I moved to Houston in 2012. I am very much enjoying it.

Houston is a HUGE sprawl of 6 million people. Great food, and great access to saltwater fishing. Texas has fairly positive gun laws, and a relatively low cost of living. You're also a short drive from Dallas, San Antonio, Austin, Baton Rouge, and New Orleans.

I will also say that if you don't make a point of going stupid places with stupid people, Houston is very safe for a city of this size.