Expanding the search

After we all get through this weather, ( right now traveling is not good for anyone). I'm going to have to expand my car search. I have family and friends who live in other states. I've heard that Ohio and Iowa are known for their rusting cars, what other places should be avoided because of rust issues? Also, I may have to lower my expectations and settle for a car without a/c. Has anybody here ever done a a/c system on their car? A couple of months ago I missed a 1971 scamp that was super clean, only needed a headliner, a/c compressor was missing but everything else was there.It was a slant 6 car with a asking price was $9,500 obo. I know, I should've not passed on it. I was too worried about the cost of swapping it out for a V/8. I realize that I goofed big time by passing it up.
Hi,

What are you looking for? Sorry I missed that.

Thanks,
Marion