You’ve worked hard to get to this point, and now that you’re retiring, you have freedom and flexibility. So, where should you spend your golden years? The world is your oyster — but you’d prefer to stay in the US.
With 50 options and countless cities and towns to choose from, narrowing your selection down to one place is a big deal! Your final decision depends on many factors, such as your preferred weather, geography, and proximity to family, as well as amenities. Places like Arizona retirement communities make living the laidback life luxurious and restful, so it can be hard to choose!
However, affordability, safety, and healthcare access are crucial aspects to consider as a soon-to-be retiree. Using those factors, we’ve created a list of the top 5 best and worst states to retire as of 2024.
#1 Best: Iowa
Iowa’s affordability and lower cost of living make it ideal for retirees on a budget who also want to enjoy a comfortable quality of living. The state is full of expansive farmlands and quiet, lower-cost countryside homes inside towns where everyone is family. Iowa doesn’t tax your Social Security benefits, which is another reason why retirees love to move here. And its healthcare costs are some of the lowest in the country. If you’re ready to slow down and enjoy nature, a retirement community in Iowa is an excellent choice.
#2 Best: Arizona
On the opposite end of the spectrum is Arizona, topping our list as the best place for retirees who want to stay active and enjoy the benefits of Vitamin D-packed sunshine. This state has a diverse geography and climate, so you may be able to take your boat out on the lake one day and then go snow skiing the next. While there are plenty of slower-paced towns in Arizona, you’ll also find many retirement communities sitting right outside big cities for affordability and easy access to amenities.
#3 Best: Delaware
Delaware? How did Delaware beat out states like Florida for retiring, you may be asking. The reality is that Delaware gets overlooked frequently, but its place as an overall excellent place to live is cemented in facts. Top-quality healthcare, low taxes, a focus on wellness and culture, and a strong arts and entertainment scene make this state a hidden gem. Although it snows, the winters aren’t usually too harsh. You have nearby ocean access, few major storms, and middle-of-the-road crime and affordability.
#4 Worst: Missouri
While Missouri is one of the most affordable states in the country, it ranks significantly low on the list due to its high crime rates, low-quality healthcare, and unpredictable climate. The prevalence of earthquakes, tornadoes, and other natural disasters places Missouri at a “prefer not to take the chance” spot for retirees.
#5 Worst: California
The sun and fun might be calling your name, but don’t let it tempt you to head to California for your retirement years. Not only is the state one of the most expensive to live in out of the whole country, but the high taxes and volatile climate (fires and earthquakes can be common) make it unfriendly for retirees looking for a safe, calm location to live.
Choose Wisely, But Have Fun
The most important thing to ask yourself before you move to a new state is if you can afford to enjoy a great quality of life there. After that, climate, safety, and lifestyle preferences can help you narrow down the rest of your search. Three of these states are retiree-friendly, and moving to the other two should be done only after careful research.
