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Join me as we explore the best states for seniors, look at trends in retired living communities, and find the best states for retirement taxes in the United States.
Retirement is not the end of the road but more like a choice of different off-ramps on an open highway.
This article is intended to help you make the right choice for the best states for seniors to live in, and I have found some great tips on healthy living for seniors that I share.
Want to know more about the Snowbird Lifestyle? Read this article and more on our blog!
Are You Ready to Retire in One of the Best States for Seniors?
How do you picture your retirement? Some dream of sandy beaches, while others prefer crisp mountain air. Maybe staying close to family is your top priority. No matter your vision, choosing the best state for seniors is a big decision.
The right state should offer affordable housing, good healthcare, and a tax-friendly environment. Taxes in retirement can affect your budget, so finding a place with lower costs helps stretch your savings. Some states also provide better senior benefits, making them more attractive for retirees.
With more flexibility than ever, retirees can move to different climate regions in the United States that match their lifestyle. Whether you prefer a warm climate state in the winter or mild summers in the mountains, you have options.
Snowbirds Flock to Retired Communities in Florida
Many retirees split their time between states. These “snowbirds” migrate south each winter, looking for sunshine and milder temperatures. Retired communities in Florida see a surge in seasonal residents who enjoy the weather, beaches, and active lifestyle.
If you’re planning a seasonal move, car shipping can make travel easier. Instead of driving long distances, have your car delivered safely to your winter or summer home. Learn about snowbird car shipping and get expert advice on relocating to the best states for seniors.
Want to retire somewhere with low taxes and great healthcare? Keep reading to discover the best states for retirement taxes and affordable living!
Contact a consultant for shipping advice to any of the best states for seniors.
Florida Car Transport
Where do you think the most communities for retired senior citizens are? Well, Floridians have for many years been the self-proclaimed retirement Nirvana for U.S. citizens from all over the country. But there are a whole bunch of other states that are in the running as the best state for seniors.
Don’t worry, we will look at these a bit further along. If you love hot weather, diversity and culture, consider Florida as the best state for climate refugees in the United States.
So, what do you do when it’s time to retire and you are moving to Florida? When you need to move your vehicle from one of the retired communities in Atlanta, to your favorite retired golf communities in Orlando, Nationwide Auto Transportation is your best choice for Florida car transport.
Don’t forget your FREE AI Assisted QUOTE!
How did we decide what are the best states for seniors to retire? We looked at:
- Affordability
- Wellness
- Culture
- Weather
- Crime
Inflation and Price
Inflation and the prices of real estate are only heading higher, moreover this has seen an increase of people over 65 needing to stretch their budgets. This makes affordability one of the biggest factors when we assess what are the best states for retired seniors.
Not everyone needs to move to a new state though. If you are happily living near everything you love and need, and your house is paid off, why bother? Sunny states top the list of best states for seniors to retire, however there are those who prefer cooler climates. Maybe you prefer the great mountain ranges or colder lake areas in the country? Read more about how to ship your recreational vehicle, on top of this remember that Nationwide Auto Transportation has more than 16 years experience when it comes to RV and other auto shipping.
Best States for Seniors to Live in | Points to Ponder
- Your choice of the best state to retire in for you has a direct impact on your financial situation, and can make the difference whether your retirement will be your golden years, or something less bright.
- Do a thorough evaluation on your current financial and living situation in your current state. You may already be living in one of the best states for retired seniors.
- Factor in these costs:
- Moving costs
- Cost of Living
- Taxes
- Amenities
- Healthcare access
- Wherever possible visit the cities and areas that you would like to retire in. This will give you the best feeling of whether you will feel at home there, or if you should continue looking.
Have you considered retiring in another state? Cheapest States to Retire in the United States… and Why Move There?, is an informative read with relevant facts about some of the best places for seniors to live in the United States. Having said that, let’s check out the best states for taxes in retirement.
Best States for Retirement Income Taxes
One of the questions that people between the age of 60 to 65 ask is, “Do you pay taxes on retirement income?”
Everyone has their own unique financial concerns about how to reduce taxes in retirement, and knowing which states are more tax-friendly to your specific requirements can help you secure peace of mind after retirement.
The Internal Revenue Service has valuable information regarding Tax Information for Seniors and Retirees, and below we list the top concerns retirees often raise:
- Taxes on Social Security
- 401k Taxes after retirement
- Property Tax Levies
- Taxes on retirement income
Are there any states with no taxes on retirement income?
Most Americans are facing financial fears of some type, and when retirement looms, these fears can get amplified. When you are working on a tight budget and doing your best to make your dollar stretch a little further, it helps knowing which states offer tax incentives when you are planning to retire.
Here’s an updated categorization of states based on their tax-friendliness towards retirees in 2025. Please note that “tax-friendly” is a spectrum and depends on the specific types of retirement income and individual financial situations.
| Most Tax Friendly | Somewhat Tax Friendly | Moderately Tax Friendly | Not Tax Friendly at all |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alaska | Alabama | Arizona | California |
| Florida | Arkansas | District of Columbia | Connecticut |
| Nevada | Colorado | Hawaii | Maine |
| South Dakota | Delaware | Indiana | Minnesota |
| Tennessee | Idaho | Iowa | Nebraska |
| Texas | Illinois | Kansas | Rhode Island |
| Wyoming | Kentucky | Maryland | Vermont |
| Louisiana | Massachusetts | ||
| Michigan | Missouri | ||
| Mississippi | Montana | ||
| New Hampshire | New Jersey | ||
| Oklahoma | New Mexico | ||
| Pennsylvania | New York | ||
| South Carolina | North Carolina | ||
| Virginia | North Dakota | ||
| Washington | Ohio | ||
| West Virginia | Oregon | ||
| Utah | |||
| Wisconsin | |||
| May offer: | May offer: | May offer: | May offer: |
| No state income tax | No tax on Social Security income | Less incentives and deductions than first two column states | No or little retirement income tax benefits. |
| No/greatly reduced retirement income taxes | Additional deductions on all, or some, retirement incomes | ✲Less affordable | ✲Less affordable |
| Affordable Sales tax | Less affordable | ||
| Property tax benefits | |||
| No Estate or Inheritance tax |
Key Updates and Considerations for 2025
- States with No State Income Tax: Alaska, Florida, Nevada, New Hampshire, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Washington, and Wyoming remain the states with no state income tax in 2025. However, it’s important to note that New Hampshire’s tax on interest and dividends is set to be fully repealed in 2025. Washington has a 7% tax on long-term capital gains above a certain threshold.
- Social Security Benefits: As of 2025, 41 states and the District of Columbia generally do not tax Social Security benefits. The nine states that do still tax Social Security benefits are Colorado, Connecticut, Minnesota, Montana, New Mexico, Rhode Island, Utah, Vermont, and West Virginia. However, some of these states offer deductions or income limits. West Virginia is in the process of phasing out its Social Security tax entirely by 2026. Missouri, Nebraska, and Kansas have recently eliminated their tax on Social Security benefits.
Retirement Income Exemptions, Property Taxes, Estates
- Retirement Income Exemptions: States like Illinois, Iowa, Mississippi, and Pennsylvania offer complete exemptions on most types of retirement income, including pensions and distributions from 401(k)s and IRAs, even though they may have a state income tax. Iowa’s exemption now applies to residents over 55.
- Property Taxes: States with some of the lowest average property tax rates in 2025 include Hawaii, Alabama, Colorado, Nevada, and Louisiana. However, the actual amount paid depends on property values, which can be high even in low-tax-rate states (e.g., Hawaii). Some states offer property tax relief or exemptions for seniors.
- Sales Taxes: States with no or very low state sales taxes include Delaware, Montana, New Hampshire, and Oregon. Alaska has no state sales tax but allows local sales taxes.
- Estate and Inheritance Taxes: Several of the most tax-friendly states (like Florida, Nevada, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, and Wyoming) also do not have state estate or inheritance taxes.
Important Note: Tax laws are subject to change. Retirees should always consult with a financial advisor or tax professional for personalized advice based on their specific circumstances and the latest regulations in their state of residence.
Detailed Tax Advantages of the Top 4 States to Retire in
When you are looking for the best states for seniors, moving to the cheapest states for taxes can keep you financially afloat for a much longer time. As you have seen there are a few factors that influence retirees when it comes to choosing the best state for retirement in the United States, and taxes in retirement is an important one. This said, here are 4 of the best states for retirement taxes.
Florida | The Sunshine State Welcomes Retirees (and Their Cars!)
Imagine cruising down Florida’s scenic highways with the top down, knowing your retirement income is stretching further thanks to the state’s tax-friendly policies. With warm weather and beautiful beaches calling, it’s no wonder many seniors choose to relocate here.
- No State Income Tax: Retirement income, including Social Security, pensions, and 401(k)/IRA withdrawals, is not taxed at the state level .
- No Estate or Inheritance Tax: Heirs won’t face state taxes on inherited assets .
- Moderate Sales Tax: The average combined state and local sales tax is around 6.95% .
- Homestead Exemption: Homeowners can reduce their taxable property value by up to $50,000 . Seniors may also qualify for additional property tax breaks .
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Wyoming | Hit the Open Road to Savings in the Equality State
Wyoming’s vast landscapes and low tax burden make it an appealing destination for retirees looking for both adventure and financial peace of mind. Picture yourself enjoying the freedom of the open road with more of your retirement savings in your pocket.
- No State Income Tax: Retirement income is exempt from state taxation .
- No Inheritance or Estate Tax: Passing on assets to beneficiaries is state tax-free .
- Low Sales Tax: The average combined state and local sales tax rate is relatively low at 5.44% .
- Low Property Tax: The effective property tax rate is 0.55% . Property tax relief is available for low-income seniors and veterans .
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Texas | Everything’s Bigger in Texas, Including Your Retirement Savings
With no state income tax and a vibrant culture, Texas offers retirees a compelling combination of financial benefits and a lively atmosphere. Imagine the ease of settling into a new Texan lifestyle, knowing your retirement funds are going further.
- No State Income Tax: Retirement income, including Social Security, pensions, and withdrawals, is not taxed .
- No Inheritance or Estate Tax: Texas does not impose these taxes .
- Higher Property Tax: The property tax rate is higher at 1.47% . However, there’s a homestead exemption and an additional exemption for those over 65 or disabled .
- Sales Tax: The average combined state and local sales tax rate is 8.2% .
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Nevada | a Safe Bet for Retirement
The Silver State has many golden tax savings for over 65s, including no state income, estate or inheritance taxes that retirees need to worry about. Your Social Security check will stretch a little more, but you do pay slightly higher state and local sales tax.
- State Income Tax Range: 0%
- Median State and Local Sales Tax Rate: 8.23%
- Median Property Tax Rate: $572 per $100,000 of assessed value
- Estate Tax or Inheritance Tax: None
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The Cheapest States for Rent in the U.S.
As housing costs continue to rise across the country, finding affordable rent is a top priority for many, especially seniors living on a fixed income. The cheapest states for rent in the U.S. offer an opportunity for retirees and budget-conscious individuals to maintain a comfortable lifestyle without financial strain. These states not only provide low-cost housing but also have a lower overall cost of living, making them ideal choices for those relying on Social Security benefits or limited retirement funds.
If you’re considering relocating for more affordable living, it’s important to plan for transportation logistics as well. Moving to a budget-friendly state might mean transporting your vehicle across the country, which can be both costly and stressful. Nationwide Auto Transportation can help make this process affordable and a happy one.
Looking for a retirement-friendly environment with plenty of activities? Keep reading to discover The Best States for Active Seniors!
🏡 The Rent is Cheapest in Iowa
With nearly 18% of Iowa’s residents over the age of 65, it’s no surprise that affordability plays a key role in making it one of the best states for retirees. Low rental prices are a primary reason Iowa ranks as the most affordable state overall for seniors living on Social Security.
📌 2025 Average Rent: $943
📌 Cost of Living Index: 88.1
🎸 Most Affordable Mississippi
Mississippi boasts a cost of living 17% below the national average, making it a great choice for seniors looking to stretch their retirement income. While rent may not be the absolute lowest, Mississippi still holds the title for the lowest cost of living in the U.S.. This means you can save in other areas like groceries, healthcare, and transportation.
📌 2025 Average Rent: $966
📌 Cost of Living Index: 83.1
💎 Anchor in Affordable Arkansas
Known for its diamond mines, Arkansas is also a hidden gem for budget-conscious renters. It ties with Iowa for the lowest rental prices and remains one of the cheapest states for seniors to retire in. With a low cost of living and affordable amenities, Arkansas is a great place to call home.
📌 2025 Average Rent: $924
📌 Cost of Living Index: 89.9
🚗 Make Your Move Stress-Free
If you’re considering relocating to one of these budget-friendly states, transporting your vehicle can be a major concern. Nationwide Auto Transportation offers reliable and affordable car shipping services to help you move trouble-free.
But affordability isn’t the only factor in choosing where to retire—what about lifestyle? Up next, we explore The Best States for Active Seniors and where you can enjoy an engaging, fulfilling retirement!
The Best States for Active Seniors
You would have noticed that there are several factors that determine the best states for retirees and seniors, and all of them seem equally important don’t they?
Active seniors need space, fresh air and enough activities to keep them entertained and busy. That said, factors like access to healthcare facilities, affordable housing, and low crime rates were also considered when I looked for the state with the best activities for retired folk.
And the winners of the best cities to retire in for active over 65s are…
Active Senior Retirement States | What to Know
There are thousands of unique retirement communities that are dotted throughout the country, so how do you know where is the best place for you to retire? What should you look for in the best walkable cities in the United States for seniors?
Here are a few things to consider when you are running around looking for the best state for active seniors:
- What kind of jobs are there for retirees?
- Property prices
- Health care
- Exercise opportunities
- Local crime trends
- Are there agencies who find jobs for retirees or boomers?
- What retirement activities for couples are available?
- Are there any suitable retired golf communities?
Your ideal state for active retirement has enough activities to keep you busy for two more lifetimes, a low crime rate, a job market with space for over 65s, and there are more than enough quality healthcare facilities that are easily acceptable.
America is the land of opportunities, even for over 65s. Whether you like fishing for tarpon in Florida, or horse-riding on the Montana plains – there are many of the cheapest states for seniors that offer a plethora of activities for those reaching, or living, retirement age.
Daily Activities for Retirees
Boredom can be the silent killer for retirees. Although this time is meant as a reward, full of excitement and happiness… loneliness and boredom can make it very painful. To unlock the goodness you need to make sure that your time is taken up by interesting and healthy activities.
Finding a healthy balance in your personal finance is just as important as it is to keep a healthy mind and body. Having said all that, I’ve made a short little retirement activities guide that includes retirement activities to keep the old ticker tocking! If you had to type in what kind of retirement activities are near me, below could be your results:
- It is very important to exercise and to track your health
- Stay in touch with family and close friends
- Create passive income streams
- Spend time outdoors
- Have a strict budget that you stick to
It is very rewarding to give back to your community in your golden years, therefore it is a great idea to find out what volunteer activities for retirees are available. Another pertinent question to ask is what kind of part time jobs for retirees are available in the state or city that you are looking at for retirement.
Reading is also a great pastime for seniors, and there are many free e-book providers. Read to learn and read for fun, but keep reading.
Best States for Weather When You Retire
There are 7 significant climate zones in the United States:
- Northwest Coastal
- High Plains
- Midwest
- Mid-Atlantic
- Southeast
- South
- Southwest.
These regions have their own unique weather patterns with varying amounts and types of precipitation (snow, hail, rain, etc.), as well as different temperatures. There are some over 65s who cannot tolerate cold, snowy winters, just as there are those who cannot live without it, and the opposite is also true for those who follow the sun all year round.
The National Weather Service keeps you updated on the latest weather in your area, and whether you live in one of the best states for climate change, or in a less temperate one, Nationwide Auto Transportation is your professional auto shipping partner. See what their clients have to say!
Ready for a hassle-free vehicle move from Tulsa? Dive into our Tulsa Car Shipping Service guide, where we detail the seamless process, offer expert tips, and help you prepare for a smooth transition.
With Nationwide Auto Transportation, your journey from Tulsa to your next destination is in safe hands. Discover why our customers trust us with their prized vehicles and how we give top-notch service every mile of the way.
Year-Round Nice Weather Places for Retirement
There are a few states and cities with temperate climates in the United States throughout the year. The places we chose have a median high temperature of 90°F in July, and in January the mercury does not fall below 32° F. They are also affordable and some are even on the list for best states for seniors to retire in.
Astoria, Oregon
This picturesque fishing village is surrounded by forests and is just a hop, skip, and a jump from the Pacific Ocean.
There are many parts in Oregon where the extreme cold and heat can be avoided, and Astoria ranks right up with the best climate in the midwest region of the United States. It hardly ever snows here and the July high only reaches 67°F.
January low temperature: 38°F
July high temperature: 67°F
Normal precipitation: 67 inches
Atlanta, Georgia
The birthplace of Coca-Cola, and the capital of Georgia, has more than enough activities and attractions to keep any over 65, fit, warm, and happy. Aquariums, amusement parks or museums – the city has it all for seniors, and even more for younger folk.
Atlanta may have some fairly hot summers, but if you chose it as the best place for retirement for you, expect mild winters and rare snowfalls and cold snaps that pass quickly.
January low temperature: 34°F
July high temperature: 89°F
Normal precipitation: 50 inches
Eureka, California
Eureka embodies everything that is California, and then some. Redwoods, Antique Victorian architecture, craggy coastlines, and a booming cannabis industry… there is something for everyone, whether you are 16, or 67!
California is not only one of the best states to live in for climate change, it is the best state for seniors who enjoy pleasant temperatures throughout the year. Most of the towns and cities in northern California don’t dip below freezing in winter and summers are quite balmy. A hot summer’s day is a rarity with the median high for summer at 63°F, while in contrast winter days average a low of 41°F. Situated on the shores of Humboldt Bay, it can get extremely foggy at times.
January low temperature: 41°F
July high temperature: 63°F
Normal precipitation: 40 inches
Healthy Vibe = Healthy Retirement
Can you guess what percentage of Americans are over 65? The U.S. Census Bureau reports that at the moment the 56 million over 65s account for just under 17% of the country’s population. With this said, it helps to know where the best places for a healthy retirement are, and healthy seniors can look at any of the places below for a healthy and happy time in their golden years.
Yavapai County, Arizona
This is as close to the old west as any retiree will get to live in. A rustic lifestyle set against a backdrop of jaw-dropping, natural beauty, Yavapai County includes the cities of Prescott, Chino Valley, Sedona and Camp Verde.
The county was founded in 1864 and is amongst the oldest in the country, as are the people who live there – Nearly 28% of the population has reached 65 and older. The town has 136 primary care physicians.
Curry County, Oregon
Port Orford, Gold Beach and Brookings makes up this Oregon county of around 24, 000 souls. Curry County is the county with the fastest growing population of over 65s in the country. More than 30% of the residents here are over retirement age, which is testament to the area’s healthy aging for seniors.
One of the reasons why Oregon is amongst the best states for healthy seniors, is the many recreational activities that include parks and other places that encourage physical activity and seniors healthy living. There are 16 primary care physicians in Curry County.
San Juan County, Washington
With only 15% of adults that do not do any physical activity, San Juan County is rated as having the healthiest retirement community in the country. The obesity rate is very low compared to the rest of the U.S., and when compared to national averages, less people smoke or drink excessively.
Friday Harbor and Waldron are two of the picturesque towns in the county that seniors find appealing as a choice for retirement. The county has more mental health care providers per person than in any other state. There are 11 primary care physicians in San Juan County. If you want to know how seniors stay healthy here, a visit to the Salish Sea county is a must.
How Seniors Stay Healthy – 6 Tips
Here are a few tips to show how activities promote a healthy lifestyle for seniors. Healthy living should start long before you reach retirement age, but what can you do to stay fit and healthy when you reach your golden years?
- Stay, or get active
- Take your supplements
- A healthy diet is paramount
- Frequent hands wash can protect your immune system
- Manage your stress
- Make sure you get loads of rest
How social connections keep seniors happy? Loneliness can be a mental, and physical, destroyer and it is important to know how social connections keep seniors healthy. A strong social network for over 65s helps with improved life quality and an overall improvement of the retirement experience.
As we start the final section that covers what states have the best healthcare for seniors, here is an article for those seniors who like vintage and classic cars. By the way, if you own one of these you should consider enclosed or classic car shipping when it is time to move to your retirement state of choice.
What are the Best States for Healthcare for Seniors?
When we started looking at what states offer the best medical benefits for seniors, it became evident that Americans over 65 want quality and affordable healthcare. There are more than 65,000 Baby Boomer candles blown out every day—that’s 10,000 new retirees every day, and the number is set to continue growing.
With great age comes great medical bills! This article has proven that not all things are equal, and that there are states that are better for retirement than others, for various reasons. That said, here are the top 5 cheapest states for healthcare in the U.S.
| State | Rank | Total |
| Minnesota | 1 | 66.70 |
| North Dakota | 2 | 65.02 |
| Massachusetts | 3 | 62.12 |
| California | 4 | 61.72 |
| Nebraska | 5 | 61.55 |
Car Shipping to the Best States for Seniors
Eventually the time comes when we all have to say that enough is enough… and that is usually when you reach the age of 65, and that is when seniors start looking for the best state for them to retire in. This, and other recent articles, have shown that retirees are looking for ways to make their retirement fund last longer, and moving to the cheapest state for seniors can stretch your dollar a little further.
Nationwide Auto Transportation understands the financial and time constraints when it comes to shipping your car to another state. Our knowledgeable consultants will assist you with the best route to your new hometown – Contact Us today for your free quote and if you are over 65, ask for an extra $50 off your quoted price!
