Considering relocating to Texas

I'd have a hard time believing there aren't a plethora of available better paying engineering jobs in your area. Maybe take another job in the meantime until you figure out the move?
Or work two jobs/ weekends/nights like I did for over the first 40 years
Owing a home, paying it off, money in the bank, living debt free should be the first and foremost priority
Hobby's come a distant second