Forget Florida and Arizona: 10 Warm Weather States Retirees Should Consider

When it comes to retirement, finding the perfect spot with the right climate is a top priority for many.

While Florida and Arizona are typically the most popular choices, there are several other states that offer warm weather and a host of benefits for retirees. Before making a move, it’s essential to visit and explore these states to find the perfect fit for your retirement dreams.

GOBankingRates lists 10 states that offer a blend of warm weather, financial benefits and diverse lifestyles, making them attractive alternatives to traditional retirement destinations. From lower cost of living to stunning natural landscapes, these states are worth considering if you’re looking for sunshine in your golden years.

With a warm climate year-round, Texas offers retirees mild winters and hot summers. The state boasts a diverse climate due to its large size, with more humid conditions in the east and dryer in the west.

Texas is known for its affordable cost of living and absence of state income tax, making it a financially savvy choice for retirees. Cities like Austin and San Antonio offer a mix of urban culture and rural serenity, catering to various lifestyles.

South Carolina enjoys a subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. Its coastal areas benefit from the ocean breeze, making the temperatures more bearable and less extreme than in Arizona.

Apart from the pleasant weather, South Carolina is appealing for its rich history and charming towns like Charleston and Myrtle Beach. The state also offers reasonable property taxes and a relatively low cost of living.

Georgia’s climate is predominantly warm and humid, with cooler temperatures in the northern parts of the state. Winters are mild, and summers are hot and long, perfect for retirees who enjoy being in nature.

Retirees flock to Georgia, especially cities like Savannah and Athens, due to its affordable living costs and tax benefits for seniors. The state also boasts a diverse landscape — from mountains to beaches — providing plenty of outdoor activities.

Most known for its desert climate, New Mexico offers warm days — complete with plenty of sunshine — and cool nights throughout the year.

New Mexico is not only appealing for its unique landscapes and rich cultural heritage but also for its low property taxes and affordable healthcare. The state’s arts and culture scene is vibrant in cities like Santa Fe and Albuquerque, offering a stimulating environment for interested retirees.

Unlike most states on this list, North Carolina has a varied climate, with the coastal plains experiencing mild winters and warm summers. The state’s weather is generally pleasant with four distinct seasons.

North Carolina attracts retirees with its mix of beautiful landscapes, from mountains to beaches to cities like Asheville and Charlotte. The cost of living is reasonable compared to the national average, and the state offers excellent healthcare facilities and recreational activities.

Retirees in Tennessee enjoy a temperate climate with warm summers and mild winters, especially in the central and western parts of the state.

While many know its music culture, particularly in cities like Nashville and Memphis, Tennessee also offers no state income tax and a low cost of living. The state’s natural beauty and outdoor activities are additional perks for retirees.

Nevada is mostly desert with hot summers and relatively cold winters. However, the state boasts a high number of sunny days per year, making those winters easier on retirees.

Nevada is not just about Las Vegas; it offers tax advantages like no state income tax and low property taxes. The state also provides diverse entertainment options and outdoor activities, catering to a vareity of different lifestyles.

Another state with temperate climate, Alabama has mild winters and hot summers, especially in the south. The Gulf Coast offers a pleasant breeze, helping moderate the temperatures.

Alabama cities like Birmingham and Mobile stand out for their affordable cost of living, low property taxes and senior-friendly tax policies. The state also boasts beautiful beaches and a relaxed lifestyle, making it an attractive option for retirees.

Mississippi experiences long, hot summers and short, mild winters. The state’s climate is considered humid subtropical, with plenty of sunshine.

Mississippi offers a low cost of living and is known for its hospitality and rich cultural heritage, particularly in places like Gulfport and Biloxi. The state also has favorable tax policies for retirees, including exemptions on retirement income.

Louisiana has a subtropical climate like Mississippi, complete with hot, humid summers and mild winters. The state is known for its unique ecosystems, including marshlands and bayous.

Many people are attracted to the vibrant food and music scenes in cities like New Orleans and Baton Rouge, providing retirees with a rich cultural experience. The cost of living in Louisiana is relatively low, and the state offers various tax exemptions for retirees.

Methodology: The data collection for this article involves a multi-step process, focusing on comprehensive research and data analysis to ensure accurate and helpful information for retirees. To determine the top 10 states, GOBankingRates conducted research on climate patterns in various states, prioritizing those with warm weather, mild winters and overall pleasant conditions, while excluding traditional retirement havens like Florida and Arizona to offer fresh alternatives. Data was gathered on economic factors like cost of living and tax policies, healthcare quality — with an emphasis on senior healthcare services — and lifestyle and culture, highlighting aspects specifically relevant to retirees.

Editor's note: This article was produced via automated technology and then fine-tuned and verified for accuracy by a member of GOBankingRates' editorial team.