Top 7 Best states to retire in the US with the Best quality of life – 2024

• Population: 5,108,468
• Median 1-bed apt rent: $1,389
• Median property buying cost: $259,539

Alabama combines Southern charm with modern amenities, offering scenic coastlines, sandy beaches, and year-round pleasant weather. Many retirees, seeking an active lifestyle, enjoy hiking in its mountainous areas like Cheaha and Oak Mountain State Park and kayaking and fishing in the state’s rivers. Its vibrant cities like Montgomery and Birmingham coexist with charming small towns, for those who prefer a slower-paced Southern lifestyle.

With a population of 5,108,468, approximately 18% is composed of seniors. Alabama has one of the lowest cost-of-living indices and the second-lowest housing costs in the U.S. As of December 2023, the median property price is $259,539, and a 1-bed apartment rents for around $1,389.

Census.gov (Dec 2023), Local Logic (Dec 2023), Rocket Homes (Dec 2023) & Zillow (Dec 2023)

• Population: 584,057
• Median 1-bed apt rent: $995.00
• Median property buying cost: $274,822

Wyoming is one of the largest states with the lowest population density, housing 584,057 residents, including 18.6% seniors. Located among the landscapes of the Rocky Mountains, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking, biking, and rock climbing in its national parks: Yellowstone and Grand Teton.

The state provides a small-town life with a slower pace, ideal for retiring in a close-knit community. However, it’s important to note that grocery stores are limited compared to larger cities. Additionally, it is considered a favorable place for retirement due to its lack of income tax and low cost of living. As of December 2023, Wyoming has a median property price of $274,822, and a 1-bedroom apartment rents for $995.00.

Wyo.gov (Jan 2024), Census.gov (Dec 2023), Local Logic (Dec 2023), Rocket Homes (Dec 2023) & Zillow (Dec 2023)

• Population: 783,926
• Median 1-bed apt rent: $1,300
• Median property buying cost: $290,206

North Dakota stands out as an ideal retirement destination, known for its low tax burden, including one of the lowest income tax rates and property taxes. This contributes to an affordable cost of living and an attractive housing market for prospective homebuyers, with a median home price of about $290,206 and a 1-bedroom apartment renting for around $1,300 as of December 2023.

It is renowned for its friendly community and genuine welcome to newcomers. Residents claim to enjoy a high quality of life with abundant outdoor recreation in its 4 national parks, such as Theodore Roosevelt National Park, and 13 state parks. Additionally, amenities such as shopping, dining, and nightlife are easily accessible. Notably, it has one of the shortest commute times in the country, with an average of 17 minutes.

Census.gov (Dec 2023), Local Logic (Dec 2023), Rocket Homes (Dec 2023) & Zillow (Dec 2023)

• Population: 1,031,890
• Median 1-bed apt rent: $1,930
• Median property buying cost: $349,991

Delaware, despite its size, is a coastal gem that attracts retirees with its stunning shoreline, low tax burden, affordable living, excellent healthcare, and varied recreational options. The state has a nationally ranked healthcare system, providing easy access to medical services in each county and surpassing the national average in resident health insurance coverage.

With over a million residents, 20.80% of whom are seniors, Delaware offers a beach lifestyle and access to 16 state parks with over 150 miles of trails for outdoor enthusiasts. In terms of housing, Delaware has one of the lowest property tax rates, with a median property price of around $349,991 and a 1-bedroom apartment rental cost of approximately $1,930 as of December 2023. Moreover, there is no sales tax!

Dhss.gov (Jan 2024), Census.gov (Dec 2023), Local Logic (Dec 2023), Rocket Homes (Dec 2023) & Zillow (Dec 2023)

• Population: 22,610,726
• Median 1-bed apt rent: $1,812
• Median property buying cost: $361,918

Retiring in Florida presents an appealing option due to its lower cost of living, with a median property price of $361,918 and a $1,812 average for 1-bedroom apartment rentals as of December 2023. With a population exceeding 22 million, including 21.60% seniors, it fosters diverse retirement communities like The Villages, offering amenities like golf courses, restaurants, shops, and nearby medical services. 

Seniors in Florida enjoy a variety of recreational activities, including beaches, parks, cultural attractions, and music events, improving their quality of life. Retiring in the Sunshine State brings significant tax advantages, as it is one of the most tax-friendly states with no state income tax, tax-free Social Security benefits, pensions, and other retirement income. Moreover, Florida does not impose estate or inheritance taxes.

Census.gov (Dec 2023), Local Logic (Dec 2023), Rocket Homes (Dec 2023) & Zillow (Dec 2023)

• Population: 8,715,698
• Median 1-bed apt rent: $1,898
• Median property buying cost: $385,038

Virginia is an ideal state for retirees with diverse lifestyle preferences, offering scenic shorelines, mountains, and proximity to major cities like Washington, all within a 3-hour drive. Its mild climate enhances the coastal lifestyle, providing beautiful beaches such as Cape Charles and Virginia Beach for waterside walks. Residents relish local seafood cuisine, including oysters, blue crabs, and rockfish, and many retirement communities are located near family-friendly attractions, all contributing to a relaxed pace of living.

It offers an affordable living costs with tax advantages. State income taxes exempt Social Security benefits and retirement income, while seniors benefit from deductibility of up to $12,000 for pension and retirement account withdrawals. Low sales and property tax rates add to the financial appeal, with a median property price of $385,038 and a 1-bed apartment renting around $1,898 as of December 2023.

Census.gov (Dec 2023), Local Logic (Dec 2023), Rocket Homes (Dec 2023) & Zillow (Dec 2023)

• Population: 1,402,054
• Median 1-bed apt rent: $2,250
• Median property buying cost: $398,886

New Hampshire is renowned for its natural beauty, offering opportunities for winter sports and hiking in locations such as the White Mountain National Forest and Mount Washington. Residents also enjoy water activities in Lake Winnipesaukee and along the sandy beaches on the Atlantic Ocean coast. With a population of over 1.4 million people, 20.20% are seniors who can relish living in a quiet and picturesque environment that provides numerous opportunities for outdoor activities, including hiking, skiing, and fishing.

New Hampshire has one of the lowest crime rates in the United States, with 239.18 crimes per 100,000 people, making it a secure place for retirees to live. Moreover, there is no state sales tax or income tax on wages, adding to its appeal. New Hampshire reported a median property price of $398,886, and a 1-bedroom apartment rents for around $2,250 as of December 2023.

Census.gov (Dec 2023), Local Logic (Dec 2023), Rocket Homes (Dec 2023) & Zillow (Dec 2023)