I have put in a bit of time in East Texas and it is just about the same country as the Florida panhandle in every way, including the same type people, wildlife, climate etc. The only real difference is the beaches in Texas are not too good.
I spent quite a few years in Western Kansas but only got down to West Texas once to see Troy State play West Texas State. I loved the area except for the wind. It is amazing how much wildlife can survive in such poor country.
And a very big difference too since the panhandle has the prettiest sand and emerald water around. I lived in Beaumont once. Lots of oil industry types and urban cowboys.