7. Washington
- Cost-of-living index: 111.6
- Average one-bedroom rent (January 2022): $1,376
If Social Security checks are your sole source of retirement income, you may want to stay away from this state. As a geographically and ethnically diverse part of the Pacific Northwest, Washington is a jolt of energy. Washington is famous for being a place where you can disconnect from your urban roots and explore nature, from its white-capped peaks and lush wilds to its urban centers.
While megacities like Seattle are lively and beautiful, to truly see the state’s charm, you have to head to its forests and coasts. Teeming with natural wonders, the Evergreen State shows great diversity in its landscapes.
Now, you may wonder whether this place is suitable for someone who lives on just a Social Security check. Well, utilities are cheaper there compared to other US states — much cheaper, actually. However, retirees as well as everyone else who lives there spend more than the national average across every other cost-of-living category.
I left Taxachusetts 50 years ago. Moved to Alaska!!!! Best thing I ever did. No personal State income tax!!! No State sales tax. Yes it gets cold and dark in winter. But summers are beautiful. Warmth and all the sunlight. It’s home!!!!!! HOME is where you make it. Playing golf at midnight is awesome!!! Each year eligible citizens get a Permanent Fund Dividend check from the State from the oil revenues received from oil revenue taxes. But the best part is the beauty of it all. Hunting, fishing, scenery, the people. It’s just different from the Lower 48!!!!!
That isn’t a picture of Washington. That is Washington, DC. Duh???
You forgot Texas. Even the winter Texans commented on how higher prices are, then at home.
Take me off the Lists!
By the way, Washington D.C. is not in the state of Washington. The Washington Monument shown in the picture is in Washington D.C.