Deciding where to settle after retirement can be challenging. But location is among the critical factors that determine how fulfilling a person’s twilight years will be. Therefore, it’s best to take some time and pick a suitable place where you can picture yourself living happily. To do so, first, prioritize your requirements. Grab a paper if required and note all those things you would need for a joyful retired life.

What to consider when picking a location
The following are a few necessary aspects to keep in mind. The top ten states to retire discussed later consider these parameters:

Cost of living
The best place to retire in the USA is where you’re financially comfortable. This requires checking two primary factors: the cost of living and tax burdens. Find out how much it costs on average to live in a particular state for a month, along with the extent of property taxes. Then cross-check with your budget to see if that’s affordable.

Healthcare
Keep your age and health condition in mind when choosing a location. It must have a robust healthcare system, including nursing facilities that can cater to every need considering you’ll spend the rest of your days there. Don’t forget to look at the healthcare cost of the state as well as the type of health insurance policies available.

Safety
Senior citizens’ homes are often targets for robberies, but these can be avoided to a great extent by moving to a safer place. So, find out the state’s crime rates before moving there. A few government agencies list these statistics on their websites. Safety is a critical parameter for choosing a state to retire.

Lifestyle
Every state has its character. It’s up to each one to find the best place to retire in the USA that supports their lifestyle. It depends on many factors like whether you want a quiet or vibrant life and if you’re outdoorsy or prefer staying indoors. The region’s population and demographics are also influential. See if the state has a significant population of retired persons if you want to mingle with same-age people.

Top ten states to retire
The following states are considered the best to live after retirement based on the factors listed above:

Iowa
Retirees prefer this place because of its good nursing facilities and economic stability. Iowa has many healthcare providers, ensuring people find help when needed. The state also offers plenty of opportunities if you want to continue working.

West Virginia
Some might be surprised to see this name here, but the numbers don’t lie. West Virginia has the country’s third-largest percentage of people over 65. The primary reasons are significantly low healthcare and living costs. In addition, the state has a senior-friendly tax system.

Mississippi
It’s another state with low healthcare and living costs. People enjoy tax exemption on all kinds of retirement income. Apart from that, Mississippi has warm weather, which many seniors enjoy. It even boasts a low crime rate, making it among the safest places to retire in the USA.

Florida
Florida has been a popular destination for retirees for many years. It offers comfortable weather, affordable housing, cultural diversity, and a large population of senior citizens. Plus, there’s a massive coastline for those who want to relax along the shore.

Kentucky
The cost of living in Kentucky is significantly lower than in many other states, making it a popular choice of residence. The place is also safe with the rate of violent crime on the lower side. The best part is that you can find several certified retirement communities here.

Connecticut
Connecticut makes its way into the top ten states to retire because of its excellent healthcare and low crime rate. However, the cost of living is higher, making it unaffordable for average-income retirees. 

Missouri
This state has many positives: good nursing care facilities, low living costs, and a high employment rate. However, Missouri has a somewhat high crime rate as well, which may not suit the elderly. 

Alabama
The two most significant factors that make Alabama feature among the best places to retire in the USA are low living costs and favorable weather. Property taxes are also affordable, and those over 65 are exempt.

Arkansas
Property tax and overall living costs are low in Arkansas. In addition, the state has affordable healthcare, good nursing capability, and a beautiful landscape.

Rhode Island
If you’re financially comfortable, Rhode Island can be a great place. While the overall living cost is slightly higher, healthcare is excellent, and the crime rate is low.

The above places are among the best for a comfortable and enjoyable retired life. Choose based on your budget and other expectations, and don’t forget to compare multiple options.