Choosing the right state for retirees can make all the difference when it comes to quality of life, financial comfort, and overall well-being. A new study from Bankrate has ranked every U.S. state to determine which ones truly deliver the best conditions for life after 65 — and the results might surprise you.
While sunny destinations like California or Florida often come to mind, this year’s findings paint a different picture. The study evaluated all 50 states on factors that matter most to retirees, from safety and affordability to taxes, health care, and social engagement — highlighting one unexpected winner at the top of the list.
Which state is the best for retirees in 2025?
According to Bankrate’s 2025 report, New Hampshire ranks as the best state for retirees. The Granite State earned top marks for neighborhood safety, health care, and low taxes, creating a balanced environment for older adults seeking stability and quality of life.
Though New Hampshire’s cold winters placed it 40th in weather, it excelled in nearly every other category. It ranked first in safety, fifth in health care, sixth in local taxes, and seventh in senior population, making it one of the most well-rounded options for those looking to settle down after retirement. The combination of community security, strong medical access, and financial friendliness gives it a clear edge over more traditional retirement states.
Maine followed close behind, taking second place overall. It stood out for its high scores in safety (2nd), health care (3rd), and arts and culture (4th), though it too struggles with harsh weather, ranking 41st in that category.
Other top contenders for retirement living
Beyond New Hampshire and Maine, Wyoming, Vermont, and Idaho also secured spots in the top five. Wyoming’s strengths lie in its tax friendliness and affordability — ranking first in taxes and fourth in cost of living — though its health care system (39th) remains a weak point.
Vermont, meanwhile, shines in the cultural and wellness categories, taking first place in both arts and health care and ranking second in senior population, suggesting a strong sense of community. However, it fell short in affordability and weather. Idaho rounded out the top five, performing well in safety (3rd) and affordability (9th), with moderate taxes and a reputation for peaceful living.
Interestingly, the study found that New England dominated the top rankings, securing three of the five best spots for retirees. The region’s focus on safety, access to health care, and community well-being proved more decisive than climate or sunshine.
The least favorable states for retirees
At the opposite end, Louisiana was named the worst state for retirees, ranking last overall due to high crime rates, poor health care access, and low affordability. It also placed near the bottom in safety and weather, despite its warmer climate.
Texas came in 49th, performing well only in taxes (7th) but ranking poorly in affordability, weather, and especially health care, where it scored last. Other low-ranking states include Oklahoma, Arkansas, and Nebraska, each weighed down by weak health systems or costly living conditions.