New Hampshire Tops List of Best Retirement States

Bankrate Guide Ranks States on Affordability, Safety, Healthcare, and Taxes

Planning for retirement involves more than just sunny days and tax breaks. A comprehensive new study by Bankrate aims to guide prospective retirees, evaluating all 50 states on crucial factors that impact quality of life.

New Hampshire Leads the Pack

New Hampshire has emerged as the premier destination for retirees, according to Bankrate’s latest analysis. The Granite State received top marks for neighborhood safety, ranking first nationally. It also scored highly for quality healthcare (5th), low local taxes (6th), and the presence of a robust senior community (7th).

Despite its strengths, New Hampshire was ranked 40th for weather, highlighting a potential drawback for those seeking warmer climates.

Louisiana Falls to the Bottom

Conversely, Louisiana ranked last overall, struggling across multiple assessment categories. The state received low scores for affordability (43rd), neighborhood safety (48th), and quality healthcare (37th). High crime rates and less favorable weather conditions (39th) also contributed to its lowest position.

Factors Beyond the Obvious

Financial analyst Stephen Kates emphasized that the report considers a broader spectrum of retiree needs. “Retirees and pre-retirees should take notice of these rankings because we looked beyond the typical categories to look closely at important lifestyle and risk factors for residents of various states,” he stated in the report.

“There is more to being a resident than just the number of sunny days and taxes. Categories like public safety, walkability, access to health care, air quality, recreational opportunities, and more add up to the daily quality of life retirees want.”

—Stephen Kates, Bankrate Financial Analyst

Bankrate’s methodology involved a deep dive into a variety of metrics, including public safety, walkability, healthcare access, and air quality, to provide a holistic view of each state’s retirement potential. For a full breakdown of the criteria, Bankrate’s guide is available here.

This comprehensive approach is crucial as the U.S. population ages; in 2023, the number of people aged 65 and over reached 59 million, representing 17.3% of the total population, according to the U.S. Census Bureau (U.S. Census Bureau, 2024).

Residents looking to relocate for their retirement years may find this detailed state-by-state comparison invaluable in making an informed decision that aligns with their personal priorities and financial goals.

Here’s a rewritten version of the article, preserving all verifiable facts and aiming for 100% uniqueness:

A 48-year-old man, who has navigated the challenges of depression-streak/” title=”Ways to End Your … Streak”>mental illness, specifically depression and anxiety, since the age of 13, shares his journey toward recovery. He reflects on the societal pressure he felt, believing that men were expected to suppress emotions and avoid discussing their struggles, which he initially perceived as a sign of weakness. This internal conflict made seeking help a difficult process for him over the years.

However, a few years ago, he decided to confide in his primary care physician about his long-standing suffering.This act of vulnerability led to the advancement of a treatment plan. A DNA test was conducted, providing insights into which psychiatric medications would be compatible with his body. After trying a second medication, he found a accomplished combination that has significantly improved his well-being.

He reports that his depression and anxiety are now highly manageable, allowing him to feel like his true self and experience a sense of hope. For the first time in decades,he expresses a profound appreciation for being alive.

In his message,addressed to “Annie,” he emphasizes the importance of seeking help and encourages both men and women to persevere,stating that giving up is not an option. He recounts his own disbelief that he would ever feel “sane” again, but credits his current state to his willingness to be vulnerable and open up to his doctor. He asserts that this decision was immensely worthwhile and something he will never regret. He concludes by reiterating his message of hope to anyone experiencing similar struggles.

“Annie” responds to his story with admiration,calling it “stunning” and affirming his message that hope exists,even in the darkest of times. She acknowledges the difficulty of reaching out for assistance when facing challenges and commends him for his courage. Annie highlights various avenues for coping with depression and anxiety, including medication, support groups, and therapy, and congratulates him on his bravery in speaking up, being vulnerable, and trusting others to aid him in his recovery.

heterosexual couple

Planning your retirement? You might want to avoid these states

New Hampshire Tops List of Best Retirement States

Bankrate Guide Ranks States on Affordability, Safety, Healthcare, and Taxes

New Hampshire Leads the Pack

Louisiana Falls to the Bottom

Factors Beyond the Obvious

Man’s Story of Overcoming Depression and Anxiety | Dear Annie