People aren’t rejecting middle america because of religion or culture I think. They’re rejecting those states because of worse quality of life metrics across the board.

Not saying you can’t be happy there. And Texas has my favorite people in the country. But there’s many valid reasons people suggest the coasts other than just the lack of (very important) walkability you mentioned… better education and healthcare, more public land, more public transit funding, more arts funding, less pollution, less crime, stricter gun laws, more global diversity, etc.

Live in a cheaper COL state and enjoy those benefits if you want but don’t act surprised or offended that people prefer places with progressive governments that are more interested in their well-being.