Top 10 Best States to Retire in 2022

Picking the state where you’re going to spend your retirement is a big decision and it might be overwhelming to consider the pros and cons of all of the potential locations you might be interested in. To make it easier for you, we have a list of the top 10 retirement states, and a selection of reasons why these are the best states to retire in 2022.

Find out what Nevada has to offer retirees! See the best places to live in Nevada.

Best States to Retire in 2022

best states to retire

Arizona

No matter where in Arizona you choose to retire, you will be within a few hours of major historic sites, stunning National Parks, beautiful golf courses, and you’ll be able to explore them while enjoying the warm desert weather. Arizona is also a great option for retirement due to the health benefits you can gain from simply being in the state: the state’s desert climate reduces the number of common allergens and some people who move here find relief from seasonal allergies.

Where to Retire in Arizona

  • Sedona
  • Tucson
  • Scottsdale
  • Prescott

Fun Fact: The world’s largest rosebush is located in Tombstone, Arizona. According to the Guinness Book of World Records, the rosebush spans 9,000 square feet!

best states to retire

Florida

Florida is a great place to retire to if you want to relax and enjoy the sun and sand! The state boasts some of the country's most incredible beachside destinations and extraordinary golf courses. There are also a high number of retirement communities in Florida, so if you’re interested in moving to one, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from. Florida is also rich in culture and history - you can experience art, museums, incredible architecture, and more without having to go too far.

Where to Retire in Florida

  • St. Augustine
  • Tampa
  • Jacksonville

Fun Fact: Florida is the state with the highest number of golf courses - over 1,300.

best states to retire

Nevada

Nevada is one of the top retirement states in the U.S. thanks to its great weather, no state income taxes, and low cost of living. Apart from that, it is a state with gorgeous scenery, and you can enjoy the perks of living within hours of these outdoor escapes and the excitement of Las Vegas or Reno. Nevada also has a growing number of 55+ retirement communities which make it a convenient place to retire to.

Where to Retire in Nevada

Fun Fact: Nevada is home to an incredibly high number of wild horses. There were at least 43,000 at the last count.

best states to retire

Wyoming

If you want to live a relaxed outdoor lifestyle, Wyoming may be the perfect state for you to retire to. Not only is it generally affordable, but it was rated as one of the most tax friendly states for retirees in 2019. Wyoming also has a large number of 55+ communities, so if you choose to retire here you’ll have plenty of options of neighborhoods and communities. There are also a large number of healthcare facilities within the state borders, making it a great choice.

Where to Retire in Wyoming

  • Jackson
  • Cheyenne
  • Casper

Fun Fact: Despite being a landlocked state, Wyoming has 35 islands within its borders.

best states to retire

Texas

Texas boasts low-income taxes, low costs of living, and mild winters, which are three key factors that make it a great state for retirees. There are also many key historic sites and rich cultural attractions throughout the state. Texas has incredible canyons, deserts, and national parks. The capital city of Austin is home to the South by Southwest music and film festival, which is an annual event that draws tens of thousand of attendees every year. It doesn’t matter if you prefer the charm of a small town or vibrant city living - you’ll be able to find it in Texas!

Where to Retire in Texas

  • Austin
  • San Antonio
  • Fort Worth

Fun Fact: The soft drink Dr. Pepper was invented in Waco, Texas in 1885.

the best states to retire in

Utah

Utah is widely considered an ideal place to retire due to its beautiful landscape, low crime rate, thriving business opportunities, and the rich culture including the Sundance Film Festival. It’s also a healthy state - residents are expected to live to 80.2 years old compared to the national average of 78.9 years. There are also many excellent hospitals and medical facilities throughout the state. If you love the outdoors, you’ll also love Utah for its gorgeous scenery, incredible National Parks, and spectacular ski destinations.

Where to Retire in Utah

  • Salt Lake City
  • St. George
  • Provo

Fun Fact: Utah is a great state for nature enthusiasts - it is the only state where every single county includes a portion of a national forest.

the best states to retire in

California

Known as “The Golden State”, California is a great state for retirement thanks to the beautiful weather, the variety in the landscape, and the abundance of historic and cultural attractions. California is a great state to retire if you love the outdoors - there are beautiful hikes, stunning coastlines, and sparkling lakes and rivers. California is also one of the states where social security benefit payments are tax exempt, which makes it a great state for retirement.

Where to Retire in California

  • Palm Springs
  • San Diego
  • Eureka

Fun Fact: California is a wine lovers paradise: the state produces more than 300,000 tons of grapes each year, some of which turn into the 17 million gallons of wine that is produced annually in California’s many world-renowned vineyards.

the best states to retire in

South Carolina

South Carolina has become a popular state for vacations for many reasons, and those same reasons make it a great option for retirement as well. From the sunny weather and the beautiful coastline to the world-class golf courses and other recreational activities, this state has everything you need to relax and enjoy yourself every single day. South Carolina also does not tax social security benefits, and the state has not implemented inheritance or estate taxes.

Where to Retire in South Carolina

  • Charleston
  • Greenville
  • Myrtle Beach

Fun Fact: The first game of golf that was played in the United States took place in Charleston, South Carolina in 1788.

the best states to retire in

Vermont

Retiring in Vermont has many benefits, including a low crime rate. The Vermont Department of Disabilities, Aging & Independent Living is also committed to ensuring that their mission is successful: they work to “make Vermont the best state in which to grow old or to live with a disability - with dignity, respect and independence.” Apart from this, Vermont offers a delightful range of outdoor activities that will help you enjoy your time and relax.

Where to Retire in Vermont

  • Montpelier
  • Burlington
  • Vergennes

Fun Fact: The name Vermont comes from two French words, “vert” and “mont”, that translate to “green mountain”.

the best states to retire in

Idaho

Idaho is one of the best states to retire in due to its low cost of living, especially for housing. If you’re interested in outdoor or mountain living, you’ll want to consider retiring in Idaho. The state is home to 30 National Parks, including a portion of Yellowstone National Park. Idaho is great if you are looking for a retreat and don’t mind cold weather. It’s also a great option if you are actually seeking the cold weather, as there are 18 ski resorts you can enjoy within the state.

Where to Retire in Idaho

  • Coeur d'Alene
  • Sandpoint
  • Boise

Fun Fact: Idaho’s State Capitol building is one of a kind: it’s heated naturally, by utilizing the geothermal energy that is produced from underground hot springs.

10 Best States to Retire in 2022 – Where Will You Retire?

There are many incredible places throughout the United States where you can retire. Whether you are interested in experiencing the great outdoors or the hustle and bustle of city life, you’ll be able to find a state that fits your desired lifestyle and provides all of the opportunities you are looking for.

Ready to continue your search? Check out the 22 Best Places to Retire in 2022.

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