Jordan Rosenfeld

Retirement and Financial Planners: I'm writing about which states offer retirees the strongest combination of affordability, tax treatment and livability in 2026, especially as inflation, healthcare costs and taxes continue to shape retirement decisions. We’re seeking planner insight on how retirees can realistically stretch savings further without sacrificing quality of life. You MUST be a financial or retirement planner/advisor, and be US based. 1. Please name the top 3-5 states you feel are best for retirees to stretch their savings, and then evaluate them via the following criteria (i.e., give me at least a few of these factors to back you up or other factors per your discretion). -State tax policy impact on Social Security, pensions and retirement account withdrawals -ability to live a good quality of life/affordable amenities -healthcare costs and access -housing costs and property taxes -climate and weather-related risk factors as they relate to cost of living 2. How should retirees balance pure cost savings with proximity to family, amenities and medical care? 3. What mistakes do retirees most often make when choosing a state to stretch their savings?

I'm examining U.S. states where households can dramatically reduce their cost of living compared to the national average, often through lower housing, taxes and everyday expenses. I'm also looking to understand the specific conditions under which those savings truly materialize, including scenarios where the “cut in half” claim might come with a "catch" (e.g. you have to be moving from a high cost-of-living state; only if you don't buy a home; only if xyz). Answers will only be used if you give at least a few factors for why a state can be significantly cheaper and one "catch." Thank you! Interview Questions (Or provide your own commentary): 1. What are the biggest cost drivers that make certain states dramatically cheaper than the national average? 2. How much of the savings typically comes from housing costs versus everyday expenses like utilities, insurance and transportation? 3. What structural factors keep living costs low in these states long-term rather than just temporarily? 4. Why do some states remain inexpensive even as housing costs have risen nationally? 5. How does population density or housing supply influence affordability in these lower-cost states? 6. In practical terms, who sees the biggest financial benefit from moving to one of these states? 7. What expenses tend to surprise people the most after they move, even in an otherwise low-cost state? 8. How do wages or income opportunities interact with lower costs for people who still need to work? 9. What assumptions do people often make about “cheap” states that don’t always hold up in real life?