There were some issues with me wanting to move to Iowa and that started a whirlwind of problems about me "abandoning" our friendship.
Were you a serious couple, with intentions to be married or just friends?
All I can say is that when you move out of state, it weakens relationships and sometimes they just dwindle. "Out of sight out of mind."
We frequently spend time with friends and family when we are nearby. That's really all we can give to someone, our time. We break bread together, enjoy experiences, recreational or whatever ... but when you leave, it stops abruptly. You cut the family cord and/ friendship cord. Your support system is now just an occasional call on the phone, a visit once a year ... the relationship changes.
I moved away from my family and friends from CT to CA. when I was 20 years old. I didn't lose my family, I just missed out on sharing a lot more time with them. I missed many weddings, funerals, holidays. They are still my family but you cannot be close if you are distant. You cannot depend on them, nor can they depend on you at a moment's notice. You can't just drop by or meet for lunch tomorrow. You can't call Billy up and shoot some hoops later on in the day.
I chose California over them. It was a selfish endeavor at the time and a sacrifice (loss), that I didn't realize until years later. I didn't lose my family, just hundreds of memories and closeness. I lost a best friend. You can't be best friends 3000 miles away. At best, we talked a couple times a year.
Some people do not want to leave their families, their town, friends and church. They grew up and have found contentment and comfort there. Their roots are planted. I was young, not a Christian at the time and selfish. The beach, the weather and even job opportunities in my field were great, but it didn't replace sharing time with loved ones. I just had one girl ... and then another and then another, finally married, had a kid and realized that my kid would grow up without my loving family around.
This is a transient world now isn't it. A century ago families stayed close. Now they spread their wings and start a new life _ apart. You are separated.
So it does feel like you are abandoning them for a new life, job or change of scenery. Why? Because you think the grass must be greener on the other side. It isn't.