My list isn't entirely based on freedom; climate and scenery also play a major role. I've grown up and lived in IL all my life. I enjoy the large lazy rivers and enough rain and good soil to grow anything. But I do miss a little hill and mountain for scenery.
Except for Idaho, I've visited these other states and really liked them.
Idaho makes the list because it seems to have the mountains like Wy and Montana; but should have a lot more rain and green and I think it is usually warmer.
I really don't know much about VA and WV, I've never been there.
San Diego is too dry and too expensive. And housing prices are unreasonable.
Dallas is too dry and too hot. It is also flatland, I can get that at home.
Japan is pretty mountains and green combined with very modern cities, but it is very restrictive/unfreedom. Nice to visit, but wouldn't want to live there long term.
Suisse is also pretty mountains and green combined with small modern cities, but the housing prices make California seem reasonable. The cost of living is insane, but so is the chocolate.
