If you do have an ASC diagnosis, then I would first search out the cities that have the better autism facilities. (And, yes, I definitely think you'd need to live in the city in order to get adequate public transport.) But first determine where those various locations are, then contact the autism facilities to inquire about getting support, going through the process, basically all the questions and concerns you've said here.
What you need is a social worker who's weather the local climate you're wanting to move into; someone experienced will know the ins and outs. S/he can help you work the system, find a proper apartment for the price range, get on food stamps, get help for utilities, and any other things like that. But the local autism center can ideally be your initial guide as to whether this is feasible.
Would you have the money for moving?