Oof, fun time to weigh in on this! I just wanted to vouch a little for texas. I completed my undergraduate in Houston and will be attending Sam Houston in the fall. This is certainly not where I thought I would be (I've always felt a draw to the north east) but the program and funding was too good to pass up. Texas is as a whole misrepresented in the media. I'm not sure of the school in question, but the big cities (Austin/DFW/Houston) are predominantly liberal and incredibly diverse. In fact, University of Houston is the second most diverse campus in the nation! Sure we have our problems such as PROP1 not passing, but overall you'll find it to be surprisingly inclusive.
As for campus carry, that is another problem you'll have to think about. It unfortunately will go into effect in August, and it's completely understandable if that's something you're not comfortable with. However, if this is one of the big reasons you don't choose to come to Texas, PLEASE tell the university administration that that is part of the reason you chose not to come. With enough data proving that this law will decrease enrollment in Texas universities, we may be able to overturn it!
Also, part of the reason I chose SHSU is the fact that I can comfortably live alone. Cost of living in Texas is incredibly reasonable, and most of the friends I have in current grad programs across the state live alone or with their SOs.
Overall, this process is entirely personal and I hope that you find the place that best suits you!