I was born and raised in Walpole, lived in NH for awhile... a few yrs in RI and other states/countries. I only came to the Cape to care for an elderly parent, but I guess the point is, I did come back
Like the OP, I am also researching some alternative places. MA high cost of living and some other state issues make it not the right place for me and my business.
But yeah, it still a cool place to be and hard to beat in regard to culture and history.... and Sports!
Massholes Unite!