12. Illinois
Cost of living: 4 percent below U.S. average
Population: 12.9 million
Best city: Leland Grove
PRO: Illinois has been in financial decline for a while now, and although this does mean instability in some ways, it also means that living costs are lower than the national average, making it more affordable. Leland Grove was ranked as the best place to retire in Illinois by Niche.
Illinois
CON: However, the fragility of its’ fiscal standing has put the state in the second-to-last place in the ranking of fiscal stability. All that means that tax breaks on an assortment of retirement incomes are not secure, as well as high sales taxes.
11. Washington
Cost of living: 21 percent above U.S. average
Population: 7.1 million
Best city: Vancouver
PRO: Washington is certainly not one of the cheapest places to live in the U.S., but those who fancy the Pacific Northwest lifestyle at lower costs could head for Vancouver, where it is more affordable for retirees as well as a welcome lack of state income tax.
Washington
CON: Although less than California and Hawaii, the living costs in this state are still 21 percent higher than the national average which may serve as a problem for some seniors. That being said, the average income for those over 65 is about $55K, which could be of some help.
