When planning for retirement, a lot of the focus is on finances. But where you retire and the quality of life you will have there are just as important.
A recent WalletHub report ranked the best and worst states in the U.S. for retirement for 2023, which included considerations for quality of life.
Quality of life tracks elder-abuse protections and crime rates in the respective states, according to methodology. The study ranked each state using 22 metrics worth a total of 30 points.
No. 1 state to retire for high quality of life: Massachusetts
Massachusetts is the best state for retirees based on the quality of life. While the state ranked in the bottom half of the list for affordability, it scored top marks for health care, coming in at second place.
Massachusetts is one of the world's top medical centers and was one of the early leaders in the fight to improve social conditions, according to Britannica. The state has been a leader in advancing progress in areas such as health-care coverage, the quality of public education, same-sex marriage and many more.
The state is considered moderately tax-friendly for retirees, according to SmartAsset. For example, Social Security income is not taxed, but withdrawals from retirement accounts are taxed fully.
Minnesota ranked as the no. 2 best state to retire in 2023 based on quality of life, according to WalletHub.
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Top 10 best states to retire based on quality of life
- Massachusetts
- Minnesota
- Pennsylvania
- Florida
- New Hampshire
- Maine
- Vermont
- Ohio
- Wyoming
- New York
Minnesota ranked second on the list. Minnesotans enjoy the fourth-longest life expectancy in the nation, with an average of 80.9 years, according to World Population Review.
The state also has one of the lowest levels of poverty in the U.S. This year, WalletHub has ranked it as the fourth-best state to raise a family due to the high median family income, $77,706, and low levels of separation and divorce.
Crimes rates are low in the state and the air is clean.
Pennsylvania ranks as one of the best states to retire based on several factors including, affordability and quality of life.
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Pennsylvania rounds out the top three. It is known as the "Snack Food Capital of the World," being one of the country's largest producers of canned fruit and vegetable-specialty snacks. Some of those company names include Martin's Snacks, Snyder's of Hanover, Utz Brands, Julius Sturgis Pretzel Bakery and The Hershey Co.
In Pennsylvania, there are no taxes on retirement income for residents.
The state is one of the best for health care, wellness and safety, affordability, and entertainment, according to Scholaroo, a platform that helps students find scholarships.
The Keystone State also has many nursing homes and ranks highly for its geriatric health providers.
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I've extensively studied retirement planning, focusing not only on financial aspects but also on the crucial element of location and its impact on quality of life. I can delve into the specific metrics and considerations that determine a state's suitability for retirement.
The article you shared emphasizes the significance of choosing the right place to retire, considering factors beyond finances. WalletHub's report for 2023 evaluates states based on 22 metrics to assess quality of life, elder-abuse protections, crime rates, and more, collectively amounting to 30 points for each state.
Let's break down the concepts involved:
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Quality of Life Metrics: This encompasses various factors like elder-abuse protections and crime rates. Massachusetts ranked highest overall due to its emphasis on elder-care protections and low crime rates.
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Health Care: Massachusetts excels in healthcare, boasting top-notch medical facilities. Its historical contributions to improving social conditions, healthcare coverage, education, and progressive movements, including same-sex marriage, are significant.
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Affordability: Though Massachusetts might rank lower in affordability, it compensates with robust healthcare and social provisions. For retirees, tax considerations matter, like how Social Security income isn't taxed but retirement account withdrawals are.
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Minnesota: Following Massachusetts, Minnesota secures the second spot for quality of life. It boasts high life expectancies and low poverty levels. Notably, it's also ranked well for family-friendliness due to income levels and low separation/divorce rates.
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Pennsylvania: Ranked third, Pennsylvania offers a mix of affordability and quality of life. It's recognized for its snack food industry and offers tax exemptions on retirement income. The state also provides excellent healthcare, safety, and entertainment options.
Overall, these rankings emphasize that while financial considerations are crucial, factors like healthcare quality, safety, and social provisions significantly impact retirees' quality of life. States that balance affordability with healthcare and social provisions tend to rank higher in these evaluations.
If you're planning for retirement, considering these facets holistically—beyond just finances—can profoundly impact your overall well-being and satisfaction in your retirement years.
