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10 Worst States to Live on Just a Social Security Check

December 20, 2022 · Personal Finance
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Photo by Lucky-photographer from shutterstock.com

2. California

  • Cost-of-living index: 142.2
  • Average one-bedroom rent (January 2022): $1,652

California is a captivating place full of travel destinations due to its natural beauty, coastlines, theme parks, and vibrant towns not seen anywhere else on Earth. Truth be told, the Golden State is perhaps the most renowned state in America, and many people visit this place for its lifestyle, landscape, as well as other activities.

Financially speaking, the average household income for seniors is significantly above average, yet plenty of seniors are unable to handle the heavy burden: 1 in 10 residents age 65 and older are living in poverty. But not just that: excluding the Social Security benefits, retirement income is fully taxable.

With above-average costs in almost every cost-of-living category and a housing index above 200, California has earned its reputation as a high-cost retirement place. If you’re planning to retire on Social Security checks alone, the California dream will likely remain just that.

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52 comments on “10 Worst States to Live on Just a Social Security Check”

  1. Jack Strange says:
    January 5, 2023 at 11:01 pm

    I would think Pennsylvania should be listed as 1 of the worst states to live in for retirees

    Reply
  2. John Perry says:
    January 7, 2023 at 11:11 pm

    Comments about #3 New York zero in on NYC which is not the real New York. When it comes to New York State “go west young man, go west”. NYC is too expensive plus it’s a rat-infested pit. Go westward into New York and live a much better quality of life. Avoid NYC at all cost!
    Western NY born, raised, and educated and lovin’ it.

    Reply
  3. Sheri V says:
    January 8, 2023 at 6:18 pm

    You forgot IL

    Reply
  4. Jack says:
    February 27, 2024 at 5:27 pm

    I did not know that the Washington Monument is located in the state of Washington.

    Reply
  5. John Noe says:
    February 27, 2024 at 11:31 pm

    Not surprised MA made this list. I am working while also collecting Social Security. I have family here for now, but in the future would look to move.

    Is it just me or has anyone else noticed that the 10 worst states except Florida are all blue states? If one does go to Florida, then just keep on working or look to live in senor Housing Authority.

    Reply
  6. Beo Wulf says:
    February 28, 2024 at 9:05 pm

    Learn the difference between Washington tge state and Washington D. C.

    Reply
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