Having grew up in the south, I'd say 3x is a drastic under sell of how much better going west or to the north east. Unfortunately for people in your position,

Having grew up in the south, I'd say 3x is a drastic under sell of how much better going west or to the north east. Unfortunately for people in your position, companies know that your options are limited. Large supply of people that want to live away from jobs and pocket the difference compared to the number of jobs available => lower prices.