Scott,
The old car scene is a mixed bag. The local HCCA Region is pretty active and does several events during the year. The local AACA chapter is not very active especially with prewar cars.
Traffic has gotten to be pretty bad but I don't let that stop me from driving my 13 T and 17 Stanley. I live in Cobb county. My brother lives in Forsyth county and he has some nice places to drive. He just recently bought a 13 T and also owns a Model A. He works downtown and has about a 40 mile commute. That would fit into your goal of a one hour commute.
Registering cars is not a problem and antique cars are not subject to high taxes. There are no annual inspections of any sort. Modern cars only have to have smog inspections.
With regard to prewar/ brass car activities there is not much right now, however, there is a small group of brass car owners and we are trying to make some changes. If you own a pre16 car you will want to know more about the upcoming AACA Reliability Tour. I am on the committee that is planning the tour that will be held in Chattanooga, TN in October of this year.
Hope this helps. Let me know if I can answer other questions.
Alan Woolf