J.W.
I don't think any state is an "alimony" state. I live in Missouri and the only reason I got spousal support was because *he* wouldn't let me work outside the home and *he* wouldn't let me go back to college. Oh and *he* was stupid enough to tell the judge that women should be barefoot and pregnant. Yup, married a winner there. :p
I was awarded a good amount of support capped at four years to allow me to get a four year degree without losing the house. I showed him, I got a five and a half year degree in that four years. I like to stretch my bucks!
So pretty much if you can prove that due to the nature of your marital structure you are unable to support your lifestyle the court will award you support for a period of time to achieve that ability. The days of staying home fully supported by your ex are long gone.