I've learned what appeals to me doesn't necessarily appeal to others, but given that, I've always been greatly attacted to this part of the country:

http://www.alpinetexas.com

Not necessarily just this town, but within a ~90 radius there are only a handful of other towns, most if not all smaller. I just love the area in general. It has its own particular conditions, issues, etc., but so does everywhere else. Besides, their website has a photo of cyclists riding by a local mountain. Can't be all bad!

Location

As to the list:

1. Low taxes, low cost of living
2. Good medical access
3. Community with shops within walking/riding distance.
4. Outdoor activities
5. Cool climate - moderate humidity (not too dry, not too hot)
6. Clean water, clean air.
7. Mountains, lakes - easy access to good skiing, biking and hiking
8. Good airpor

1. Yes
2. Yes
3. Yes
4. Yes
5. Reasonably, depending on what you call cool. But humidity is one thing it does not have.
6. Yes, but it's not a 'wet' area; on the contrary, it's fairly arid.
7. Mountains, yes. Lakes, no.
8. Yes, but not airline-connected.

One reason (of several) this whole area appeals to me is that while I've not lived in huge metropolises, I've always lived around lots of other people within close distance. I like the idea of open spaces, mountains, blue skies and dry air... and it's here a-plenty. I just don't know if it can happen for me.