8 states retirees say they wouldn’t move to if they could do it again

When retirement arrives, many people dream about relocating somewhere new. Warm weather, lower taxes, and beautiful scenery often top the list of reasons people move.

But some retirees later discover that their new home comes with unexpected costs or lifestyle challenges. Taxes, housing prices, health care access, and climate risks can all play a role in whether a destination truly works long term.

Here are eight states that attract many retirees but sometimes leave newcomers with second thoughts.

1. Florida

Florida is famous for being a retirement haven, partly because the state does not charge an income tax.

However, retirees sometimes encounter higher-than-expected expenses. The combined state and local sales tax averages about 7.02%, and property taxes average about 0.74% for owner-occupied homes.

Insurance costs have also risen sharply in recent years, especially in hurricane-prone areas, which has created financial stress for some retirees.

2. Texas

Texas is another popular retirement destination thanks to its lack of a state income tax.

But the state relies more heavily on other taxes. Property taxes average about 1.36%, and the combined state and local sales tax rate averages 8.20%. These costs can add up quickly for retirees living on fixed incomes.

Some retirees also note that health care access in parts of Texas can be limited compared to other states.

3. Arizona

Arizona's sunny weather and desert scenery draw retirees from across the country.

However, extreme heat can lead to high utility costs. Air conditioning may be necessary for much of the year, and monthly electricity bills could climb significantly during the summer.

Overall living costs in the state are also about 6.4% higher than the national average, according to BestPlaces.

4. Nevada

Nevada is known for having no state income tax, which attracts retirees looking to reduce their tax burden.

Still, everyday living costs can be higher than expected. In Reno, the cost of living is about 18.6% higher than the U.S. average, while Las Vegas sits about 10.6% above average.

Some retirees also cite extreme summer heat and limited health care access in certain areas as drawbacks.

5. Delaware

Delaware offers several tax advantages for retirees, including no sales tax and exemptions on Social Security income.

However, health care access can be limited in parts of the state. In addition, Delaware's coastal location exposes some communities to storms and flooding risks.

6. Tennessee

Tennessee attracts retirees partly because it does not tax income.

But strong population growth has pushed housing prices higher in recent years. The average home price has increased significantly since 2021, making it harder for retirees to find affordable housing.

The state also has one of the highest combined state and local sales tax rates in the country at about 9.61%.

7. Colorado

Colorado offers scenic mountain views and abundant outdoor recreation.

However, housing prices remain high in many areas. Median home sale prices are around $530,000 according to Zillow.

Colorado also has a flat 4.4% income tax and an average combined state and local sales tax rate of about 7.9%, which could affect retirees on fixed incomes.

8. Idaho

Idaho has gained popularity as a quieter and more scenic retirement destination.

But the cost of living has risen sharply in recent years. In Boise, for example, living costs are roughly 19.6% higher than the national average.

The state also has a 5.3% income tax and a 6% sales tax, which may surprise retirees expecting lower overall expenses.

Bottom line

Moving in retirement can be exciting, but the reality of living somewhere full-time may differ from a vacation visit.

Before relocating, retirees may benefit from researching taxes, health care access, housing costs, and climate risks. Spending time in a location before making a permanent move could help avoid costly surprises later.

Editor's Note: Portions of this story were drafted with assistance from generative AI tools. All final creative decisions, edits, and fact checking were done by human writers and editors.