@Josh Deeden.
You didn't indicate your tech background, but the first objective, IMO is to establish yourselves in paying occupations in your new location. Once you are established in your new location and are meeting your basic needs with some left over, then you can begin to think about investing for the future.
As for locations, I would suggest Austin which has a number of High-Tech Companies and is continuing to attract high tech businesses from CALI. You can live in some of the outlying communities more economically than in the Austin inner-core, and the schools are better - if that's a concern for children. Some suggestions, Round Rock, Pflugerville, Georgetown, Cedar Park & Leander on the North side of Austin. On the south side, Buda, Kyle, San Marcos, & Bastrop are all possibilities.
San Antonio would also be an excellent choice as there is a burgeoning High Tech Community. Generally speaking, Cost Of living is thought to be less in San Antonio than Austin. As with Austin look for outlying communities where you can have a lower cost of living, but still have access to all the amenities and facilities of the major metro area. As for specific communities, Helotes, New Braunfels, Boerne, Schertz, Universal City, and Converse are potential destinations.
Once you're meeting your basic needs and beginning to stockpile some savings, the best way to satisfy your housing needs and also begin to invest is to purchase a Duplex or other Multi-Family (MFR) property. You live in one unit and rent the others. This would enable you to get into the property using an FHA Loan (3.50% Down Payment) with a total out of pocket of about 7.50% Of the Sales Price. If you buy a duplex, ideally a large percentage of your Mortgage is paid by renting out the other unit. Or if you bought a Triplex / 4-Plex, all of your Mortgage Payment would be covered by rental income from the other units, allowing you to stockpile additional Cash for future investments.
Check out "7 Years to Seven Figure Wealth" by Brandon Turner. It's a ambitious roadmap, but doable with relentless drive and perseverance
It's NOT too late to start. But you do have to begin.
Good Luck.
Let me know if I can answer any questions for you.
