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Senior Living

Best States to Retire

7 min readJune 10, 2024
David Haass

Written By

David Haass
Ashlee Zareczny

Reviewed By

Ashlee Zareczny
Best States to Retire

Key Takeaways

  • Florida, Arizona, and Tennessee consistently rank among the top states for retirees
  • Tax-friendliness, healthcare quality, and cost of living are the top factors to consider
  • Medicare plan availability and Medigap options vary significantly by state

Where is the Best State To Retire?

The 'best' state to retire depends on your priorities. Florida offers warm weather and no state income tax. Arizona provides dry heat and affordable living. Tennessee has no income tax on wages and a low cost of living. Delaware is tax-friendly and has excellent healthcare. The right choice depends on your health needs, budget, family proximity, and lifestyle preferences.

What Are the Best States To Retire Financially?

StateIncome Tax on SSProperty TaxCost of Living
FloridaNoneLow-ModerateModerate
TennesseeNoneLowLow
NevadaNoneLowModerate
WyomingNoneLowLow
DelawareNone on SSVery LowModerate
GeorgiaPartial exemptionLowLow

Best States for 55+ Communities

Florida leads the nation in 55+ communities, with The Villages (the largest 55+ community in the world), Sun City Center, and hundreds of other active adult communities. Arizona (Sun City, Scottsdale), South Carolina (Hilton Head, Myrtle Beach), and North Carolina (Asheville, Charlotte) also have thriving 55+ communities.

Best States To Retire for Weather

  • Florida - warm year-round, though humid summers and hurricane risk

  • Arizona - dry heat, mild winters, low humidity

  • California - mild coastal climate, though high cost of living

  • Hawaii - ideal year-round weather, very high cost of living

  • North Carolina - four seasons, mild winters in coastal areas

Best States To Retire for Healthcare

Healthcare quality and Medicare plan availability vary significantly by state. Minnesota, Massachusetts, and Hawaii consistently rank highest for healthcare quality. Florida and Arizona offer extensive Medicare Advantage plan options due to their large senior populations. Rural states often have fewer Medicare Advantage plan choices, making Original Medicare with a Medigap supplement a better option.

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