Best states for LEO regarding COL/Quality of life?

Former LEO with two years on the road. Full time in school for a second degree in CompSci. I enjoy my coursework but frequently think of LE, so much so I’ve applied to a few 1811 positions and BPA.

It got me wondering if I were to go local again where are the best spots to land? I was in metro Atlanta and the cost of living there has skyrocketed and although I love Georgia, they don’t pay their PD even close to what the area demands in cost of living.

In my own research I’ve looked at places like Des Moines Iowa and Omaha/Lincoln Nebraska PD’s. They seem to pay well for the cost of living.

Any other hidden gems out there?

Thanks.