If your DH or you are a veteran, there are a few states where there are really good tax breaks for vets. North Carolina, I believe charges no income tax to vets who are 50% disabled. Some states are have even better tax breaks for vets. This aspect of your move bears investigating if you qualify.
I am with you on the snakes. Never found one I liked but some perform wonderful services to mankind especially farmers. Then some are just plain deadly. The busier the place you move, the less likely you are to be impacted by snakes. AND the more likely to have great church, health care, and quilting connections. The Lincoln County area of NC is close to everything but still has that neighborly feel. 15 minutes to Mary Jo's!