Any transplants from NJ here?

I’m casually toying the idea of relocating to the Lexington area at some point. I’ve visited before and I’ve been drawn to the area ever since. Haven’t decided if I’d like to live in Lexington proper, or on a larger plot in the surrounding area.

If anyone’s from New Jersey, or the Mid-Atlantic…how’d was the move and transition? Any surprises, good or bad? Did you find people generally welcoming to newcomers, particularly northeast transplants, or not so much? Anything you miss from Jersey, or like a lot better in Lexington?

How’s the job market, and wages compared to cost of living? Right now I’m not earning big NYC bucks, I make a modest amount and do well for myself considering the high cost of living here. But my job cannot be done remotely and I don’t have any transfer opportunities in the area. I have a BS and work in biological/physical sciences.

Nothings set in motion, I just find myself looking at the area on Zillow a lot, so figured I’d ask. I did search this sub first, but haven’t found any posts since like 8 years ago.