After years of moving around and working full-time, the boomer generation has some strong opinions about where they won’t spend their retirement years. These are the top states retired people often say they’re done with for good.
California
It might have sunshine and ocean views, but for many, California has just gotten way too expensive due to sky-high housing prices and ever-increasing property taxes. Retirees usually say that the financial stress isn’t worth the view, and adding in traffic and regulations that seem to pile up every year, a lot pack up for more affordable pastures.
New York
Even upstate, where things are supposed to be quieter and cheaper, property taxes can be steep in New York, and you’re pairing that with cold, snowy winters and a fast lifestyle that doesn’t match up with slowing down.
Plenty of older people grew up dreaming about life in New York, or maybe even spent their younger years there, but in retirement, not so much.
Illinois
For those who once called Illinois home, a common complaint is the property taxes, which are among the highest in the country. Even if you own your house outright, that annual bill can really sting, and Chicago may offer culture, but traffic and crime concerns tend to outweigh the benefits as people age.
Alaska
If you’ve ever spent a winter in Alaska, you’ll understand why it’s not a retirement destination for most thanks to the isolation and long, dark winters. This makes it tough for anyone, but especially those who are looking for comfort, convenience, and easier access to medical care.
New Jersey
New Jersey often makes the list of states older individuals are eager to leave – and rarely return to – because of the steep property taxes and high cost of living. Some love being close to New York or Philly, but others say that benefit fades quickly when you’re dealing with seemingly endless toll roads.
Louisiana
For many, Louisiana is a place they’ll always visit, but not one they plan to call home again. While Louisiana has a rich culture, fantastic food, and music like nowhere else, it also has some challenges that push retirees away, including extreme weather and hurricanes.
Michigan
Lakeside towns in Michigan are lovely for a visit, yet many say they’d rather retire somewhere warmer and easier to navigate. Michigan has its charms, especially in the summer, but long, brutal winters and economic struggles in certain areas make it a tough sell for retirement.
Hawaii
It’s a paradise for a vacation, no doubt, but living in Hawaii full-time? Many of the boomer generation say it’s just not realistic anymore, even if you’d think Hawaii would be a retirement dream, but the high cost of living makes it a no-go when groceries and housing are so expensive.
Connecticut
Property taxes, energy bills, and general living costs are all higher than the national average in Connecticut, which can eat into retirement savings quickly. People who are now retired and who lived here while working commonly say they moved out the minute they retired, and don’t plan on going back.
Oregon
While the natural beauty is still stunning in Oregon, the rising cost of living and shifting city dynamics have turned some off completely. Sure, it used to be a popular spot for those in their later years looking for scenic landscapes and progressive values, but some say it’s changed.
Minnesota
Minnesota has friendly people and plenty of charm, but winters are no joke, therefore the idea of getting around icy sidewalks and sub-zero temps just doesn’t appeal to older people anymore.
Not to mention, the possibility of seasonal depression and high heating bills are enough to convince many retirees to look elsewhere.
Massachusetts
With its historic towns and prestigious universities, Massachusetts has a lot going for it – unless you’re trying to retire on a budget, that is. The state’s high taxes and costly housing market make it tough for fixed-income seniors, and while healthcare is generally good, some say they feel priced out.
Washington
Like Oregon, Washington has seen a major influx of people and rising costs to match; cities like Seattle are now among the most expensive in the country, and that’s made it hard for retirees on a budget to stay.
Older people often mention how different the vibe feels now compared to when they lived there decades ago, but now combined with gloomy weather and traffic headaches.
Rhode Island
It’s small, coastal, and full of history, but Rhode Island also has high taxes and harsh winters that push vulnerable people away. There’s not much space to spread out, either, and while some love its New England charm, others say the cost just isn’t worth it when there are sunnier, more affordable states to explore.
Nevada
For some retirees, Nevada’s heat and desert landscape just don’t offer the peaceful lifestyle they’re looking for. While cities like Las Vegas and Reno have entertainment and affordability, the dry climate and sometimes chaotic pace can be a turnoff when some people are looking for greenery.
Florida
It may sound surprising, but not all baby boomers are flocking to Florida, even though some still move there for the weather and tax benefits. Others say it’s gotten too crowded, too hot, and too prone to hurricanes, meaning insurance costs are through the roof, and rising real estate prices are in popular retirement spots.
POPULAR POSTS
18 Backyard Features That Are Now Totally Illegal
14 Jobs That Love Hiring Retirees Because They Actually Show Up and Work
17 Innocent-Looking Items That TSA Might Take Away from You
This article may contain AI-assisted content that has been reviewed and edited by our editors to ensure quality and accuracy.