no doubt about it... When researching possible retirement areas east of here in Arizona and Utah, the number one thing we heard from folks who asked us where we were from was "oh it's so nice there..."

But that high cost of living thing is not something to take lightly... for me it can mean the difference between retiring in my early '60s or working another 10+ years... that is pretty significant.

Interestingly, that same high cost of living means I have quite a bit of equity in my home... I could sell my home and could move into some other areas and pay off a home immediately, vice carry the mortgage (however small) that I have now.

As far as New England... apparently you missed my comment about not wanting to have to "shovel weather" for a quarter of the year. In fact, it appears that your referenced Boston has snow forecast for Thursday and next Monday and Tuesday... no thanks... too much "charm" for me. Even New Bern NC is predicted to have a chance of snow tomorrow and Wednesday... (ouch)

I would certainly miss San Diego... but I am coming to believe there is more to life than a 60+ hour work week.