20. California
Cost of living: 52 percent above the U.S. average
Population: 39.56 million (as of 2018, U.S. Census Bureau)
Best city: Beverly Hills, says Yahoo! Finance (if you can afford it!)
PRO: There is pretty much a consensus in regards to California’s natural beauty. This state is rich in the diversity of the surrounding nature; there are lush forests, some of the country’s largest natural parks, beaches, deserts, and a whole lot more. California also includes a number of big cities for those who like the fast pace of city life.
California
CON: California is second place, after Hawaii, in terms of high living costs. It looks like if you want good weather you have to pay for it! According to the U.S. Census Bureau, 19 percent of the population in California lives under the poverty line.
19. New York
Cost of living: 22 percent above U.S. average
Population: 19.54 million (as of 2018, says U.S. Census Bureau)
Best city: Great Neck, says Yahoo! Finance
PRO: Living in New York can be very convenient for retirees. Always plenty to do, you can walk all over the city, delivery services are abundant, and you never have to go too far for your necessities, and all that in a place where small apartments are the norm which are easiest to manage.
New York
CON: Even though it is a fun and lively city that is pretty much walkable, New York State is probably most recommended for retirees who are comfortable financially. The state is not retiree-tax-friendly, and many over 65s suffer high poverty rates in this state.
