Summary
A report by WalletHub ranks the best U.S. states for retirement in 2026. It looks at factors like cost of living, taxes, and quality of life to help retirees stretch their savings. Wyoming, Florida, and South Dakota are highlighted as the top three states for retirees.
Key Facts
- WalletHub analyzed the 50 states based on affordability, quality of life, and health care for retirees.
- Wyoming ranked first due to its low cost of living, no estate or inheritance tax, and low crime rate.
- Florida came in second with no estate, inheritance, or income tax and high funding for senior programs.
- South Dakota, ranking third, has no estate or inheritance taxes and low senior poverty and hunger rates.
- The report considers factors like taxes, living costs, healthcare, and community support services.
- Wyoming, Florida, and South Dakota offer favorable conditions for retirees, such as low taxes and good healthcare access.
- The study uses 46 metrics to score states on a 100-point scale for retiree-friendly rankings.
- WalletHub releases this "Best and Worst States to Retire" report every year.
