Ironically a 3-4 year old, second hand truck would be about double ... forthcoming harmonization of vehicle sat standards are suppose to permit us (in Canada) to import newer foreign vehicles.We could have probably made due with a smaller VW Transporter or small Merc 200 class Sprinter, but we could not find one with a 3-way dump (which has turned out to be my favourite feature).We have already had offers to purchase the truck (for more than our costs) ... so, as soon as we find a newer one with *all* the features we want ....

I have lived in Santo Domingo DR, San Juan PR, Atlanta, Raleigh, Jupiter/North Palm Beach/Palm Beach Gardens and as get ready to retire, I think the parameters to locate do change with age.You want excellent medical care / good access to transportation / airport w/ cheap fares/ mountains and lakes and occasional beach.

I would also recommend taking a look at Sky Ranch and the Transport project which is located around the Colorado Air and Space Port.

From your profile it says you want to invest and develop transportation, energy and defense systems.

These areas offer excellent public transportation options to NYC and have a vibrant community.

We typically don't rent a car so usually walk a lot or take cabs or shared transportation. 

The property tax spikes can be reduced by cutting services such as schools, community colleges, public universities, police, parks, public transportation, etc. and other amenities that make Chicago a wonderful place to live.  

A single km in a typical German city can be a considerable difference depending on the transport routes.Cities are very dense, and many people rely on public transport.  

Theoretically, they could be transported...but with as much floor-to-ceiling glass that will be in it, it would be risky.

There is a strong employment base, and public transportation to the largest economic hub in the world.