New Mexico

Work and lower cost of living are the two more attractive factors. I'm wrapping up a 20 year career in the military and looking for a quiet area that has access to decent jobs

It's funny you mention the prevalence of big box stores and franchises. The smaller town feel is appealing. Getting to know people and do things with the fellow community appeals to me. The East Mountains seems to always have some fair, festival, or event going on.

At present I'm living in Vegas, and I prefer the desert climate, similar to yourself. Vegas is cool and all, but it's insanely expensive and way too crowded.