I live in MT and it's beautiful and grows good crops, depending on what region. Not to mention the game.

The Montana winters aren't even that bad, ha. That's what woodstoves are for;)

Ha, I agree that Idaho, Oregon, Washington would be an easier place to grow things but Montana does have large chunks of cheap land that could easily sustain a large group of people. And you can grow more than beans and corn. I know, I have a garden ever year that more than feeds my family with lots to share:) AND I'm looking at a flock of 30-40 wild turkeys in my yard as I type.
I would be happy in any of the NW states:)

@OOX of Flames I live near a pretty large town/towns so no village starting required:)

Exactly

You plan on driving 30-40 minutes to go visit people but it's not bad.

For sure. We meet up with a couple families once a month just for that. Fellowship with like-minded people.

I know 3 men who are currently running, or have already ran and won, in the local politics.

wow that's beautiful

lots of grazing for cattle though:)

wonder about water...

I think that works better than a "commune." Mostly because of the animosity thing:) Dividing a big chunk of land, 200-300 acres, with 2-3 families would probably be doable.