Top 10 States to Retire in 2024 (#8 Surprised Us)

Imagine a retirement where the sun kisses your face, and your dollars stretch farther than ever. That's a possibility with many retirement locations without having to leave the country. 

In the quest for the perfect retirement destination, WalletHub has released its 2024 rankings for the best states to retire, reaching a final score based on the factors of affordability, quality of life, and healthcare.

As you start making your retirement planning moves, here are the 10 best retirement spots in the U.S. for 2024 to help you make some of your decisions easier. 

Nestled in the embrace of sunshine and sandy beaches, Florida emerges as the unrivaled champion for retirees. 

With a total score of 62.19, it clinches the top spot, thanks to its affordability (ranked 4th), exceptional quality of life (ranked 1st), and commendable healthcare provisions (ranked 29th). 

Florida also boasts no estate, inheritance, or income taxes for retirees. Amidst the vast shoreline, retirees find solace, and with various recreational activities and low death rates for seniors, Florida becomes a retirement paradise.

For those seeking the crisp mountain air over coastal breezes, Colorado stands as the second-best state for retirees with a score of 61.00. 

Offering a haven for physical and mental well-being, Wallethub ranks Colorado high for its low social isolation rates among seniors and a meager percentage of seniors living in poverty. 

The taxpayer-friendly conditions, with no estate or inheritance taxes, contribute to its appeal. Surrounded by the majestic Rockies, Colorado becomes not just a scenic retreat but a sanctuary for retirees seeking a fulfilling lifestyle.

Virginia secures its position as the third-best state for retirement, offering seniors a haven of safety and quality healthcare. 

Notably, Virginia boasts some of the nation's top elder abuse protections, ensuring that seniors are physically safer and less susceptible to financial exploitation. The state takes pride in high-quality geriatrics hospitals, providing comprehensive healthcare options for retirees.

Virginia stands out by lacking an estate or inheritance tax, earning the title of the tenth most taxpayer-friendly state. Residents also enjoy many miles of scenic shoreline, a low violent crime rate, and commendable air quality.

Claiming the fourth-best spot for retirement, Delaware's appeal lies in its remarkably low overall tax burdens, including the absence of estate or inheritance taxes. 

With nearly 20% of its population being seniors, Delaware fosters a sense of community and connectivity, contributing to the second-lowest risk of social isolation among seniors. 

The state prioritizes the well-being of its older residents, reflected in the lowest poverty rate among people aged 65 and older.

Wyoming boasts robust protections against elder abuse, coupled with one of the lowest violent crime rates nationwide, fostering an environment of security for retirees. 

Wyoming's commitment to clean air further enhances its appeal, particularly for seniors with respiratory concerns. 

With favorable financial factors, including low tax burdens and the absence of estate or inheritance taxes, Wyoming emerges as a well-rounded choice for retirees seeking safety, community, and financial stability.

Sixth on the list, Idaho has emerged as a great place for senior living. With an affordability rank of 9, it is one of the more economical choices on the list.

Idaho doesn’t tax Social Security benefits and has low property and sales taxes. Along with its many national and state parks and outdoor opportunities, Idaho is a good climate for retirees looking for a change of pace.

One reason people flock to the state is New Hampshire does not have personal income taxes, state sales tax, or taxes on Social Security benefits. 

The state also offers property tax relief for seniors. New Hampshire offers a wide range of retirement options from coastal communities to mountainous settlements, making it an easy choice.

Minnesota is one of the healthiest states due to its robust healthcare system, which is something seniors are drawn to and rely on heavily in some cases. 

A reasonable cost of living plus beautiful scenery and climate make Minnesota 8th on the list. Living costs, like groceries and housing, tend to be cheaper in Minnesota than in other states.

Montana has surged in popularity recently due to its off-grid appeal and gorgeous landscape. 

The appeal extends to retirees as well, as Montana has a 19% lower cost of living and 40% lower housing prices compared to other states. 

Montana also caps income taxes at 6.65%, has no sales tax, and limits taxes on Social Security and pension payments.

Pennsylvania is cheaper to live in than its other East Coast counterparts. 

The state doesn’t tax Social Security, 401(k)s, pensions, or IRA for retirees over 60, and the cost of living is generally lower than its Tri-State neighbors. 

Pennsylvania is home to over 800,000 veterans, and as such has many military-friendly policies, like no taxes on military retirement.

In the quest for the perfect retirement haven, Florida and Colorado emerge as the front-runners, each offering a unique blend of affordability, quality of life, and healthcare. 

Whether it's the sun-drenched beaches of Florida or the refreshing mountain air of Colorado, these states beckon retirees with promises of financial security and an enriching retirement experience. 

As you plan your golden years, consider these top-ranking states to ensure that retirement is more than just trying to avoid living paycheck-to-paycheck and instead is a fulfilling and worry-free adventure.