Smart Moves for Your Golden Years: The 14 Best States for Affordable Retirement Living and Low Taxes

As the twilight years approach, many Americans dream of a serene, comfortable retirement where their hard-earned savings can truly stretch. While picturesque landscapes, inviting communities, and excellent healthcare often top the list of considerations for those planning to relocate in their golden years, a crucial, often underestimated factor can significantly impact a retiree’s financial well-being: state and local taxes. These levies, often paid gradually or through various streams, can dramatically affect your fixed income, making the difference between a comfortable retirement and one fraught with unexpected financial burdens.

Understanding the intricate web of state income taxes, property taxes, sales taxes, and estate or inheritance taxes is paramount for seniors seeking to maximize their retirement nest egg. The disparities across the United States are vast; a move from one state to another could translate into thousands of dollars in annual savings or additional expenses. For instance, Social Security benefits, retirement account withdrawals, and pension incomes are treated very differently from state to state, with some states offering complete exemptions while others impose significant taxes.

To help retirees navigate this complex landscape and make informed decisions about where to spend their post-career years, we have meticulously analyzed various tax environments. This in-depth guide highlights 14 states that offer favorable tax policies, allowing retirees to keep more of their money and enjoy a more affordable lifestyle. We’ll delve into each state’s specific tax advantages, offering practical insights for those ready to embark on their next chapter. Let’s begin our journey through the first seven states that stand out for their exceptional tax friendliness.

1. **Mississippi**Mississippi proudly earns its spot as the most tax-friendly U.S. state for retirees, primarily due to its exceptionally low property taxes. Homeowners in the Magnolia State typically face a median tax bill of just $1,189, according to recent data. This figure positions Mississippi with the lowest property taxes among states that do not tax traditional retirement income, providing a significant financial advantage, especially for seniors on a fixed income who own their homes outright.

Beyond the attractive property tax rates, Mississippi extends its tax friendliness by not taxing traditional retirement income. This means that withdrawals from 401(k)s, IRAs, and other retirement accounts remain entirely untouched by state income taxes, allowing retirees to retain the full value of their savings. This is a critical factor for many seniors who rely heavily on these distributions to cover their daily expenses and leisure activities, ensuring their nest egg lasts longer.

Furthermore, Mississippi adheres to the trend of many other states on this list by not imposing estate or inheritance taxes. This particular benefit ensures that the wealth accumulated over a lifetime can be passed on to loved ones without being diminished by state-level death taxes, offering peace of mind for estate planning. While Mississippi offers numerous tax benefits, it’s worth noting that the state does tax groceries at a 5% rate, which is a higher rate than most other states with a grocery tax, making it a key consideration for daily budgeting and overall cost of living.

2. **Tennessee**Tennessee stands out as the second most tax-friendly state for retirees, making it an incredibly appealing destination for those seeking an affordable retirement. A significant draw is the complete absence of a state income tax, meaning that not only will Social Security benefits and pensions be untaxed, but any other forms of income, such as from part-time work or investments, will also be spared from state income levies. This translates into substantial savings for a broad spectrum of retirees, allowing their income to go further.

The Volunteer State also boasts one of the lowest median property tax bills in the country, averaging around $1,400. This makes homeownership particularly attractive and affordable for seniors, as it significantly reduces ongoing housing expenses. The low property tax rates contribute significantly to Tennessee being considered one of the most retirement-friendly states for homeowners, solidifying a robust financial foundation for retirement living.

In terms of wealth transfer, Tennessee continues its retiree-friendly approach by having no estate or inheritance taxes, providing an advantage for those planning their legacy. This ensures that assets can be passed down to heirs without the burden of state-imposed ‘death taxes.’ However, prospective residents should be aware of Tennessee’s higher sales tax rates, which can reach a combined average of 9.56% (7% state and up to 2.75% local), making it the second-highest rate behind only Louisiana. Groceries are also taxed, albeit at a reduced rate of 4%, which is an important factor to consider depending on spending and consumption levels.

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3. **Wyoming**Wyoming firmly secures its position as an exceptional retirement destination, widely considered one of the most tax-appealing states for seniors. The Equality State boasts a comprehensive lack of state income tax on any source of income, a monumental advantage for retirees. This means that Social Security, pensions, and all retirement account withdrawals, as well as any other earnings, remain entirely free from state taxation, providing immense financial flexibility and maximizing disposable income for seniors.

Further enhancing its appeal, Wyoming also foregoes estate or inheritance taxes, safeguarding the transfer of wealth to future generations without state interference. This policy aligns with a common desire among retirees to preserve their estate value for their loved ones, offering significant benefits for long-term financial planning and legacy building, ensuring heirs won’t inherit a state tax bill.

Property taxes in Wyoming are among the lowest in the U.S., with a median property tax bill of approximately $1,659. The state also boasts one of the lowest effective property tax rates, further contributing to its affordability for homeowners. Moreover, the Cowboy State features one of the lowest sales taxes in the country, with a state sales tax rate of just 4%, and a combined average state and local rate of 5.56%. This comprehensive low-tax structure makes Wyoming one of the most tax-friendly states for retirement, though electric vehicle owners should note an annual ‘decal fee’ of $200.

4. **Nevada**Nevada, often associated with its vibrant entertainment scene, offers much more than just casinos and shows for retirees; it provides a remarkably tax-friendly environment. A key advantage is the complete absence of a state income tax, which means all forms of income—including retirement benefits, pensions, and any earnings from continued work—are shielded from state taxation. This allows retirees to enjoy their full income without state-level deductions, making it a state plenty of people love to retire to.

The median property tax bill in Nevada is notably lower than in many other states, coming in at around $1,970. Coupled with an average effective tax rate of 0.49%, even homeowners with high property valuations can anticipate relatively low property tax burdens. This makes homeownership in Nevada an attractive proposition for seniors looking to manage their housing costs effectively, making it one of the states with the lowest property taxes in the country.

Another significant benefit for retirees in Nevada is the absence of estate or inheritance taxes. This policy ensures that the assets accumulated throughout a lifetime can be passed on to family members or beneficiaries without being subjected to state death taxes, providing considerable peace of mind for estate planning. While Nevada’s combined state and local sales tax rate is on the higher side, averaging 8.24%, it is crucial to remember that groceries and prescription medications are exempt from this tax, significantly mitigating its impact on essential spending for retirees.

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5. **Florida**Florida, widely recognized as a premier retirement destination, draws seniors for its warm climate and abundant recreational opportunities, but its tax-friendly policies are equally compelling. The Sunshine State imposes no state income tax, which is a major financial advantage for retirees. This means Social Security benefits, pension income, and withdrawals from retirement accounts like 401(k)s and IRAs are entirely exempt from state taxes, allowing retirees to preserve their income streams and enjoy their dividends without the state taking a cut.

The state also provides significant property tax relief through its homestead exemption, which can protect a portion of a home’s value from taxation, making median property taxes of approximately $2,555 even more manageable for eligible Floridians. In fact, some Floridians are eligible for a homestead exemption up to the entire taxable value of their property, further reducing their tax burden. While home prices have seen an increase in recent years, the combination of no income tax and property tax benefits helps balance the cost of living for many seniors.

Furthermore, Florida has no estate or inheritance taxes, ensuring that assets can be transferred to heirs without state-imposed deductions. This is a crucial factor for long-term financial planning and legacy considerations, ensuring loved ones won’t need to share a chunk of their inheritance with the state. Florida was also ranked the best state to retire in by WalletHub in 2025, due to its tax-friendly policies, recreational opportunities and government-funded programs for seniors, reinforcing its appeal despite potential local cost of living increases.

6. **South Dakota**South Dakota, often celebrated for its majestic Mount Rushmore, also presents a highly appealing tax environment for retirees. A cornerstone of its tax friendliness is the complete absence of a state income tax. This benefit extends to all forms of income, including Social Security, pensions, and retirement account distributions, allowing seniors to retain more of their hard-earned money without state-level taxation. This is especially beneficial for those with non-traditional forms of retirement income, such as from investments.

The Mount Rushmore State also boasts the absence of inheritance or estate taxes, providing reassurance for retirees concerned with the transfer of their wealth to beneficiaries. This policy ensures that their legacy remains intact, free from state-imposed ‘death taxes,’ simplifying estate planning for families and ensuring family members are not left with a tax bill. This makes it a good choice for retirees looking to protect their heirs.

Regarding property taxes, South Dakota offers a nuanced picture. While relatively low property values often translate into lower median property tax bills (around $2,590), the effective property tax rate of 1.09% is on the higher end, which is a consideration if you’re likely to own a high-value property. The state’s combined average state and local sales tax rate is relatively low at 6.4%, although it’s important to note that South Dakota is one of the states that still taxes groceries. The state recently reduced its grocery tax rate by 0.3%, from 4.5% to 4.2%, but this ‘grocery tax holiday’ is set to expire on June 30, 2027, which is a key budgetary point for retirees.

7. **Iowa**Iowa has significantly improved its standing as a tax-friendly state for retirees, particularly with its recent legislative changes. The state now imposes no state tax on traditional retirement benefits for individuals aged 55 or older, a substantial advantage for those drawing from IRAs and other retirement accounts. This exemption means that if you are 55 years of age or older by the end of the year, your IRA withdrawals are not taxed by the state, leading to considerable annual savings.

The state has also made strides in reducing its general income tax, lowering it to a flat rate of 3.8% from a previous high of 5.7%. While other types of income beyond retirement benefits are still taxed, this significant reduction makes Iowa more attractive for retirees who may still have other taxable income streams. These changes demonstrate a clear effort by the state to become more welcoming to its senior population, enhancing its overall affordability.

Property taxes in Iowa are also a compelling factor, with median property tax bills falling below $2,800. Between these slightly more reasonable property taxes and no state tax on traditional retirement benefits, Iowa could be an affordable place to live out your retirement. While the state sales tax is 6%, local taxes can increase this rate up to 8%, and an income surtax for schools can also apply based on the taxpayer’s state income tax liability. Despite these considerations, Iowa’s progressive tax policies for retirement income make it a strong contender for affordable retirement living, potentially saving a married couple with $100,000 in IRA withdrawals thousands annually compared to other states.

Continuing our exploration of states that offer substantial financial advantages for retirees, we delve into seven more locations where tax policies are designed to help your retirement savings go further. From states with no income tax to those offering unique exemptions on retirement income, these destinations present diverse opportunities for a more affordable and secure post-career life, allowing seniors to maximize their nest egg and enjoy their golden years with greater peace of mind. Let’s uncover the next set of states that shine in the realm of retiree tax friendliness.

8. **New Hampshire**The Granite State offers a compelling tax environment for retirees, primarily by allowing individuals to retain more of their income. New Hampshire imposes no state tax on regular income, Social Security benefits, or pensions, which is a significant relief for those relying on these traditional retirement income streams. This policy ensures that a substantial portion of a retiree’s financial resources remains untouched by state-level income levies, providing greater financial flexibility.

However, it’s important to note a nuance regarding investment income: New Hampshire does tax interest and dividend income that exceeds $2,400 per person. This particular tax, however, is being progressively phased out, dropping from 4% in 2023 to 3% in 2024, with a complete repeal anticipated in 2025. This forward-looking change will further enhance the state’s appeal to retirees with investment portfolios, eventually eliminating a long-standing tax consideration.

Further solidifying its tax-friendly status, New Hampshire also boasts the absence of both state sales tax and estate or inheritance taxes. The lack of a sales tax means daily purchases, excluding specific excises, are generally more affordable, while the absence of death taxes simplifies estate planning and ensures wealth can be passed on to heirs without state intervention. The primary financial consideration for prospective residents remains the property tax burden, as New Hampshire is known for having some of the highest median property taxes and property tax rates in the U.S., a factor often balancing its other tax benefits.

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9. **Texas**The Lone Star State is rapidly gaining recognition as an increasingly tax-friendly destination for retirees, making it an attractive option for those seeking to maximize their financial longevity. A significant draw is the complete absence of a state income tax, meaning that all forms of income—including Social Security benefits, retirement account withdrawals, and any other earnings—are entirely exempt from state taxation. This allows retirees to enjoy their full income without state-level deductions, a considerable advantage in retirement planning.

In addition to its income tax policy, Texas further enhances its appeal by not imposing estate or inheritance taxes. This critical benefit provides peace of mind for seniors focused on legacy planning, ensuring that the wealth they have accumulated over a lifetime can be transferred to their loved ones without being diminished by state-imposed death taxes. This aligns with the financial goals of many retirees who prioritize preserving their estate value for future generations.

While Texas presents numerous tax advantages, a primary consideration for retirees has traditionally been the higher local property taxes, with a median tax bill of $4,111. However, this aspect is set for significant improvement, as an amendment to the Texas Constitution was approved by voters in November 2023, specifically designed to reduce property taxes for homeowners. This legislative change could alleviate one of the main financial burdens for retirees owning property, though it’s worth noting that the state’s combined average state and local sales tax rate of 8.2% remains on the higher side, a factor to weigh against other benefits.

10. **Alaska**Alaska, often envisioned for its majestic natural beauty, also presents a remarkably tax-favorable environment for retirees, particularly due to its overarching tax structure. A cornerstone of its appeal is the complete absence of a state income tax, a benefit that extends to all forms of income. This means Social Security, pension income, and withdrawals from retirement accounts like 401(k)s and IRAs are entirely exempt from state taxes, allowing seniors to retain more of their hard-earned money and significantly boost their disposable income.

Beyond the absence of income tax, Alaska provides a unique financial incentive: the Alaska Permanent Fund Dividend. This annual payment, distributed to qualifying residents, effectively means Alaskans can get paid for simply living in the state, adding an extra layer of financial benefit for retirees. For the 2024 tax year, this dividend amounted to $1,702, offering a tangible boost to a retiree’s annual finances and contributing to the state’s overall affordability appeal.

In terms of wealth transfer, Alaska reinforces its retiree-friendly stance by having no estate or inheritance taxes, ensuring that assets can be passed on to heirs without state-imposed deductions. While the median property tax bill in Alaska, at $3,785, is relatively high compared to many other states, it’s tempered by the lack of a statewide sales tax. However, local sales taxes can reach up to 7.85%, and some localities may also levy sales tax on groceries, which are important considerations for daily budgeting.

11. **Pennsylvania**Pennsylvania stands out as a tax-friendly state for retirees, primarily due to its advantageous policies concerning retirement income. A significant benefit is that the Commonwealth does not tax retirement benefits, including withdrawals from IRAs. This means that a substantial portion of a retiree’s income stream is shielded from state taxation, providing considerable annual savings and making the state an attractive option for those drawing on retirement accounts.

Even for retirees who may still have other taxable income, such as from part-time work or investments, Pennsylvania offers a relatively favorable income tax structure. The state maintains a flat tax rate of 3.07% on taxable income, which is notably lower than the rates imposed by many other states that do levy an income tax. This uniform and lower rate can benefit a broader range of retirees, ensuring that any supplemental earnings are taxed at a more manageable level.

Regarding property taxes, the median bill in Pennsylvania exceeds $3,200. While this figure is higher than in some states, it remains lower than in certain other states that also do not tax retirement income, making it a competitive option for homeowners. Furthermore, some residents may qualify for Pennsylvania rebates for property taxes paid, though specific limitations apply. A key consideration for estate planning, however, is Pennsylvania’s imposition of “death taxes,” which means heirs could face a significant tax bill on inherited assets, a factor retirees should weigh when planning their legacy.

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12. **Washington**Washington State presents a particularly appealing financial landscape for retirees, anchored by one of the most significant tax advantages: the complete absence of a state income tax. For seniors, this translates directly into keeping more of their hard-earned money from all income sources, including Social Security benefits, pensions, and withdrawals from retirement accounts like 401(k)s and IRAs. This fundamental policy ensures that income streams are not diminished by state-level taxation, offering substantial financial relief.

This lack of state income tax makes Washington a prime candidate for retirees prioritizing the preservation of their income and investment gains. Without the burden of state income taxes, individuals have greater control over their retirement funds, allowing for more flexible budgeting and increased financial security. It’s a compelling factor for anyone considering where to stretch their retirement dollars further.

While the absence of income tax is a major draw, prospective retirees should be mindful of other potential tax considerations in Washington, such as sales and property taxes, which are common ways states without income tax recover revenue. However, for those whose primary concern is minimizing taxes on their retirement income, Washington offers an undeniable and significant benefit that places it high on the list of tax-friendly states.

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13. **Illinois**Illinois offers a compelling advantage for retirees seeking to protect their retirement savings from state taxation, primarily through its specific exemptions for retirement income. The state explicitly does not tax income from IRAs, alongside other traditional retirement benefits. This policy is a crucial benefit for seniors who rely heavily on distributions from these accounts to fund their retirement, ensuring that these funds are not eroded by state income levies.

This exemption from IRA taxation means that retirees can enjoy the full value of their retirement account withdrawals, which can translate into substantial annual savings compared to states that do tax such income. For individuals with considerable savings in these vehicles, this policy alone can make Illinois a very attractive and financially sound retirement destination, directly impacting their quality of life.

While this particular benefit is a strong draw, retirees should also consider other aspects of Illinois’s tax structure, such as property and sales taxes, when evaluating the overall affordability. However, the definitive policy of not taxing IRA income places Illinois among a select group of states that are notably retirement-friendly in this crucial financial aspect, helping retirees maintain a robust financial standing throughout their golden years.

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14. **New Jersey**New Jersey, despite its reputation for a higher cost of living, offers surprisingly favorable tax treatment for retirees regarding specific income streams, making it a state worth considering for those looking to manage their retirement finances strategically. Crucially, it stands out as one of the most favorable states for those that do tax IRA withdrawals, providing significant exemptions that are fully applied in financial analyses. For example, a single filer taking $100,000 in IRA withdrawals could see a state and federal effective tax rate of 13.93%, while married filers might pay nearly half that at 7.91%, highlighting a substantial advantage for couples.

This favorable treatment of IRA withdrawals is a key benefit, especially for retirees with substantial retirement account balances. While other states may fully tax such distributions, New Jersey’s policies work to significantly reduce the state’s bite out of these essential income sources, providing greater financial security for seniors. The state’s approach to these exemptions can translate into thousands of dollars in annual savings, effectively allowing retirement nest eggs to last longer.

However, it’s important for prospective retirees to balance these income tax benefits against other financial considerations in New Jersey. The state is known for its relatively high property taxes, with homeowners typically spending around $9,345 annually, according to recent data. New Jersey also features generally high sales taxes. Therefore, while its treatment of IRA withdrawals is highly beneficial, a comprehensive assessment of all tax burdens is essential for an informed retirement planning decision, ensuring a clear picture of the overall cost of living.

Navigating the complex landscape of state and local taxes is an indispensable step for anyone planning for retirement. As we’ve seen, the differences in how states treat Social Security, pensions, retirement account withdrawals, property, sales, and estate taxes can dramatically impact a retiree’s financial well-being. From states offering comprehensive exemptions to those with specific advantages for particular income streams, the choice of where to retire extends far beyond climate and amenities—it’s a strategic financial decision. By carefully considering these tax implications, retirees can make informed choices that ensure their hard-earned savings provide the comfortable and secure golden years they envision. Consulting with a financial advisor remains a prudent step to tailor these insights to individual financial situations and achieve long-term retirement goals.