Get ready to grab your sunhat and maybe a convertible—because retirement destinations for the well-heeled are as much about lifestyle as they are about tax breaks. From beaches where your golf cart might outnumber cars to mountain towns that feel like your personal retreat, millionaires are charting their next chapters in spots that offer the perfect cocktail of comfort, community, and (let’s be honest) brag-worthy bragging rights. Here are the top 14 U.S. states where the one-percenters are hanging up their briefcases and kicking back right now.
1. Florida
Florida remains a top retirement spot thanks to its zero state income tax, which excludes Social Security benefits and retirement account withdrawals from taxation—meaning more mojitos and less paperwork in your golden years, according to Investopedia. Sunshine isn’t just good for your vitamin D levels; it’s a magnet for millionaires tired of shoveling snow. The Villages alone has transformed into an adult playground with 42 golf courses and more golf carts than traffic lights. Miami’s luxury condo market is buzzing, with high-net-worth buyers scooping up units for panoramic views of Biscayne Bay. Retirees swap board meetings for boardwalk strolls along South Beach, where art deco architecture meets rooftop cocktails. Healthcare infrastructure caters to seniors, with top-tier hospitals and specialized geriatric care dotted across the state. However, keep hurricane season on your radar—better have that premium property insurance squared away.
From coastal enclaves like Naples to cultural havens like Sarasota, Florida delivers diversity in scenery and community vibes. For those craving an active lifestyle, biking trails and pickleball courts are basically a state pastime. If nightlife still calls your name, cities like Fort Lauderdale and Tampa keep the party going. And let’s not forget the tax-free shopping on retiree essentials—goodbye, state sales tax on cold medicine! The absence of an estate tax sweetens the deal for passing on your nest egg. Whether you’re teeing off at dawn or catching a Cuban coffee at sunset, Florida’s blend of leisure and financial perks is hard to beat.
2. Texas
You might think everything’s bigger in Texas—yep, that includes the retiree bank balances. Texas is a haven for millionaires because it doesn’t tax individual income, including retirement distributions, as reported by Kiplinger. Imagine sipping sweet tea on a sprawling Hill Country ranch without Uncle Sam slicing off a chunk of your 401(k). Major cities like Austin and Dallas have seen a surge of affluent transplants swapping their high-tax hometowns for Lone Star freedom. Beyond the music festivals and live rodeos, competitors on the wealth leaderboard include small towns with big charm, like Fredericksburg’s wine trails.
Healthcare access in Texas is impressively robust, with Houston’s medical center recognized globally. Cultural connoisseurs flock to San Antonio’s River Walk, where gourmet dining and historic missions create the perfect backdrop for retirement brunches. Property taxes can be a tad higher, but generous homestead exemptions cushion the blow for seniors, especially on fixed incomes. And let’s be honest: there’s nothing like Texas BBQ to make you forget about market volatility. Whether you’re watching bluebonnets bloom in spring or catching a Cowboys game under the lights, Texas offers a big embrace—no pun intended.
3. Arizona
If your retirement moodboard includes desert sunsets and spa weekends, Arizona is calling your name. The Grand Canyon State has rapidly climbed the millionaire-retiree charts, as Bloomberg notes that affluent newcomers are fueling population growth in cities like Scottsdale and Phoenix. With most property taxes below the national average, your home equity can stretch further. Golf communities pepper the Sonoran Desert—think lush greens nestled among saguaro cacti.
Arizona’s dry climate is a boon for joint pain and allergy sufferers, and top-tier sunbelt hospitals ensure you’re well cared for. Cultural hot spots like Tucson’s arts district or Sedona’s red-rock galleries add a creative twist to retirement days. In winter, “snowbirds” flock north to escape harsher climates but keep their Arizona digs as a year-round playground. And if your inner chef craves Southwest flavors, you’re in luck—chimichangas for days. With no tax on Social Security and generous exemptions on retirement income, Arizona’s financial perks shine as brightly as its sunsets.
4. North Carolina
Blue Ridge Mountains or Atlantic beaches? In North Carolina, you don’t have to choose—and that versatility is what draws millionaire retirees, according to Business Insider’s analysis of high-income migration patterns . Asheville’s artsy vibe and craft breweries contrast nicely with the Outer Banks’ laid-back surf culture. No state tax on Social Security and partial exemptions on other retirement income mean more cash for bespoke mountain cabins or oceanfront condos.
Healthcare systems in Raleigh-Durham’s Research Triangle offer world-class medical services, while Charlotte’s banking scene keeps the CFO in you intrigued. Golfers have Pinehurst; hikers have the Appalachian Trail. Property values are still relatively reasonable, giving you luxury without the sticker shock of coastal California or New York suburbs. Add in mild seasons—minus the extreme heat of the Deep South—and it’s clear why retirees are packing up and heading east in droves.
5. Tennessee
Tennessee may be known for its music, but retirees are composing a new life score here. Yahoo Finance highlights that Tennessee ranks high in mean retiree household income and offers no state income tax on wages or retirement withdrawals. Nashville and Memphis bring live music and cultural districts to your doorstep, while the Smoky Mountains provide a serene retreat for nature lovers. Sales tax can feel hefty, but seniors benefit from property tax relief programs that ease long-term costs.
Healthcare hubs in cities like Knoxville and Chattanooga ensure quick access to care, and boutique towns such as Franklin offer quaint downtowns worth exploring weekly. Tennessee’s climate is mild enough to enjoy year-round hiking, and retirees can still catch the fall foliage without deep snow. Whether you’re jamming at a honky-tonk or hiking to a waterfall, Tennessee strikes the perfect chord between fun and financial savvy.
6. Colorado
Picture waking up to crisp mountain air, grabbing your favorite hiking boots, and contemplating whether you’ll hit the Rockies or the local yoga studio first. Colorado’s outdoor obsession means you’ll never run out of trails to explore, whether you’re chasing aspen groves in the fall or wildflowers in the spring. From Aspen’s glitzy après-ski scene to Boulder’s laid-back farmers’ markets, there’s a neighborhood to match every retirement mood. Health-minded millionaires love that staying active is practically a state mandate—just don’t be surprised if your golf cart has more gear than a backpacking expedition.
The cultural calendar packs Broadway-caliber theater in Denver alongside indie music festivals in Crested Butte. Property values can be high, but the payoff is an enviable view of snow-capped peaks and endless sunshine—over 300 days a year, in fact. Culinary scenes are surprisingly sophisticated, with farm-to-table eateries showcasing Colorado lamb or Palisade peaches. Winters invite cozy chalet gatherings by the fire, while summers beckon you to paddleboard on turquoise mountain lakes. Even if you’ve never skied a day in your life, you’ll find a community of “ski widows and widowers” who share your enthusiasm for après-après. And with a thriving arts scene, you can swap stock charts for gallery openings without missing a beat.
7. South Carolina
Imagine sipping sweet tea on a wraparound porch while moss-draped oaks sway overhead—that’s retirement in South Carolina. Coastal gems like Charleston deliver historic charm, cobblestone streets, and enough pastel houses to make a rainbow jealous. Golf aficionados flock to Hilton Head Island where fairways hug the marshlands, and you can brag about your handicap without shame. Myrtle Beach balances boardwalk neon with the soothing crash of Atlantic waves, providing both nightlife and nap-ready beach naps.
Inland, small towns boast antique shops and farm-to-fork eateries that transform fresh produce into culinary masterpieces. The Lowcountry’s wetlands host kayaking adventures right in your backyard and plenty of bird-watching opportunities to keep you busy. Winters are mild enough to swap heavy coats for light jackets, perfect for spontaneous coastal road trips. Art galleries and music festivals sprinkle culture throughout the calendar year, so you’ll always have an excuse to dress up. Even estate planning feels breezier under palmetto trees, as generous homestead exemptions help protect your slice of Southern paradise. Friendly neighbors and a slower pace of life mean you’ll find new friends faster than you can say “bless your heart.”
8. Virginia
Virginia lets you choose your retirement adventure like ordering from a soul-soothing all-you-can-eat buffet. Cradle of history buffs, Williamsburg’s reenactments bring colonial life alive—no time machine required. Sandwiched between the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Atlantic coast, you can swap hiking boots for flip-flops in under a day. Wine lovers adore the state’s burgeoning vineyards in Loudoun County, sipping Cabernet next to rolling green hills. In Hampton Roads, waterfront living comes with breezy boardwalk strolls and fresh-caught seafood that puts restaurant menus to shame.
Northern Virginia suburbs buzz with cultural events, world-class museums, and eclectic dining options that rival any metro area. The Shenandoah Valley offers charming small towns dotted with artisan shops, perfect for weekend exploration. Autumn foliage in the mountains is a spectacle even Instagram can’t fully capture—and trust us, you’ll try. Mild winters allow year-round golf games and scenic drives along the Blue Ridge Parkway. With robust healthcare networks and nearby research hospitals, access to top-tier medical care is never a worry. Every sunset feels like a personal masterpiece, painting your retirement days in hues you’ll never forget.
9. Nevada
Swap your snow shovel for a cocktail stirrer when you retire in Nevada, where no state income tax means more chips in your retirement portfolio. Las Vegas steals the spotlight with world-class entertainment, Michelin-starred restaurants, and nightlife that implores you to “just one more show.” But beyond the Strip, serene communities in Reno and Henderson offer luxury living without the nonstop buzz. High desert landscapes mean sunshine nearly every day, reducing crimson cheeks and winter blues alike. Golf courses wind through dramatic terrain, mixing desert chic with fairway finesse.
Outdoor enthusiasts can explore Lake Tahoe’s sapphire waters or trek through Red Rock Canyon like a local. Boutique towns like Elko and Carson City surprise with Western charm, complete with historic downtowns and community festivals. The heat can be intense in summer, but resort-style pools and cooling spas make escaping the sun part of the fun. With property tax caps keeping budgets in check, your dream retirement home in the Silver State feels well within reach. Plus, a burgeoning arts scene proves that Nevada’s cultural depth runs deeper than casino chips.
10. Washington
Washington State blends rain-kissed evergreens with Pacific breezes—perfect for retirees who like their landscapes moody yet majestic. Seattle’s skyline, crowned by the Space Needle, delivers coffee-shop culture and foodie flair that keeps your Instagram feed lit. Ferry rides to the San Juan Islands offer orca-spotting and artsy B&Bs where you’ll quickly learn the local knitting scene. The Olympic Peninsula’s rainforests feel like a fairytale, with moss-draped trees straight out of a storybook.
No state income tax means your pension and investment returns arrive intact, though you’ll pay a bit more for that artisan latte. Wine country in Walla Walla pours award-winning reds, making vineyard tours a sophisticated Saturday ritual. Mild summers invite backyard barbecues under endless daylight, while cozy winters call for hikes in snow-dusted mountain parks. Top-tier healthcare systems in Spokane and Seattle ensure peace of mind, whether you need a checkup or specialized treatment. Even urban areas boast abundant green spaces, so strollers and seniors dance through city parks in harmony. For those craving a blend of big-city amenities and untamed wilderness, Washington crafts a retirement narrative worthy of a bestselling novel.
11. Georgia
From Atlanta’s skyline shimmer to Savannah’s Spanish moss and cobblestones, Georgia serves rich history and modern hustle in equal measure. Peach trees and Southern hospitality punctuate every neighborhood, making it hard not to smile at your corner coffee shop. Millionaires appreciate that Atlanta’s film industry boom and tech scene keep things fresh—think red carpets meeting coding bootcamps. Savannah’s pastel facades and riverfront squares are perfect for leisurely strolls that end in rooftop bars.
Head north to the Blue Ridge Mountains for cabin retreats where artisan breweries and apple orchards color your weekends. Coastal escapes on Tybee Island serve up shrimp boils that redefine seafood goals, paired with beach bonfires under starry skies. Georgia’s partial tax exemptions on retirement income mean more cheddar for cultural events and food festivals. Golf courses dot the landscape, from Augusta’s legendary fairways to private club sanctuaries in suburban Atlanta. Healthcare hubs, including top academic medical centers, ensure you’re covered if life throws a curveball. Every season brings a new festival or farmers’ market—retirement here is like living inside a well-curated Instagram story.
12. Oregon
Oregon’s “no sales tax” policy is just the opening act in a state that loves to be the underdog. Portland’s quirky coffee shops and food-truck festivals feed your foodie soul while microbreweries keep the pints flowing. Coastal drives along Highway 101 unwrap sweeping ocean views, lighthouse pit-stops, and tide pools begging to be explored. Inland, the Willamette Valley’s vineyards produce Pinot Noir that even the snobbiest sommeliers salute.
Mount Hood’s ski slopes and Crater Lake’s deep-blue waters promise adventure for every retiree craving variety. Eco-conscious communities and robust recycling programs mean you can feel good about reducing your footprint. Mild, wet winters keep your lawns green and your flare for rain slickers alive—just pack a stylish waterproof jacket. Urban parks, like Portland’s Forest Park, offer miles of trails within city limits, so you never stray far from nature. Property costs can vary wildly, but finding a charming farmhouse or modern condo is entirely doable outside the biggest metro pockets. Creative scenes thrive statewide, from street murals to artisan markets that make every weekend feel like a cultural scavenger hunt.
13. Massachusetts
Massachusetts may have New England’s reputation for fickle weather, but its retirement perks are rock solid. Boston’s historic cobblestoned Freedom Trail isn’t just a tourist attraction—it’s your daily power walk. World-class hospitals like Mass General mean your doctor recommendations read like a Forbes list. Cape Cod’s breezy cottages beckon you for weekend escapes filled with clam chowder and sea breezes.
College towns like Amherst and Cambridge buzz with lectures, art exhibits, and intellectual soirées that keep your mind sharp. Fall foliage here is the stuff of postcards—crimson, gold, and amber painting every corner of the Commonwealth. Lobster rolls in coastal shacks are mandatory culinary pilgrimages, and farmers’ markets brim with maple syrup and hearty root veggies. Property taxes can be stiff, but town-specific exemptions for seniors help soften the blow. Winters invite cozy nights by the fire and maybe—just maybe—learning to ice skate on a frozen pond. Between fall football games at Harvard Stadium and summer Shakespeare in the Park, Massachusetts seasons feel like scenes from a classic novel you’re starring in.
14. New Hampshire
New Hampshire’s lack of sales and income tax instantly wins over retirees who’ve had their fill of hidden fees. Towns like Portsmouth charm with waterfront taverns and colonial architecture that practically begs for sunset photos. The Lakes Region, with its crystal-clear waters, offers boating, fishing, and lakeside reading spots galore. In the Monadnock Region, small towns host artisan fairs and farmers’ markets that turn local produce into mouthwatering adventures.
Fall brings fiery foliage that rivals any New England neighbor—and fewer crowds to compete with your scenic hikes. Mount Washington’s tram ride is bucket-list material, giving panoramic views that remind you retirement can still feel epic. Winters get snowy, sure, but that just means glacier-like trails for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing under starlit skies. Property values here are often kinder on your wallet compared to coastal enclaves, letting you snag a charming cottage or modern condo without stretching your budget. Quaint main streets buzz with community events that make neighbors more like friends. Between tax savings and small-town warmth, New Hampshire crafts a retirement chapter that balances financial savvy with scenic serenity.
This article is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial advice. Consult a financial professional before making investment or other financial decisions. The author and publisher make no warranties of any kind.
