15 Overlooked American States You Should Retire In

Retirement is the golden chapter of life when it’s our time to trade work schedules for travel plans and early alarms for sunny mornings on our porch. Deciding where to retire can be a bit like picking a dessert from a menu where everything looks good. Yes, Florida and Arizona will probably jump out at you, but the United States is a treasure chest of hidden gems that are as good, if not better, for retirees.

Often overlooked, these states offer affordability, a little charm, and loads of activities to make you feel young at heart. Looking to stroll through historic small towns, take in stunning scenery, or just get more bang for your retirement buck? There’s a place on this list with your name on it. So let’s take a look at some of the under-the-radar states that deserve your attention.

Idaho

Beyond potatoes, Idaho is a retiree’s dream if you like the great outdoors. Idaho is a never-ending postcard of picturesque mountains, serene lakes, and friendly small towns. Retirees looking for a little adventure, but not too far from home, will find Coeur d’Alene a peaceful place to live with mild seasons.

Kentucky

Kentucky is known for its bourbon and bluegrass, and it has a laidback lifestyle that’s great for retirement. For a state with as much scenic charm as rolling hills and horse farms, the cost of living here is surprisingly reasonable. Just the right balance of Southern hospitality and city conveniences can be found in Lexington and Louisville.

Mississippi

Maybe you need to unwind in Mississippi’s slower pace of life. It’s easier to stretch your savings here with affordable housing and low tax burden for retirees. From the coastal vibe of Gulfport to the history-rich streets of Natchez, there’s a lot to love in this Southern state.

New Mexico

New Mexico is calling for those who dream of sunsets bathed in the tonality of gold and crimson. The state’s dry climate is good for aging joints, and the state’s vibrant arts scene provides a touch of culture to daily life. It is from Santa Fe that I particularly like its sticky architecture and its strong community spirit.

West Virginia

Lying in the Appalachian Mountains, West Virginia is as a warm hug from nature. This is an inexpensive state with lots of outdoor things to do, hiking and fishing, and so on. Life in small towns like Lewisburg is welcoming, and people still wave hello to each other, and life moves at the right speed.

Arkansas

You won’t be thinking of Arkansas right away, but it’s a hidden jewel for retirees. Hot Springs and the Ozarks make The Natural State live up to its nickname. It’s an easy place to live without giving up comfort or beauty and it’s affordable and the weather is mild.

Oklahoma

Oklahoma might surprise you if you are looking for a state with a little bit of everything. It runs the gamut from tiny, quaint towns to busy cities like Tulsa that meet people’s needs in terms of lifestyle. Plus, it’s an affordable and centrally located place to live with family, all across the country.

Alabama

A catchy tune, yes, but it’s actually a great place to retire. There is a lot of history and charm, and it’s a low cost of living state. Fairhope’s a coastal town with waterfront views and a laidback pace where every day is a vacation.

Indiana

Indiana is a place where everyone is family. It is a good option for retirees who want simplicity, affordable housing, and friendly communities. Places like Bloomington take advantage of its arts and music scene, while the smaller towns still evoke a cozy small-town feel.

Nebraska

You may not see Nebraska as a flashy retirement location, but it’s a safe bet. It is stress-free, has low crime rates, and a low cost of living. Kearney is a small town with welcoming neighborhoods and the state’s scenic prairies provide peaceful afternoon drives.

South Dakota

Retirees who like wide open spaces and clear blue skies make South Dakota their haven. The bonus is the lack of state income tax, and the cost of living here is one of the most affordable in the country. There’s beauty all around from Mount Rushmore to the rolling hills of the Black Hills.

Maine

Maine is where you want to retire if you’ve ever dreamed of retiring to a coastal town and having fresh lobster on the menu. In the winter it is a bit chilly, but the charm of places like Bar Harbor and Camden make up for it. Here, life seems to move much slower, it’s like a deep breath of fresh ocean air.

Montana

Retirees looking for their days to be filled with natural beauty and serenity will find Montana perfect. It is known as Big Sky Country, for its vast mountain and plains vistas. Montana offers a mix of small-town warmth with Big City amenities between Missoula and Bozeman.

Delaware

The fact that this small state is often overlooked is a shame because when it comes to retirement, it punches way above its weight. There’s no sales tax, affordable housing, and the beaches are easy to reach so it’s practical and pretty. Retirees who want to take in coastal living find a sunny, friendly town in Rehoboth Beach.

Tennessee

Tennessee is justly praised as a place that hits the right balance of city life and rustic charm. Literarily speaking, Nashville and Knoxville have entertainment and cultural events, and smaller towns such as Franklin have a peaceful environment. It’s a favorite among retirees who want to settle down without going broke, thanks to the state’s moderate climate and low taxes.

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