Even in retirement, taxes can be a big expense. But, it’s also an expense that could be avoided with some planning, as some states are friendlier than others when it comes to taxes.
Personal finance site Kiplinger created a list of the most tax-friendly states in the US for retirees, and considered factors like average property tax paid, income tax rate, whether or not the state had an estate or inheritance tax, and the sales tax across all 50 states. Wyoming came out on top, offering the most affordable taxes all around.
None of the states on the list tax Social Security income. Three states on the list — Wyoming, Nevada, and Florida — don’t have any income tax.
While it’s not possible to change federal taxes, these tax-friendly states could help retirees save on state taxes. Here are the nine best states for retirees wanting to save on their tax bills, along with each state’s income and property tax rates.
9. Georgia
The Peach State has nice weather most of the year and relatively low taxes, making it a friendly state for retirees.
Income taxes: 1% to 5.95%
Average property tax: $1,000 per $100,000 in home value
8. Florida
With no state income tax, Florida retirees will be able to keep more of their money.
Income taxes: none
Average property tax: $1,041 per $100,000 in home value
7. Mississippi
Mississippi residents have a big benefit when it comes to retirement: funds from IRAs, 401ks, and other retirement accounts aren’t taxed. Combine that with low property tax rates, and it’s easy to see why Mississippi is ideal for retirees.
Income taxes: 3% to 5%
Average property tax: $862 per $100,000 in home value
6. Tennessee
With both urban and rural settings and acres of nature, Tennessee is more than just good for tax savings. Affordable property taxes make it easy to own your own home in this state as well.
Income taxes: No income tax, 2% on interest and dividends
Average property tax: $768 per $100,000 in home value
5. South Carolina
Retirees wanting coastal living and tax savings might find that making a home in South Carolina is ideal. With low income taxes, affordable property taxes, and generous retirement income exclusions, this state’s nice weather is only part of the reason to move there.
Income taxes: 3% to 7%
Average property tax: $601 per $100,000 in home value
4. Alabama
Alabama residents will have low living costs and affordable taxes. Low income and property taxes will make it easy for retirees to make a home there.
Income taxes: 2% to 5%
Average property tax: $432 per $100,000 in home value
3. Delaware
With lots of shoreline and no sales tax, Delaware is ideal for retirees. While the state’s property taxes are slightly higher than some of the southern and western states on the list, it’s still fairly tax-friendly to live there.
Income taxes: 2.2% to 6.6%
Average property tax: $604 per $100,000 in home value
2. Nevada
This affordable western state has been attracting retirees in droves in the past few years, and it’s tax-friendliness might be why.
Income taxes: none
Average property tax: $693 per $100,000 in home value
1. Wyoming
Taxes in Wyoming are incredibly low across the board, from property to sales tax. This state doesn’t have any income tax, and there’s no estate or inheritance tax either. Throw in relatively affordable costs of living, and Wyoming might just be the ideal state for retirement.
Income taxes: none