8. Pennsylvania

With a cost of living below the national average, a relatively low state income tax rate compared to other states in the Northeast, and no tax on retirement income, Pennsylvania is definitely a suitable candidate for one of the best places to spend your retirement years.

History buffs will enjoy the various historic sites and buildings dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries. If you love spending time in nature, there are over 6,700 miles of trails, 86,000 miles of streams and rivers, 124 free state parks, and 22 ski resorts. Whether you like to bike, hike, or ski, you can do any of that to your heart’s content in Pennsylvania.

And if you’ve ever wanted to explore the stunning Appalachian Trail, that’s here too! Plus, the state’s cities are home to world-class art, dining, museums, breweries, and more pro sports teams than you can count. Well, there isn’t an infinite number of them, but you get the point.

If you want to spend your retirement years in a big city, then Pittsburgh or Philadelphia should be exactly what you need. There are some cons to consider before moving to Pennsylvania, though.

The state experiences bitter winters with lots of snow and is also known for having awful traffic in general—two reasons why driving here can be challenging. There are also extra taxes to be aware of. For example, school districts and municipalities can levy a local Earned Income Tax (EIT) on residents.

According to retirement experts, the best places to retire in Pennsylvania are Plains, West Brunswick Township, and Penn Wynne.