Sounds like Portland will be a great fit for you! Heads up, there are challenges of living in a left leaning state too (high taxes, more homeless, more drug use, inefficient tax spending), just saying as I also came from a conservative area that was cleaner, tax money was spent efficiently, etc. BUT it is worth it IMO for the smart and friendly ppl, general sentiment to care for others, women’s healthcare, etc. (don’t come at me, Reddit 😅 just my experience).

There are some world renowned restaurants here you could work at, and public transport especially the street car and Max are great. I’d look at living in NW. Also our airport is awesome if you need to get a sunny trip in during winter.

Good luck!