Relying solely on Social Security can make retirement challenging—especially depending on where you live. While the average Social Security check in 2025 is around $1,900 per month, that amount doesn’t stretch equally across the U.S.
High taxes, steep housing costs, and expensive healthcare can quickly eat away at a fixed income. If Social Security is your only source of income, these are the states you may want to avoid.
California
California offers sunshine and scenic beauty, but it comes with one of the highest costs of living in the country. Housing prices, gas, and everyday expenses are well above the national average. While Social Security benefits aren’t taxed at the state level, high overall expenses can make life unaffordable for retirees living on a tight budget.
New York
New York’s housing and utility costs—especially in cities like New York City and Long Island—can be overwhelming. Even upstate, property taxes are among the highest in the nation. Although the state doesn’t tax Social Security benefits, other financial pressures can stretch your budget thin.
Massachusetts
Massachusetts has excellent healthcare but at a price. High living costs, particularly in the Boston metro area, combined with expensive long-term care and housing, make it tough for retirees to live solely on Social Security.
Connecticut
Connecticut taxes a portion of Social Security benefits for those above certain income thresholds and has some of the highest property taxes in the U.S. The overall cost of living is well above average, making it a difficult place for retirees with limited income.
Maryland
While Maryland has recently taken steps to reduce taxes on retirement income, it still partially taxes Social Security for higher-income retirees. Additionally, housing and healthcare costs can be steep, especially near D.C.
New Jersey
New Jersey combines high property taxes with a generally high cost of living. While it doesn’t tax Social Security benefits, other retirement income may be taxed, and seniors can struggle with housing costs, even in suburban or rural areas.
Washington
Washington doesn’t have a state income tax, which sounds appealing, but its high sales taxes and surging housing prices can be problematic. Cities like Seattle have rent and home prices that far exceed what a fixed income can support.
Hawaii
Hawaii is paradise—but it’s an expensive one. From food and utilities to healthcare and rent, costs are high across the board. For retirees relying on Social Security alone, making ends meet can be extremely difficult without additional support or savings.
Colorado
Though beautiful and health-conscious, Colorado’s rising housing costs and increasing property taxes can burden retirees. The state does offer some tax breaks on retirement income, but healthcare and transportation costs are also concerns.
Illinois
Illinois taxes a wide range of income but currently excludes Social Security. However, it has high property taxes, and the state’s financial instability creates uncertainty around future tax policies. Retirees on a fixed income may struggle with the state’s overall affordability.
