Top 10 states where seniors can thrive working past retirement age

Unlock a fresh perspective on business, where insightful strategy meets an unexpected spark of genius
Table of Contents
Are you stressed about money? A recent survey says most Americans are. It turns out, many folks are more afraid of running out of cash than, well, you know.
Why the worry? High prices, Social Security concerns, and taxes are big factors. And the amount we think we need to retire comfortably? A whopping $1. 26 million! Yikes.
The truth? Most of us haven’t saved nearly that much. What’s the solution?
Seniors to the Rescue: Working Past Retirement
More seniors than ever are choosing to work. It’s not just about the money, though. Many enjoy staying active and engaged. A record 11. 2 million people over 65 are working right now. And that number is expected to climb.
But here’s the thing: Some states are way better for working seniors than others. Where can older workers thrive? Let’s dive in.
Top 10 States Where Seniors Can Thrive on the Job
Seniorly did some digging. They looked at things like income, taxes, and remote work options. They even considered age discrimination. The result? A list of the best states for seniors who want to keep working.
Ready to find out which states made the cut?
1. Washington: The Evergreen State of Opportunity
Washington takes the top spot! Why? No state income tax is a big plus. Senior households earn a good income. New businesses are booming there, too. And lots of seniors work from home. Sounds pretty good, right?
Key Stats:
- Age Discrimination Complaints: 89 per 100k
- Labor Force Participation (60+): 29%
- Median Household Income (65+): $63,963
- Remote Workers (65+): 22. 4%
- Top Personal Income Tax Rate: 0%
- Annual Business Growth Rate: 88. 6%
2. New Hampshire: Live Free and Work Hard
New Hampshire is another great choice. Like Washington, it has no state income tax. It has a high rate of senior labor force participation. A solid option for working seniors.
Key Stats:
- Age Discrimination Complaints: 18 per 100k
- Labor Force Participation (60+): 35. 9%
- Median Household Income (65+): $63,279
- Remote Workers (65+): 20. 2%
- Top Personal Income Tax Rate: 0%
- Annual Business Growth Rate: -0. 2%
3. Alaska: The Last Frontier. .. for Your Career?
Alaska might surprise you. It also has no state income tax. And senior households earn a high median income. Think you can handle the cold? It could be a great place to keep working.
Key Stats:
- Age Discrimination Complaints: 66 per 100k
- Labor Force Participation (60+): 31. 6%
- Median Household Income (65+): $67,208
- Remote Workers (65+): 15. 2%
- Top Personal Income Tax Rate: 0%
- Annual Business Growth Rate: 4. 9%
4. Maryland: A Mid-Atlantic Gem
Maryland offers a high median household income for seniors. A good percentage of seniors are still in the workforce. Something to consider.
Key Stats:
- Age Discrimination Complaints: 107 per 100k
- Labor Force Participation (60+): 35. 4%
- Median Household Income (65+): $72,118
- Remote Workers (65+): 19. 4%
- Top Personal Income Tax Rate: 5. 75%
- Annual Business Growth Rate: -2. 9%
5. Colorado: Rocky Mountain High. .. Employment?
Colorado boasts a high percentage of remote workers. Senior households earn a decent income. Beautiful scenery and job opportunities? Not bad.
Key Stats:
- Age Discrimination Complaints: 116 per 100k
- Labor Force Participation (60+): 32. 5%
- Median Household Income (65+): $64,210
- Remote Workers (65+): 23. 8%
- Top Personal Income Tax Rate: 4. 4%
- Annual Business Growth Rate: 3. 1%
6. Connecticut: A New England Option
Connecticut has a good rate of senior labor force participation. And the median household income for seniors is respectable. Something to think about.
Key Stats:
- Age Discrimination Complaints: 33 per 100k
- Labor Force Participation (60+): 34. 9%
- Median Household Income (65+): $66,407
- Remote Workers (65+): 17. 9%
- Top Personal Income Tax Rate: 6. 6%
- Annual Business Growth Rate: -0. 3%
7. Massachusetts: Education and Opportunity
Massachusetts has a high rate of senior labor force participation. Lots of opportunities for older workers. Maybe it’s time for a change of scenery?
Key Stats:
- Age Discrimination Complaints: 32 per 100k
- Labor Force Participation (60+): 35. 7%
- Median Household Income (65+): $63,240
- Remote Workers (65+): 17. 5%
- Top Personal Income Tax Rate: 5%
- Annual Business Growth Rate: -4. 4%
8. South Dakota: A Hidden Gem?
South Dakota might surprise you. It has no state income tax. A high percentage of seniors are still working. A budget-friendly option.
Key Stats:
- Age Discrimination Complaints: 55 per 100k
- Labor Force Participation (60+): 35. 5%
- Median Household Income (65+): $53,981
- Remote Workers (65+): 14. 5%
- Top Personal Income Tax Rate: 0%
- Annual Business Growth Rate: 1. 7%
9. Utah: The Beehive State of Activity
Utah has a decent median household income for seniors. A good portion of seniors work remotely. Could be a good fit.
Key Stats:
- Age Discrimination Complaints: 45 per 100k
- Labor Force Participation (60+): 32. 5%
- Median Household Income (65+): $67,374
- Remote Workers (65+): 18. 9%
- Top Personal Income Tax Rate: 4. 8%
- Annual Business Growth Rate: -10. 4%
10. Vermont: Small State, Big Opportunities?
Vermont rounds out the list. A good percentage of seniors are still in the workforce. And many work remotely. Worth a look.
Key Stats:
- Age Discrimination Complaints: 20 per 100k
- Labor Force Participation (60+): 34. 1%
- Median Household Income (65+): $55,201
- Remote Workers (65+): 22. 9%
- Top Personal Income Tax Rate: 8. 75%
- Annual Business Growth Rate: -1. 8%
What Does It All Mean?
Retirement can be scary. But working past retirement age can be a great option. Especially in the right state. Which state is right for you? Do your research and find out!