Retirement Retired Life

Retirees Are Leaving Florida in Droves (And Going to These 16 States Instead)

Florida isn't the only option for those looking to kick back and stretch those Social Security checks in retirement.

By Chris Lewis, CEPF , Edited by Laura Hohenstein

Updated Oct. 6, 2026

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Florida has long been considered the state to be in to maximize your retirement savings, and though it's still popular, several other states have been vying for the title of retiree hot spot.

As such, many people are no longer considering Florida an option because of crowded and pricey adult communities, the risk of storm damage, extreme heat, and more.

Instead, other states are seeing an influx of retirees. If Florida isn't your cup of tea, consider these 16 states where retirees are now flocking to.

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Delaware

Delaware has recently been making many "best of" lists for retirees looking to make smart homeowner moves. While its coastline is much smaller than Florida's, it has plenty of delightful beaches as well, with Rehoboth Beach becoming a top Atlantic Coast vacation spot.

It's also a tax-friendly state for retirees, as Delaware has no state or local sales taxes and does not tax Social Security benefits.

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Arizona

Florida and Arizona both offer warm climates for retirees who are simply sick of the cold, but Arizona's desert environment creates a much drier heat.

Social Security in the state is not taxed, and while some pensions and 401(k) payments are, Arizona has a very low flat tax rate of just 2.5%.

Colorado

Colorado may not be drawing many retirees in with financial incentives — some residents have their Social Security, pensions, and 401(k) payments taxed — but the state has many other draws.

For example, in Colorado you can find lively cities alongside the stunning Rocky Mountain wonder, which may be enough to entice some retirees to make the move.

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Wisconsin

If you don't mind the long, frigid winters, Wisconsin is a solid retirement option — particularly dynamic cities like Milwaukee that provide easy access to Lake Michigan and plenty of outdoor recreation.

Also, the state doesn't tax Social Security payments.

Georgia

Many would-be Florida retirees are opting for nearby Georgia instead these days.

The state offers warm summers and mild winters, a beautiful coastline, lively and historic cities, and hefty income exclusions for retirees paying taxes.

West Virginia

For those who enjoy the great outdoors, West Virginia is a solid retirement option. Residents enjoy easy access to stunning mountains, valleys, and more.

As of 2026, the state no longer taxes Social Security, and some pensions are exempt from taxes, too.

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Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania has several perks for retirees: Residents experience four distinct seasons, it ranks high in access to health care, and the tax situation is hard to beat.

The state doesn't tax retirement accounts like 401(k)s and IRAs, and other types of income are taxed at a low flat rate of 3.07%.

New Hampshire

This New England state is a top option for retirees who enjoy the beach but want to enjoy all four seasons as well. New Hampshire has 13 miles of coastline, stunning mountains, and outdoor recreation options, and you won't pay tax on Social Security, pension, or 401(k) payments.

Wyoming

For its breathtaking natural beauty and its tax policies, many retirees are looking west towards Wyoming.

Residents enjoy easy access to several national parks and historic sites, including Yellowstone, and the state has no personal income taxes, so you won't pay on retirement income or other earnings.

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Minnesota

While Minnesota doesn't have the most favorable tax situation for retirees, it has many other draws.

Those who enjoy cold weather, and particularly those who enjoy winter sports, will find plenty to do in the state, and it's home to the Mayo Clinic, so health care is a big draw, too.

South Carolina

Many retirees who are turned off by the risk of storms or the popularity of Florida are relocating to South Carolina instead.

Social Security is not taxed in the state and pensions and 401(k) payments are partially taxable. Retirees can also enjoy hot summers and very mild winters.

Nevada

With its dry heat, attractions like Vegas, and favorable tax situation, many retirees are heading out to Nevada these days.

It also has no state income tax, so retirees looking to spend their golden years in the sun need not worry about any retirement income being taxed.

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South Dakota

Those looking for an ideal tax situation and four distinct seasons might consider South Dakota.

It may be a bit chilly and quiet in the winter, but South Dakotans enjoy no state income taxes, no estate or inheritance taxes, and no taxes on Social Security, pension, or 401(k) payments.

Missouri

Missouri is another affordable option for retirees. Even in big cities, like Kansas City, the median home sale price and average rents are low.

Social Security taxes were recently eliminated as well. However, potential Missourians should remember that the state is part of "Tornado Alley."

Mississippi

Mississippi is one of the states with the lowest cost of living in the country (second only to Arkansas).

For those considering the South for retirement, it also offers a favorable tax situation — retirement income is exempt, and the income tax rate is set to decrease to 3% by calendar year 2030.

Iowa

You can find tranquility and small-town vibes even in Iowa's capital, Des Moines, where the cost of living and housing prices are still significantly below the national average.

For residents 55 and older, retirement income is tax-exempt for retirees 55 and older, and there is no inheritance tax, making it a solid option for those looking to build wealth for their families.

Bottom line

For many years, Florida was touted as the state to be in to find community and avoid wasting money in retirement.

However, there are many states around the U.S. with similar tax incentives that are attracting retirees looking for something a bit different in their golden years, so it's important to weigh your options before figuring out where you'll spend your golden years.

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