For those over 60 navigating life solo, the journey can be both empowering and daunting. Many older Americans are finding themselves handling day-to-day needs alone—whether by choice or circumstance.

Financial demands, healthcare needs, and a desire for community can make choosing the right place to live a big decision. Some lesser-known regions are quietly standing out as the best for affordability and solo senior well-being.



According to a new report by Caring.com, a trio of central states—Arkansas, Missouri, and Kansas—earned the highest marks for supporting seniors who live on their own. The report evaluated each state based on over a dozen factors like healthcare costs, housing, community size, and transportation.

Arkansas earns the top spot for living alone comfortably​

With a score of 8.57 out of 10, Arkansas is now recognized as the best state for solo seniors. It boasts the lowest healthcare costs in the country, plus affordable housing and groceries. One-bedroom apartments average $701 monthly, and low property taxes and transportation costs further stretch a senior’s budget.

Arkansas also has strong availability of nursing facilities, ensuring care is accessible.

Missouri offers the most affordable rent and assisted living​

Coming in second with a score of 8.09, Missouri delivers big value for those living solo. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is just $677—making it the cheapest in the nation. For even greater savings, St. Louis rents are about $200 less than those in Kansas City.

Missouri also has 97.5 assisted living communities per 100,000 seniors and boasts the lowest average cost for assisted living—around $40,000 a year.

Kansas balances low costs with long-term care access​

Kansas earned a strong score of 7.98, ranking third overall. The state is praised for its low grocery prices and general cost of living. For those thinking ahead, Kansas has the second-highest number of nursing facilities in the nation, at 62.7 per 100,000 older adults.



Also read: Retire in Paradise: The Overseas Haven with Elite Healthcare, Low Taxes, and Luxury Living!

Other states stand out for specialized perks​

While the central states dominate the affordability rankings, several others offer appealing benefits:

• Maine has the highest share of seniors—about 22.3% of its population. That means greater chances of finding companionship and senior-centered activities.
• Iowa leads the country in availability of nursing facilities with 71 per 100,000 seniors—ensuring easier access to care.
• Alaska surprises with the highest proportion of assisted living communities at a stunning 698 per 100,000 seniors.
• West Virginia, according to GOBankingRates, is the most affordable state for a “comfortable” retirement, with yearly expenses averaging just $58,190.

Also read: Seniors swear by these surprising secrets to staying happy alone—Millennials can’t believe what they’ve been missing

The least affordable states for solo seniors​

The Caring.com heat map reveals the priciest places for older adults living alone. California, Massachusetts, and New York scored lowest in affordability due to high rent, healthcare, and food costs.

Alaska and Hawaii, while offering scenic beauty, are also among the costliest for retirees.

How long can your nest egg last in each state?​

According to a separate GOBankingRates report, $1.5 million in savings could last:

• 54 years in West Virginia
• 52 years in Kansas
• 51 years in Mississippi and Oklahoma
• 50 years in Alabama

Meanwhile, the same amount would deplete much faster in California, Massachusetts, New York, Alaska, and Hawaii.

What makes a star ideal for seniors living alone?​

The Caring.com ranking considered:

• Affordable housing, transportation, and groceries
• Easy access to quality healthcare
• Social and community opportunities
• Ample assisted living and nursing facilities
• Lower property taxes and cost of living

Read next: Where are seniors happiest in retirement? New study reveals the top states
Are you living on your own in one of these states? Thinking of relocating to stretch your budget? What helped you thrive solo? Drop your insights and questions in the comments—we’d love to hear your story.