The Southern States increasingly have negative legislation in the works. They may have a reptile-friendly CLIMATE, but they most certainly can't be considered reptile-friendly States.

I can insulate a room, get a backup generator, and use an oil heater...I don't mind that, so long as I can actually legally own the animals.

Nebraska here is pretty good for reptile laws. So is Wyoming, where I would like to eventually wind up. (Outside of some cities with ordinances, the State has only one law...you aren't allowed to keep a black mamba, lol. Of course, there are some endangered species rules, and are laws for wild collection, but that's about it).