You might love the Jersey Shore. You might have family there. But if you are thinking about making New Jersey your permanent retirement home, there is a new report worth reading before you sign anything.
In 2025, the senior-living research company Seniorly ranked all 50 states based on factors that matter most to retirees — cost of living, access to healthcare, and recreational opportunities. When the numbers came in, New Jersey landed at the very bottom of the list.
Why New Jersey Ranked Last
Seniorly called New Jersey “one of the least affordable states in the country.” The state’s top income tax rate sits at 10.75 percent. Retirees with significant savings or investment income could find themselves in that bracket.
Cost is not the only concern. Seniorly also flagged poor access to arts and recreational activities for seniors — a real quality-of-life issue for anyone hoping to stay active and engaged in their community.
Then there is the health picture. The report found that 65 percent of seniors living in New Jersey have more than three chronic conditions. That kind of statistic points to two problems at once. First, the senior population itself may be dealing with more health challenges. Second, when that many people need specialists and ongoing care, competition for healthcare resources goes up.
Four Other States That Also Missed the Mark
New Jersey was not alone at the bottom. Seniorly also rated these states poorly for retirees:
- Alabama
- Kansas
- Georgia
- Oklahoma
These states tend to be more affordable than New Jersey. But Seniorly pointed to the overall health of their senior populations as a concern. The report also cited below-average spending on long-term care in these states, which may mean assisted living and care facilities are less well-equipped or up to date than those in states that invest more in this area.
The Bottom Line for Retirement Planning
None of this means New Jersey is without its charms. The shore towns are beautiful, and for those who land a home near the water, there is no shortage of outdoor recreation. Plenty of people retire there happily every year.
But if you are still in the planning stage, these rankings are worth factoring in. Affordability, healthcare access, and the quality of long-term care facilities are exactly the kinds of things that can sneak up on you years down the road — when it is much harder to make a change.
Knowing this now gives you the chance to make a choice you will feel good about for years to come.