Retirement is supposed to be a time of bliss and rest. For many retirees, a slow-paced life, great weather, and good healthcare are top of the list.
Your retirement home, or wherever you choose to settle, should give you peace and happiness; to achieve that, choosing the best retirement state should be a priority.
If you’re considering moving in retirement or want to know if your local community checks all the boxes, here are some of the best states to spend your golden years and avoid misery.
1. Florida
Most retirees want a state that offers them a great life quality, and Florida scores big on that front. GoBankingRates lists Florida as the top state offering the best quality of life in general. With its great weather, low cost of living, beaches, and golf courses, it’s easy to see why it’s a favorite.
2. Colorado
Colorado offers excellent outdoor activities and cultural amenities, which are an attraction for many older people who have spent their lives working. It offers a generally healthy lifestyle, a necessity in the golden years.
3. Virginia
With its moderate climate, green landscape, and historical sites, Virginia is a great state to settle in after a lifetime of laboring in the corporate world. It also offers favorable tax treatment for retirees.
4. Delaware
Heavy taxes can weigh down a retiree, and Delaware’s tax-friendly environment is a welcome relief. Its proximity to major cities and coastal living options also adds a few stars to it.
5. Wyoming
Every person (retires or not) wants to feel safe, making Wyoming an excellent choice for many. Wyoming has excellent laws to protect its seniors, in addition to great views and breath-taking nature.
6. Idaho
Idaho also makes the list of the best states to retire to since it does not levy state income taxes on Social Security income. It also boasts low property and sales taxes.
7. New Hampshire
One of New Hampshire’s greatest attractions is that it does not impose state income tax, ensuring that all forms of retirement income remain untaxed. Settling in a strategic location near major cities is a bonus.
8. Montana
A retiree seeking a state that will provide enough recreational activities in all seasons should consider Montana. Its cities also offer relatively lower-priced housing options than most in rural areas, making it a good choice for retirement.
9. Minnesota
A low cost of living is a major consideration for many seniors, which makes Minnesota an excellent choice. Minnesota offers a reasonable cost of living and a reliable healthcare system.
10. Pennsylvania
Retirement benefits aren’t taxed in Pennsylvania, making it a wonderful choice for retirees. It also offers a rich culture and history, enriching residents’ recreational experience.
11. Texas
In addition to the favorable weather, Texas has no state income tax, a lower cost of living in many areas, and diverse cultural offerings, making it a retirement choice for many retirees.
12. Arizona
Its warm climate, lower cost of living, and various outdoor activities make Arizona a great retirement home choice for many as well.
13. Georgia
Anyone who wants to avoid extreme climate can take Georgia as a retirement state of choice (just prepare for humid summers!). It offers a relatively mild climate, a lower cost of living, and tax benefits for retirees.
14. North Carolina
North Carolina gives you just that if you want a retirement state with great views. With a mix of mountains and coastline, a reasonable cost of living, and tax advantages for retirees, it is an excellent state to retire to.
15. South Carolina
South Carolina gives coastal and inland options for anyone who wants the best of both worlds. It also offers a favorable tax environment and historical charm to keep the days interesting.
16. Tennessee
With no state income tax, a relatively lower cost of living, and a range of outdoor attractions, Tennessee is a great attraction for retirees.
17. Nevada
The lack of tax on retirement benefits is a great attraction for many retirees, and Nevada shields them from this. With no state income tax and diverse entertainment options, Nevada is also a good choice to retire to.
18. Utah
With no deadlines to meet, retirement is the prime time to enjoy most of the things denied by working life, and Utah provides beautiful outdoor recreational opportunities. It records relatively low crime rates, which is great for senior living too.
19. New Mexico
New Mexico has a unique southwestern culture that offers retirees a wonderful experience. Its diverse landscapes and affordability are the icing on the cake.
20. Oregon
With its scenic beauty, outdoor activities, and mild climate in certain areas, Oregon is an ideal option to retire to.
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JayDee Vykoukal is a writer, author, mom, and Doctor of Physical Therapy. She has been writing about everything motherhood and health-related since 2018 when her first daughter was born, and she wanted to stay home. She loves to research new topics and fun facts with her kids to teach them about the world.
