Florida might seem like the obvious choice, but a new study has found there’s a better state for retirees in 2025 — one that combines affordability, safety, and peace of mind. For those planning their next chapter after work, this destination stands out for its low living costs, favorable taxes, and relaxed pace of life, offering the ideal balance between comfort and financial stability.
A recent report by financial services firm Bankrate analyzed all 50 states to determine where retirees can enjoy the best mix of financial security, healthcare access, and lifestyle satisfaction. The results might surprise those who assumed the Sunshine State would dominate the list.
Which state outshines Florida for retirees in 2025?
According to Bankrate’s 2025 ranking, Wyoming emerges as one of the top destinations for retirees — and the 4th most affordable state in the country. While Florida often attracts attention for its warm weather and lack of income tax, Wyoming stands out for offering lower living costs, favorable tax conditions, and a strong sense of safety and community.
The study highlights Wyoming’s number-one score for taxes, which helps retirees keep more of their income and savings intact. It also ranked 4th in affordability, meaning residents enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without the financial strain seen in many coastal or high-demand regions. However, the report notes one weakness: Wyoming’s healthcare ranking sits at 39th, a factor to consider for those prioritizing medical access.
Despite that, the state’s appeal lies in its balance of affordability and tranquility — two qualities many retirees now value over year-round heat or crowded coastal areas. The open spaces, slower pace of life, and low population density create an environment where peace of mind comes naturally.
How other states performed in the rankings
Bankrate’s study placed New Hampshire at the top of the list overall, thanks to its leading scores in safety (1st) and health care (5th), along with reasonable taxes and a high concentration of older adults. Maine followed closely, performing strongly in safety (2nd) and arts (4th) but ranking low for weather — a common theme across New England states.
Vermont impressed with first-place rankings in both arts and health care, making it appealing for retirees who value culture and top-tier medical services. However, affordability (12th) and cold winters (43rd in weather) bring it down slightly. Meanwhile, Idaho rounded out the top five, praised for its safety (3rd) and cost of living (9th), even if it scored low in arts and senior population.
At the opposite end, Louisiana landed in last place due to poor scores in affordability (43rd), safety (48th), and health care (37th). Texas followed as the second-worst, dragged down by high costs and weak health care infrastructure despite favorable taxes. States like Oklahoma, Arkansas, and Nebraska also fell near the bottom, largely due to limited safety and rising insurance costs.
What made the study different
Unlike traditional “best places to retire” lists, this year’s Bankrate methodology gave the most weight to what retirees actually value. Affordability accounted for 28% of the total score, followed by weather (18%), safety (17%), and health care (16%). Other factors — such as local taxes, cultural opportunities, and the presence of peers in a similar age group — played smaller but still relevant roles.
The findings show a clear trend: retirees today are prioritizing financial comfort, safety, and access to essential services over purely climate-based preferences. With that in mind, Wyoming’s mix of affordability, low taxes, and peaceful living makes it a standout choice for those planning their next chapter in 2025.