Retirement Location Calculator
Top Retirement Destinations Compared
Cost of living, taxes, and quality factors for popular retirement cities
| City | COL Index | State Income Tax | Avg Home Price | Healthcare Score | Climate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sarasota, FL | 108 | None | $420K | Good | Warm/humid |
| Scottsdale, AZ | 118 | 2.5% flat | $620K | Excellent | Hot/dry |
| Asheville, NC | 105 | 4.5% | $380K | Good | Mild 4-season |
| San Antonio, TX | 88 | None | $280K | Good | Warm |
| Charleston, SC | 112 | 6.5% | $430K | Good | Mild/warm |
| Las Vegas, NV | 102 | None | $380K | Fair | Hot/dry |
| Boise, ID | 108 | 5.8% | $440K | Good | 4-season |
| Knoxville, TN | 86 | None | $310K | Fair | Mild 4-season |
| Tucson, AZ | 94 | 2.5% flat | $300K | Good | Hot/dry |
| Fort Myers, FL | 100 | None | $350K | Good | Warm/humid |
How We Calculate This
This retirement location calculator uses established formulas and industry-standard data to provide accurate estimates.
- Enter your specific values into the calculator fields above
- Our algorithm applies the relevant formulas using your inputs
- Results are calculated instantly in your browser — nothing is sent to a server
- Review the detailed breakdown to understand how each factor affects your result
These calculations are estimates based on standard formulas. For critical decisions, always consult a qualified professional.
How to Convert Oven Recipes to Air Fryer
This calculator compares two retirement locations by estimating annual living costs including housing, food, healthcare, utilities, and state taxes on retirement income.
The basic rule:
- Annual cost is estimated using the city's cost-of-living index applied to a baseline retirement budget
- State taxes on retirement income vary widely — some states exempt Social Security and/or pension income
- Healthcare access scores factor in doctors per capita, hospital proximity, and Medicare Advantage plan availability
- Savings longevity = total savings / (annual expenses - annual income), assuming 4% annual withdrawal rate
- Climate match scores are assigned based on your stated preference
This is a planning tool for comparison purposes. Individual costs vary based on lifestyle, health needs, housing choices, and personal spending patterns. Visit prospective locations and consult a financial advisor before making retirement relocation decisions.
When Would You Use This Calculator?
This retirement location calculator is designed for anyone who needs quick, reliable estimates without complex spreadsheets or professional consultations.
- When you need a quick estimate before committing to a purchase or project
- When comparing different options or scenarios side by side
- When planning a budget and need to understand potential costs
- When you want to verify a quote or estimate you've received from a professional
- When teaching or learning about the concepts behind these calculations
Frequently Asked Questions
What states don't tax retirement income?
States with no income tax (and thus no retirement income tax): Alaska, Florida, Nevada, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Washington, Wyoming. Additional states that exempt most retirement income: Illinois, Iowa, Mississippi, Pennsylvania. Many other states offer partial exemptions for Social Security and pensions.
What is the cheapest place to retire in the US?
The cheapest major retirement destinations include San Antonio TX, Knoxville TN, Tucson AZ, Savannah GA, and Fort Myers FL. These combine low housing costs, no or low state income tax, reasonable healthcare, and retiree-friendly amenities. Small towns in the South and Midwest can be even cheaper.
How much do I need to retire comfortably?
The general guideline is 25x your annual expenses (the 4% rule). If you need $50,000/year, aim for $1.25 million. In low-cost areas, you might need only $35,000-40,000/year ($875K-$1M), while high-cost areas might require $80,000-100,000+/year ($2M-$2.5M+). Social Security and pensions reduce the savings needed.
Should I consider property taxes when choosing a retirement location?
Absolutely. Property tax rates vary from 0.3% (Hawaii) to 2.2% (New Jersey) of assessed value. On a $400,000 home, that's $1,200 vs $8,800/year. Many states offer homestead exemptions or senior freezes that can reduce property taxes significantly for retirees.
Is healthcare access important for retirement location?
Critical. Access to Medicare-accepting doctors, specialists, and hospitals varies significantly by location. University towns and mid-size cities often have excellent healthcare. Rural areas may require long drives for specialist care. Check Medicare Advantage plan availability and ratings in prospective locations.