The baby boomers have become the retirement boomers, and the numbers keep rising.
Nearly 10,000 people turn 65 every day in the United States, and the U.S. Census Bureau estimates there will be 78 million people at or older than retirement age by 2035.
After ending their careers, many thousands of these folks are ready to pack it up and move elsewhere, often to a different state.
In its latest National Movers Study, United Van Lines measured the states that saw the largest inbound migration from people who cited retirement as their main reason for moving there.
Following are the states people most often sought for retirement in 2022.
Alabama
Inbound movers who cited retirement as their top reason for moving to this state: 29.06%
WalletHub named the “Heart of Dixie” as most affordable on its rankings of the best states to retire in for 2023, using such metrics as cost of living, tax-friendliness and cost of in-home services. WalletHub found that Alabama has the lowest adjusted cost of living in the nation.
West Virginia
Inbound movers who cited retirement as their top reason for moving to this state: 33.33%
The Mountain State had the ninth-lowest cost of living in the U.S in 2022, according to the Missouri Economic Research and Information Center.
South Dakota
Inbound movers who cited retirement as their top reason for moving to this state: 33.33%
The Mount Rushmore State is one of the most tax-friendly states in the nation. Social Security, pensions and other retirement income are not taxed, and sales tax is low.
New Mexico
Inbound movers who cited retirement as their top reason for moving to this state: 33.33%
There’s a vast array of things to explore in The Land of Enchantment for retirees — ghost towns, Native American culture, museums, outdoor recreation and much more.
The state has also the 19th-lowest cost of living in the nation, according to the Missouri Economic Research and Information Center.
Arizona
Inbound movers who cited retirement as their top reason for moving to this state: 34.46%
If you want hot and dry, this is your spot. There are more than 300 days a year of sun, and winter temperatures can get into the upper 60s in Phoenix and Tucson.
GoBankingRates.com has also identified four Arizona cities where you can live more cheaply than the national average:
- Phoenix
- Tucson
- Glendale
- Mesa
Maine
Inbound movers who cited retirement as their top reason for moving to this state: 35.37%
More than 21% of this state’s population is aged 65 and older — the largest percentage in the nation. This legion of seniors is able to enjoy stunning spots in this northeastern part of the country, including beaches, lakes and lighthouses.
Florida
Inbound movers who cited retirement as their top reason for moving to this state: 37.64%
OK, the Sunshine State is the epitome of retirement locations, but let’s look at the reasons.
There are hundreds of retirement communities, which can cater to any retiree’s needs, whether that be recreational, independent living or more assisted living. There’s lots of sun — in the nickname — and beaches.
And then there’s all the golf. There are estimated to be more than 1,200 courses.
South Carolina
Inbound movers who cited retirement as their top reason for moving to this state: 38.69%
The Palmetto State has at least 150 retirement communities, and thousands of seniors have retired to the Myrtle Beach area, Charleston, Mount Pleasant and Hilton Head Island, drawn by big-city amenities and the myriad recreational opportunities.
Kiplinger also ranked South Carolina the sixth-most tax-friendly state in the U.S. for retirees.
Delaware
Inbound movers who cited retirement as their top reason for moving to this state: 39.58%
Kiplinger ranked The First State as the most tax-friendly state in the U.S. for retirees, thanks to having no sales tax, low property taxes, and no death taxes.
Property taxes are also so low that Kiplinger estimates a couple would pay only $1,866 per year on a $350,000 home.
Wyoming
Inbound movers who cited retirement as their top reason for moving to this state: 42.31%
Retirees moving to The Equality State will pay among the lowest property taxes in the nation, and the Tax Foundation ranked the state No. 1 in its State Business Tax Climate Index.
This state, which abounds with amazing recreational opportunities, also has one of the lowest crime rates in the U.S.