Kentucky: 2025’s Worst State to Retire

 Living in the right place after you retire can make your money go a lot further. That’s important considering the fact that 66% of non-retired adults say their retirement savings aren’t on track. To determine the best states to retire, WalletHub compared the 50 states across 46 key indicators of retirement-friendliness, from financial factors like tax rates and the cost of living to things like access to quality medical care and fun activities.

   Top 5 States to Retire (2025):

Florida

Minnesota

Colorado

Wyoming

South Dakota

     There’s a reason Florida is known as a retirement paradise – it ranks as the best state to retire due to its relatively low taxes for retired people, including no estate, inheritance or income taxes. Plus, Florida receives more funding per senior from the Older Americans Act than all but two other states. This funds things like transportation, homemaker assistance and nutrition programs for seniors.

   In addition to financial factors, Florida provides an ideal environment for retirees. It has the second-most shoreline miles of any state, allowing for plenty of relaxing at the beach. It also has the second-most adult volunteer activities, fifth-most theater companies, and seventh-most golf courses and country clubs. There are plenty of ways for seniors to stay healthy and happy, which is reflected in the fact that Florida has the third-lowest death rate in the country for people ages 65+.

   Unfortunately, the overall cost of living is pretty high in Florida compared to many other states, but that doesn’t stop the Sunshine State from taking the top spot for retirees.

     Ranking at #50 as the worst state to retire was Kentucky. 

 •Overall Rank for Kentucky: 50th

 •22nd – Adjusted Cost of Living

 •43rd – Annual Cost of In-Home Services

 •34th – WalletHub ‘Taxpayer’ Ranking

 •39th – Elderly-Friendly Labor Market

 •28th – % of Population Aged 65 & Older

 •47th – Life Expectancy

 •21st – Health-Care Facilities per Capita

   Factors That Make Kentucky Less Desirable for Retirees

   High state income tax, sales tax, and property taxes

   High rates of obesity, heart disease, and diabetes, can increase healthcare costs and reduce the quality of life for retirees.

   Kentucky has a shortage of healthcare providers, particularly in rural areas.

   Limited cultural and recreational opportunities can be a drawback for retirees who are looking for a diverse range of activities and entertainment options.

    Kentucky has seen high levels of poverty and unemployment in recent years, which can impact retirees who may need to rely on a stable economy to support their retirement savings and income.