Hi Andrew,
I think it's more of a personal view. Saving more and earlier retirement are not everything. How are you going to spend the time in between, is more important. What keeps you here, friend, family weather, sea- you name it, is a very personal preference, of how you rather live your life, while working toward your goals. For somebody else, maybe this things will be less important, and moving will be easier.
I agree with everything you wrote about the financial situation in Cali, yes we all hear how much easier it is in Texas, for example. and I still miss the days when we lived in Florida, and did not pay income tax. ...The point is, and if you think you will have a fair chance of being equally happy, in another state, I would give it a serious thought. but do not leave a place that you have roots in , and you love, just because it is harder. difficaulties can take many forms.
Remember, the journey is more important than the reaching the destination.
