You may want to check out Albuquerque. Ranked #1 (2006) on
Forbes list of Best Places for Businesses & Careers.
We have several Kingdom Halls in the metro area, in addition to the University of New Mexico. We also have a well respected community college (CNM) that offers multiple types of associates degree programs. Plenty of access to music & art, especially in Santa Fe & Taos. Great year-round weather, with four distinct seasons and virtually no humidity.
As far as beauty goes, that is in the eye of the beholder.
The Desert Southwest is about as different as you can get from the Maryland area. But if you are interested, you should definitely check it out in person!