A large proportion of retirees truly depend on a fixed income. It is not necessarily a negative thing if the living cost is modest, but a high living cost may be very constraining for a retiree on a fixed income. Disparities in living costs between states are so evident that it may be prudent for a retiree to think about moving.
So, if you are a retiree who is struggling financially and are open to moving, the following are the best state to retire on a fixed income:
North Dakota
North Dakota retirees benefit from low health care expenses and a cost of living that is somewhat higher than the national average. Income taxes in the states are generally low. Additionally, the state’s typical house price is a little over $200,000 which makes it an incredibly reasonable option for retirees.
The state capital, Bismarck, has an exceptionally low unemployment rate and a bustling downtown. It has a solid local economy and seniors who opt to make it their post-retirement home will enjoy a plethora of advantages and facilities, making North Dakota the best state to retire on a fixed income.
New Hampshire
Due to its geographic position and topography, New Hampshire has a lot to offer. Its mountains are breathtakingly gorgeous — particularly in the autumn foliage — and there are many possibilities for skiing and hiking. Its cost of living is just 18% more than the national average which is one of the Northeast’s lowest.
This retirement-friendly state is less than an hour from Boston, making it convenient to see a Red Sox game or enjoy some clam chowder. For seniors who like the New England way of life, New Hampshire provides an inexpensive way of life owing to the state’s low tax load.
Idaho
The cost of living in the Potato State is 5% lower than the national average, which is quite retiree-friendly. Its annual average income is slightly more than $40,000.
Seniors may simply maintain their fitness levels by visiting one of Idaho’s 30 state parks. This also includes Yellowstone which is one of the country’s most visited national parks. Additionally, health care expenses are very cheap in Idaho. Also, the cost of housing is lower than the national average.
Most of this state is rural, however, Boise is one of the Northwest’s biggest metropolitan areas, behind only Seattle and Portland. It has a Parisian vibe, with an abundance of cafés and eateries along the street.
Hawaii
Hawaii has America’s finest tropical climate. Its landscape and beaches are just breathtaking. Additionally, its sunsets are spectacular.
The state is a paradise for retirees owing to its lowest average cost of medical care, lower than any state in the US.
Retirees have a plethora of leisure activities to choose from, including every kind of water sport possible. Hawaii’s geographical layout enables island hopping and enjoyment of the state’s natural splendor, which includes volcanoes, waterfalls, and hiking trails. Without any doubt, it is the best state to retire on a fixed income.
Georgia
Georgia’s median household income is less than $30,000. Additionally, its cost of living is 7% lower than the national average. With those two figures in mind, it’s simple to understand why it is retiree-friendly. Additionally, housing and healthcare are very cheap for seniors living on a limited income.
Georgia is more than just affordable housing. Indeed, its recreational possibilities are many, owing to its varied terrain, which spans from mountains to beaches.
Florida
Though Florida’s cost of living is comparable to the national average, the state is tax-friendly due to the absence of a state income tax.
In terms of lifestyle, Florida is unmatched. It has a long coastline with gorgeous white-sand beaches, an ideal temperature for seniors, and an abundance of seafood. As a result, Florida has one of the largest senior populations in the country, at more than 17%.
Numerous entertainment choices vary from Orlando’s amusement parks to Tallahassee’s southern charm. The state is home to some of the best elderly communities in the country. For example, the towns of central Florida have a populace of over 100,000 and are home to 50 golf courses.
Alabama
Alabama is a state that is very senior-friendly. It has the ninth-lowest average cost of living in the 50 states, at 13% less than the national average. The typical household income is $24,000, which implies that $50,000 in retirement income will be comfortable living. Housing and medical care are two of Alabama’s best offerings to retirees. It is worth noting, however, that Alabama charges a state tax with a five percent limit.
Alabama has many recreational opportunities, including a coastline of 60 miles. It has a moderate climate, with winter daytime temperatures average in the 60s. The state is also renowned for having some of the best water and air in the country.
It has an average senior population of more than 19%, reaching almost a 30% populace at Orange Beach. Cullman has the most doctors’ offices, which is 5.5, for 1,000 inhabitants.
Takeaway
In terms of the healthcare costs, retiree benefits, and cost of living, certain states of the U.S are more retirement-friendly as compared to others. If you retire on a fixed income, it is your responsibility to research the states mentioned above to determine if one of them is a good fit for you.
