As it was stated, if you live in a blue state (or DC which might as well be one), finding a job is much easier and there are often anti-discrimination protections. Also move to a CITY, a large one or one with a well known liberal bias. As much as people in the south do not believe it makes a difference to live in a large northern city, it makes a HUGE difference as far as employment. I live in DC, I am out at work, transitioned on the job, living full time.
Education though also makes a huge difference. If you can apply to professional level jobs you are going to be alot better off.