Retirement Social Security

15 States Where Social Security Benefits Go the Furthest

Living in the right location can help you stretch Social Security checks.

By Sarah Sharkey

Edited by Chris Kissell

Updated Jan. 22, 2025

Retiring to a new state can mark the start of the next phase of your life. If you are planning to lean on Social Security checks, choosing the right location can make all the difference to your financial situation regardless of your retirement age.

Becker Hospital Review sorted through GOBankingRates data to compile a list of the places where Social Security benefits will take you furthest.

Based on that data, the following states could be attractive options for retirees who want to stretch their Social Security checks. All amounts are rounded to the nearest whole dollar. Cost of living figures are from RentCafe.

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15. West Virginia

Leftover monthly costs after Social Security benefits are spent: $1,263

If you want to drive down a country road to your home in West Virginia, you will be happy to learn that this state is the place where Social Security benefits stretch the furthest.

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14. Oklahoma

Leftover monthly costs after Social Security benefits are spent: $1,360

Oklahoma residents can enjoy an affordable retirement. With the cost of living well below the national average, the state is a worthwhile option to consider.

13. Mississippi

Leftover monthly costs after Social Security benefits are spent: $1,388

If you want to make Mississippi your new home, you should enjoy an excellent cost of living. The state is among the most affordable in the U.S.

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12. Kentucky

Leftover monthly costs after Social Security benefits are spent: $1,432

Within Kentucky, you will find several picturesque towns to consider settling down in for your golden years. And horse-racing fans can enjoy the legendary Kentucky Derby.

11. Kansas

Leftover monthly costs after Social Security benefits are spent: $1,450

Kansas offers a cost of living that’s around 13% lower than the national average. That makes it an affordable option for retirees on a budget.

10. Iowa

Leftover monthly costs after Social Security benefits are spent: $1,463

Affordable housing options abound in Iowa. Overall, Iowa’s cost of living is about 5% lower than the national average.

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9. South Dakota

Leftover monthly costs after Social Security benefits are spent: $1,473

South Dakota boasts multiple national parks and national monuments. Plus, it offers a cost of living around 7% lower than the national average.

8. Arkansas

Leftover monthly costs after Social Security benefits are spent: $1,482

Arkansas boasts expansive natural beauty and a low cost of living. The Mississippi River runs through Fort Smith, Little Rock and Pine Bluff.

7. Wyoming

Leftover monthly costs after Social Security benefits are spent: $1,522

Wyoming offers residents bountiful opportunities to connect with nature, including at Yellowstone or Grand Teton national parks. In addition to wonderful views, the cost of living in the state is 7% less than the national average.

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6. Missouri

Leftover monthly costs after Social Security benefits are spent: $1,533

Missouri offers both city living and countryside opportunities for potential residents. Two iconic U.S. cities — Kansas City and St. Louis — are located here.

5. Alabama

Leftover monthly costs after Social Security benefits are spent: $1,543

Living in the heart of Dixie comes with a cost of living that’s 11% below the national average. That bodes well for Alabama retirees

4. Michigan

Leftover monthly costs after Social Security benefits are spent: $1,583

The cost of living in Michigan is around 4% less than the national average.The state is a blend of urban excitement and beautiful natural areas.

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3. Louisiana

Leftover monthly costs after Social Security benefits are spent: $1,589

Louisiana residents can enjoy more than just good food. It’s also relatively affordable to reside in this lively state, with the cost of living around 9% less than the national average.

2. Indiana

Leftover monthly costs after Social Security benefits are spent: $1,617

Indiana residents enjoy a cost of living that’s around 8% lower than the national average. Indianapolis is a major city for retirees seeking excitement.

1. Ohio

Leftover monthly costs after Social Security benefits are spent: $1,632

Ohio residents enjoy a cost of living that’s 8% less than the national average. The state is also home to three major cities — Cincinnati, Cleveland, and Columbus.

Bottom line

Choosing the right state to call home during your golden years can help you make the most of your Social Security benefits.

But even if you opt for a lower cost of living, you still might need to find other income streams to cover retirement costs. Finding the right part-time job or side hustle can help you supplement your Social Security.

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