Well seeing as you are from KS it's a reasonable guess that you didn't vote Democrat, so you aren't responsible for the economic downturn!
You may find that you need to show quite a few $$$ behind you to emigrate here, you will be pleased to know that our taxes are not as bad as yours, and in the main there are only Federal taxes to cope with, no direct state or county/city taxes, and no tax on your personal property.
Utilities are still much cheaper here, but you will crap a brick when you see the price of gas, alcohol and cigarettes, or any govt fine/penalty.
You may also fall over when you see what passes for roads here.
Good luck with your endeavours mate.