "back east" I have to say overall I'm a lot better off for having done so, even if I miss the sunshine and warm weather for a few months of the year. As long as plane tickets remain reasonably cheap, I can deal with it for the benefits of having stable work, reasonably clean air and water, being able to see the stars at night, having lots of green trees around and a semi-sane governmental structure. YMMV.
I hope you find happiness in whatever form Milt - I know you've been a restless soul for a while. I really do hope you are able to find whatever you're seeking - even if that's to understand what it is you're really seeking.