If your family earns less than around $65k, I would definitely look into QuestBridge: QuestBridge | National College Match. You can rank up to 20 schools and potentially be matched to the highest school on your list that is also wanting to admit you, and students accepted via QB receive a full ride, I believe.
I’ve heard good things about the South Dakota School of Mines & Technology. If you’re quite sure on physics (or another STEM major), you might want to consider it as one of your in-state safeties.
If you’re wanting a more liberal environment, I’m not sure if Auburn and Ole Miss are the best fits for you. U. of Maine or U. of Louisville also offer generous merit to National Merit Finalists and might be more liberal as well.
This thread is also a goldmine of info: Big merit NMF/NMSF schools and their specialties
My brain is losing steam, but I’ll come back later with other suggestions.