My main query was how simply changing locations can so drastically change peoples mindset on this.

I'm not even comparing myself. Just the general population.

I do almost everything myself primarily to save money, but also because often it's the only way to get it done correctly IME.

I totally get that most people have neither the knowledge or tools to do most of what I do, but paying someone to wash a window (no ladder), when they're living paycheck to paycheck, boggles my mind.

Side note:
Many years ago, Home Depot tried to open a store here. They were shut out politically by a powerful local family who owns the only "sort-of" home improvement store in town. They instead built their store 80 miles north in Crescent City. Probably a good decision in hindsight.