I would consider a puffy for warmth but also for packability (not a word I'm sure). If you're traveling back and forth from California to Ohio it would be nice to easily stuff it in a carry-on suitcase.

I have a Norrona lightweight (that's the name btw) puffy that I really like. The brand isn't cheap but everything has held up over the years.

If packability :) wasn't an issue I would consider a wool coat. I have a Filson pea coat that I love but you'd probably want something that zips up. I feel like there's a bit of a cool factor because you don't see them as much these days, and wool just feels nice imo....and of course you will stay warm if wool gets wet.