Study Ranks States By Retirement Affordability
A study conducted by Retirement Living has identified the most and least affordable states for retirees. The ranking considered factors such as housing costs, overall cost of living, and tax rates. West Virginia was found to be the most affordable…

Terre Haute, IN, September 30, 2026 — A recent study by Retirement Living has detailed the states offering the most and least affordable environments for individuals planning to retire. The comprehensive ranking analyzed key financial considerations crucial for retirees, including housing costs, the general cost of living, and various tax rates.
The findings indicate that West Virginia stands out as the most affordable state for retirees. Following closely behind, the study identified Mississippi, Alabama, Oklahoma, and Arkansas as the next four most affordable states, completing the top five.
In contrast, the study identified California as the least affordable state for retirees. The research further highlighted that Hawaii, Washington, Oregon, and Colorado are also among the states with the highest costs for retirement living, forming the subsequent ranks of least affordable locations.
The methodology employed by Retirement Living aimed to provide a clear picture of where retirees can potentially maximize their savings and income. By examining housing expenses, everyday living costs, and tax burdens, the study offers data points for individuals to consider as they plan their retirement destinations.
The detailed breakdown provides a resource for prospective retirees to compare financial landscapes across the United States, enabling more informed decisions about where to settle during their retirement years based on affordability metrics.
Story summarized from the original created by Caresse Jackman on www.wthitv.com, see more information here.
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