Map Shows States Where Retirees Can Live On Social Security Alone

For many Americans, Social Security is a foundational source of retirement income. But can it cover basic living expenses on its own? Recent research suggests that the answer is “yes” — but only in a handful of states. Cost of living, especially housing, plays a major role in whether retirees can get by on Social Security alone.

Key Findings

A new analysis by Realtor.com compares median Social Security benefits against the Elder Economic Security Standard Index, which measures basic living costs for older adults.
The result: only 10 states currently offer a situation in which Social Security benefits alone can cover essential costs — assuming mortgage-free homeownership.
In most other states, retirees face annual shortfalls. On average, the gap is about $2,762 a year, or roughly $230 a month, even with no mortgage.

States Where It Works

Here are the states where retirees (with no mortgage) are estimated to make ends meet on Social Security alone:

State	Estimated Surplus (Annual)	Notes / Strengths
Delaware	+ $1,764	Among the highest surpluses
Indiana	+ $1,392	Lower housing costs help
Arizona	+ $1,224	Climate + moderate expenses
Utah	+ $888	Balanced cost structure
South Carolina	+ $828	Affordable housing + utilities
West Virginia	+ $660	Low cost of living overall
Alabama	+ $576	Lower taxes and housing
Nevada	+ $432	No state income tax (some advantages)
Tennessee	+ $156	Near the margin
Michigan	+ $132	Just enough in favorable cases

Many of these “surplus” states benefit from relatively low housing costs, modest property taxes, and lower utilities or home-ownership expenses.

States with the Largest Deficits

In contrast, some states show steep shortfalls, meaning retirees must rely on additional sources (savings, pensions, part-time income) to cover basic living:

Vermont: − $8,088
New Jersey: − $7,512
Massachusetts: − $7,345
New York: − $7,248
New Hampshire: − $6,564

In these states, high property taxes, insurance, and maintenance costs in addition to utility burdens push living costs well beyond what Social Security provides.

Why the Difference? Housing Is the Game Changer

The primary variable making or breaking whether Social Security can cover costs is housing expense (taxes, insurance, utilities, repairs).
While other expenses like food, health care, and transportation vary, none have nearly as much variation across states as housing does.
In the “surplus” states, average housing costs (for mortgage-free homes) tend to hover around $500-$550 a month; in deficit states they often exceed $900+.

Caveats & Important Notes

These estimates assume no mortgage. If a retiree is still paying off a home loan, the numbers often shift dramatically.
Within states, costs can vary greatly by city, county, or neighborhood — rural areas tend to be cheaper, metropolitan ones more costly.
Unexpected costs (e.g. medical emergencies, home repairs) may still require additional income or savings beyond Social Security.
The studies use averages and indices; individual situations (age, health status, other income) will change outcomes.

What This Means for Retirees

Location matters a lot — choosing to retire in one of those 10 favorable states (especially with a paid-off home) can make a big financial difference.
For those in high-cost states, it’s often unrealistic to live solely on Social Security — supplemental income or savings are likely essential.
Planning ahead, considering relocation, and understanding local housing/utility costs are critical steps for retirement security.