What area to live in? The only possible reason I can think of for a "cold-shoulder" would be if you weren't old enough to join the 501st.
However, I'm certain that there's scores of SW fans (young & old) out there who have armor or costumes and don't belong to any particular organization.
I remember first starting out in my quest to become a "sandie" the gang here were more than thrilled to give assistance & advice. Don't get discouraged!
Guns
I live a couple of hours north of Sacramento in a town called Redding. There might be fans up but they don't show it.