The 11 states retirees are fleeing to (not Florida)

America’s retirement map is being redrawn in real time as soaring costs push older Americans out of Florida and into unexpected corners of the country.

For decades, the path to a golden retirement seemed to point in one direction: straight down I-95 to the sunny, palm-lined streets of Florida. But as we look toward 2025 and 2026, the compass is spinning wildly, pointing retirees toward mountains, deserts, and even chilly northern borders. Driven by rising costs and insurance premiums in the Sunshine State, older Americans are rewriting the rulebook on where to spend their post-work years.

This migration isn’t just a trickle; it is a significant demographic shift reshaping communities nationwide. Retirees are trading humidity for affordability and substituting crowded beaches for wide-open spaces in states that were once overlooked. We’ve tracked the moving vans to identify the eleven states welcoming this new wave of residents.

New Hampshire

New England is having a major moment, and the Granite State is leading the charge as the premier destination for retirees who value safety and quality of life. According to a 2025 Bankrate study, New Hampshire has officially claimed the title of the number one state to retire in, dethroning long-time favorites.

While winters may be crisp, the absence of a sales tax and an income tax on wages makes it surprisingly friendly to your wallet. You get all the charm of the four distinct seasons without the financial headache that usually comes with coastal living.

North Carolina

If you aren’t quite ready to give up mild winters but want to escape Florida’s humidity, the Tar Heel State is the perfect “halfway back” solution. Recent data from SmartAsset shows that North Carolina recorded a net gain of over 20,300 retirees in the most recent year, ranking second only to Florida.

From the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains to the calming Outer Banks, this state offers a geographic diversity that keeps life interesting. It is a place where your retirement savings stretch further, allowing you to trade a cramped condo for a spacious home with a porch.

Arizona

The Grand Canyon State has always been a contender, but it is seeing a resurgence as people flee the humidity of the Southeast for dry, desert heat. With its stunning sunsets and endless golf courses, Arizona remains a top choice for those seeking sunshine without hurricane risk.

Affordability is a major draw here, especially in communities built specifically for active adults who want to stay social. In fact, Arizona saw a net migration of more than 20,200 seniors recently, putting it neck-and-neck with North Carolina for popularity.

South Carolina

Just south of the border, the Palmetto State offers classic Southern hospitality at a price tag much easier to swallow than its southern neighbor. Retirees are flocking to coastal towns like Charleston and Hilton Head, where history and leisure blend seamlessly.

The tax situation here is incredibly favorable, with full exemptions on Social Security benefits and generous deductions for other retirement income. You can spend your days on world-class golf courses or walking through historic squares without worrying about draining your nest egg.

Pennsylvania

It might seem like a wildcard, but the Keystone State is quietly becoming a powerhouse for retirees who want urban amenities without the big-city costs. Pennsylvania stands out fiscally because it is one of the few states that does not tax retirement income, including 401(k) and IRA withdrawals.

Cities like Pittsburgh are becoming healthcare and cultural hubs, offering top-tier medical access, a major priority for aging adults. Combined with a low flat income tax rate of just 3.07%, it is an economic haven for those living on fixed pensions.

Wyoming

For those who want to leave the crowds behind entirely, the Cowboy State offers wide-open vistas and some of the friendliest tax laws in the country. Wyoming residents are financially secure, as there is no state income tax, and the cost of living is low, provided you are comfortable being a bit farther from a major metropolitan area.

It is the ultimate destination for the rugged retiree who dreams of fishing, hiking, and watching the buffalo roam.

Maine

Another New England gem, Maine is attracting retirees seeking peace, quiet, and some of the world’s most beautiful coastlines. It consistently ranks in the top ten for safety (4) and healthcare (6) quality, two factors that become non-negotiable as we age.

The pace of life here is decidedly slower, known locally as “vacationland” for a reason, making it perfect for unwinding after a decades-long career. You can spend your mornings watching the sunrise over the Atlantic and your evenings enjoying fresh lobster at a fraction of the export price.

Delaware

Small but mighty, Delaware has long been known as a corporate haven, but it is quickly becoming a retirement sanctuary as well. With no sales tax and low property taxes, it offers a coastal lifestyle that is far more affordable than New Jersey or New York.

Its central location is a major perk, putting you within an easy train ride of major cultural centers like Philadelphia and Washington, D.C. You get the best of both worlds: a quiet beach-town atmosphere with big-city amenities just a short trip away.

Oregon

The Pacific Northwest is calling, and retirees are answering that call in record numbers, drawn by the lush landscapes and eco-friendly lifestyle. A 2025 study by United Van Lines found that Oregon was the top state for inbound moves, with 65% of all moves being people entering the state.

While it can be pricier than the Midwest, you are paying for access to incredible nature, from the rugged coast to the high desert. For active retirees who plan to spend their golden years hiking, biking, and exploring, there is simply no better backdrop.

Idaho

The Gem State is no longer a hidden secret; it is one of the fastest-growing destinations for retirees fleeing the high costs of the West Coast. Boise and the surrounding areas offer a safe, clean environment with a cost of living that makes a California pension feel like a fortune.

Community spirit is strong here, and the crime rates are among the lowest in the nation, providing peace of mind for older residents. You can enjoy four distinct seasons and renowned outdoor recreation without the crushing tax burden found in neighboring states.

Minnesota

It might be cold, but the Land of 10,000 Lakes is heating up as a surprising favorite for retirees who prioritize health and community. Consistently ranked near the top for healthcare systems and geriatric care, Minnesota is a smart choice for long-term well-being.

The state offers a high quality of life, with a vibrant arts scene and a culture that emphasizes caring for one another. Despite snowy winters, the infrastructure is designed to handle them, ensuring you are never snowed in and can live your best life.

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