21. Sioux Falls, South Dakota
| Avg. 1BR Rent ~$970/mo |
SS Covers Rent? ✅ Yes |
SS Tax? No SS Tax |
State S. Dakota |
Sioux Falls is the financial standout among larger Midwest cities in 2026. South Dakota has no state income tax of any kind — not on Social Security, not on pensions, not on investment income — making it one of the most tax-friendly states for retirees in the entire country. Average 1-bedroom rents run around $970 per month, leaving the typical Social Security recipient with meaningful room in their budget.
The city itself is more lively than its plains setting might suggest. Falls Park — with its dramatic waterfalls in the heart of the city — is a spectacular and entirely free attraction. The Washington Pavilion of Arts and Science, active riverfront trails, and a growing restaurant and craft brewery scene give retirees a full lifestyle at low cost.
Healthcare is one of Sioux Falls’ strongest assets: Sanford Health and Avera Health are both major regional health systems with nationally recognized senior care programs. For tax-conscious retirees who want to maximize every dollar of Social Security income, South Dakota’s zero-tax environment combined with Sioux Falls’ sub-$1,000 rents make this one of the most financially efficient retirement locations in the country.
We live in Las Vegas and need a place that includes utilities and cable. Me and my husband make $38,000 a year and now pay $1000 a month just making it. We need to be out of here by January 2027.
I don’t believe you’ll find any place that pays for cable. Some places pay for water but not gas and electric.
Is Mazatlan Mexico a good option???
I’m in Lakeport Ca I can’t recommend it if you rent good luck finding a good honest landlord. Gas is expensive 5.79 a gallon. Not much to do and some people are strange just like most places I guess. I’m trying to get out asap but where? Please advise 🙏.
I can’t even read the article! All I see are a bunch of ads and links that go to more ads. I see Toledo and that’s it. So where’s the other 24?!
Thank u for this list. I am 59 and want to retire at 62. Can you please send me an updated list in 2 years? Thank you!
Idaho, western states?
You don’t need cable. Just get WI-FI and you can buy a Super Box for about $300.00. This device is capable of streaming tv regular channels, movies and sports. It seems to me that with 38000 a year minus 12000 for rent.-leaving you about 26000 for all other expenses, you should be able to make it. Unless you are gambling your $$ away!