I lived in Charleston, SC for about 6 years till I was about 14. We lived on an island with big open back yards between houses. And I remember some of the southern hospitality. That it sorely missing here in So CA. My wife yearns for friendlier neighborhoods too. Can that still be found?
When we first moved here we would drive along a street and people would wave to us. We wondered if they thought we were somebody they knew! It took us a while to realize that people are just friendly and wave to everybody!!!
They really are salt of the earth people, who will help you and support you and tell you if your kid is screwing up when out of your sight. Ma'am and sir are common (another thing it took me time to get used to.... made me feel old) Sorta like things used to be.
By the way, there are some nice lakes here as well.
8-)