Iowa has been ranked as the best state to retire due to its reasonable cost of living, affordable but high quality healthcare, and low crime levels. The Hawkeye state overtook historic retirement paradise Florida, which came out on top last year. Meanwhile, Alaska has been labeled as the worst state for Americans to spend their later years. All 50 states were ranked on affordability, overall well-being, quality and cost of healthcare, weather and crime. Following Iowa, Delaware, West Virginia, Missouri and Mississippi were ranked as the best states to retire, while New York, California, Washington, and Massachusetts rounded out the bottom five. According to data from real estate company Redfin, the average home price in Iowa is $239,000, well below the nationwide typical home price of $388,800. While the state lands near the middle of the pack when it comes to taxes, it topped the ranking for high-quality healthcare services and low healthcare costs. Plus, nearly 20% of the population in Iowa is aged 65 and older, making it easier for retirees to meet others of a similar age. While the weather in Iowa is colder than in Florida, the Hawkeye State, is the sixth cheapest place to live in the U.S.
