Truck to pull TT that's readily available & not too $?

Your area of the country is certainly conducive to finding something older and rust free. I would just keep looking for something in the AZ, TX areas.
I bought my now 14 yr old TV sight unseen except pictures from an auto broker out of San Antonio and had it shipped here to Mich. Couldn't be happier with it and the entire buying experience.
Good trucks under 10 to 12k are hard to find but they pop up occasionally and sell quickly.
Good luck in your search!