Leave family/family pet to move out west or find an in between?

My lease is up soon in the Southeast and I know I can’t stay. It doesn’t feel right here, Southern culture isn’t my thing (eastern NC). I’m super attached to my family’s dog (he’s my soulmate, lol) and seeing him on the weekends means a lot, but I also feel a pull to move out West. I love Seattle, want to visit Denver, and I’m open to other options.

I’m stuck between moving somewhere new on the East Coast, closer for visits, or just taking the leap west. I want coffee shops, vintage stores, pretty nature, some walkable neighborhoods (have a car but car-lite would be cool) and some vegan restaurants. I work remote, 40F, making $70k so high cost of living areas aren’t realistic (don’t want a roommate), dating is a priority and I don’t do well with extreme weather, particularly extreme cold.

Has anyone dealt with leaving pets or family versus moving somewhere you feel called to? I’m also open to East Coast city suggestions that might fit. My lease is up in 4 months and I’m feeling lost.