I could do ID - for the hunting / fishing / outdoors. But it would be too cold for my taste. I guess you'd keep a CA pad for the winter. And while you may be a conservative - these states are a whole new level. Lacks diversity in my book at 80%+ white and less than 10% foreign born.
I find city data a great resource when looking at places to live:
Boise, Idaho (ID) profile: population, maps, real estate, averages, homes, statistics, relocation, travel, jobs, hospitals, schools, crime, moving, houses, news, sex offenders
My advice would be to NOT buy a home, but rent one and move there for a year. See how you like it. Last thing you want is a $500k ball and chain in a place you don't like. These places aren't CA, where you can sell a home in 2 weeks tops. You'll sit on it and lose some money.
Have fun! Exciting times!
George