What is the number 1 place to retire in the United States?

Asked by: Vesta Swift  |  Last update: March 11, 2026
Score: 5/5 (60 votes)

1. Florida. Florida ranks as the best state to retire due to its relatively low taxes, including no estate, inheritance or income taxes.

Where is the best place to retire in the US financially?

Florida, Georgia and Nevada are generally considered among the most tax-friendly states for retirees, while California, Connecticut and Vermont are generally considered among the least tax-friendly states for retirees.

Where is the happiest place to retire?

Florida is the best state to retire in, according to The Motley Fool's methodology. It has warm weather with an average temperature of 72.8ºF, an above-average crime score, a relatively low tax burden, and a strong quality-of-life ranking.

Where is the safest and most affordable place to retire?

Read on to explore the cities with the most affordable housing that notched highly on the U.S. News 2024 Best Places to Retire ranking.
  • Lexington, Kentucky.
  • Oklahoma City.
  • Omaha, Nebraska.
  • Montgomery, Alabama.
  • Davenport, Iowa.
  • Green Bay, Wisconsin.
  • Hickory, North Carolina.
  • Wichita, Kansas.

What state is best financially to retire in?

A: The best state to retire in 2024 is sunny Florida, thanks to its relative affordability and high quality of life for seniors. That's followed by Colorado, Virginia, and Delaware. Q: What state has the lowest cost of living for retirees? A: Alabama ranks as the most affordable state to retire in.

5 Of The Best Places To Retire In America In 2024

20 related questions found

What states have no property tax for seniors?

The following states offer partial exemption on property taxes for seniors and people over 65.
  • Hawaii. In Hawaii, if you're 65 or older, you could knock $160,000 off your home's assessed value, reducing your property tax liability. ...
  • Louisiana. ...
  • Alaska. ...
  • New York. ...
  • Washington. ...
  • Mississippi. ...
  • Florida. ...
  • South Dakota.

Where are retirees moving to in 2024?

It's no secret why Florida continues to be one of the best states to retire in 2024. With a warm and sunny climate, retirees enjoy Florida's beautiful beaches and outdoor activities year-round. From the Gulf Coast to the Atlantic, Florida offers endless opportunities for leisure.

Where is the best place for 70 year olds to live?

Florida, Colorado, and Virginia rank as the top three states for retiring seniors, according to WalletHub.1 In a recent study, they compared all states based on 46 indicators in three key categories: Affordability, which includes tax benefits, cost of living, and more.

Where do most millionaires retire?

The 10 richest retirement towns in the U.S.
  • Ranchos Palos Verdes, California.
  • Highland Park, Illinois.
  • Bainbridge Island, Washington.
  • East Honolulu, Hawaii.
  • Melville, New York.
  • Laguna Beach, California.
  • Paramus, New Jersey.
  • Naples, Florida.

What state do most retirees move to?

Top Inbound Retirement States
  • Florida (39%)
  • South Carolina (37%)
  • Arizona (36%)
  • Delaware (34%)
  • Idaho (29%)
  • Nevada (29%)
  • Wyoming (28%)
  • Mississippi (28%)

What is the happiest state to retire in?

The results

The top two states to retire in according to our formula are — drumroll please — Alaska and New Hampshire!

What states don't tax social security?

All states and the District of Columbia impose these taxes except Alaska, Delaware, Montana, New Hampshire and Oregon. The highest state sales taxes are in California (7.25%), Indiana, Mississippi, Rhode Island and Tennessee (7.0% in each).

What state is best for senior living?

The Best States for Senior Healthcare
  1. Montana – Overall Grade: A+ (100) ...
  2. North Dakota – Overall Grade: A+ (98.3) ...
  3. South Dakota – Overall Grade: A (92.9) ...
  4. Minnesota – Overall Grade: A (92.6) ...
  5. 5. California – Overall Grade: A (92.3)

What country is the safest and cheapest to retire in?

For those who wish to retire to safe havens that offer cheap living expenses, some of the cheapest and safest countries to retire to include Indonesia, Ghana, Romania, North Macedonia, and Vietnam.

What state is most tax-friendly for retirees?

Alaska, Florida, Nevada, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, and Wyoming are the top tax-friendly states for retirees. All of them have no personal income taxes. 1 Other taxes, cost of living, and overall quality of life are also important considerations.

At what age do you stop paying property taxes in USA?

As a senior citizen, you probably will end up paying property taxes for as long as you are a homeowner. However, depending on the state you live in and often once you hit your 60s (usually around the ages of 61 to 65), you may be eligible for a property tax exemption.

What is the most tax-friendly state to live in?

  • Alaska. #1 in Low Tax Burden. #45 in Best States Overall. ...
  • Florida. #2 in Low Tax Burden. #9 in Best States Overall. ...
  • South Dakota. #3 in Low Tax Burden. ...
  • Wyoming. #4 in Low Tax Burden. ...
  • Tennessee. #5 in Low Tax Burden. ...
  • New Hampshire. #6 in Low Tax Burden. ...
  • Texas. #7 in Low Tax Burden. ...
  • Oklahoma. #8 in Low Tax Burden.

What state is best for seniors on social security?

9 Best States to Retire
  • Delaware. Delaware offers a comfortable environment for retirees, boasting a moderate climate that experiences all four seasons without any extremes. ...
  • Georgia. Georgia is a compelling choice for retirees seeking a diverse and enriching lifestyle. ...
  • Maryland. ...
  • New Jersey. ...
  • Pennsylvania. ...
  • South Carolina.

Where is the least expensive place to live for seniors?

Can you retire to a place that's both affordable and fun? We found out.
  • Decatur, Alabama. Cost of living for retirees: 11.0% below U.S. average. ...
  • Prescott, Arizona. ...
  • Hot Springs, Arkansas. ...
  • Grand Junction, Colorado. ...
  • Punta Gorda, Florida. ...
  • Sandy Springs, Georgia. ...
  • Boise, Idaho. ...
  • Bloomington, Indiana.

Is it better to retire to FL or NC?

While North Carolina's tax rate is lower than many states, state income tax in Florida—the top-ranked retirement destination—rings in at a whopping $0. While this may seem like modest savings, every dollar counts if you're on a fixed income: especially considering just how expensive retirement really is.

What is the best beach town to retire in?

Pensacola, Florida

The city of Pensacola, Florida, is situated at the northwest tip of the state, sitting along Pensacola Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. It's a town known for its stunning beach and affordable cost of living, which makes it one of the best coastal towns to retire to.