North Dakota Scores Well For Safest States for Seniors to Retire

As violent crime against seniors has surged by 331% over the past decade, many Baby Boomers are rethinking where to spend their retirement years, according to a recent analysis by Seniorly. With the U.S. population aging rapidly, ensuring the safety and well-being of older adults has become more important than ever. Seniorly’s data highlights that factors such as crime rates, healthcare access, and infrastructure play a crucial role in determining the quality of life for seniors when choosing a retirement destination.

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Why Safety Matters for Seniors

In today’s world, seniors can no longer rely solely on proximity to family for their support and safety. With families increasingly spread across the country, selecting a community that prioritizes safety provides much-needed peace of mind for loved ones. A recent analysis by Seniorly used federal data to determine the safest states for seniors by evaluating seven key categories: public safety, healthcare access, falls, road safety, scams, violent crimes, and property crimes.

The Numbers Behind Senior Safety

The statistics are sobering. In 2023 alone, 41,400 seniors died from falls, 8,500 were involved in deadly car crashes, and seniors lost a record $3.4 billion to scams. Beyond these risks, infrastructure plays a critical role. Across the U.S., there are approximately 65,000 police and sheriff’s patrol officers and an average of 15.4 hospital beds per 1,000 Medicare-enrolled seniors—both essential for senior safety and well-being.

Top and Bottom States for Retirement Safety

New Jersey claimed the top spot as the safest state for seniors. With low rates of violent crime, fatal falls, and car accidents, coupled with a strong police presence, the Garden State offers a secure environment for older adults. The East Coast dominated the top 10 list, with states like New York, Pennsylvania, and Connecticut scoring high marks for safety and healthcare access.

In contrast, western states made up most of the bottom 10, including Colorado, Nevada, and New Mexico. While California ranked a surprising 15th overall, Montana placed 42nd, and South Dakota and Minnesota fell in the middle, ranking 38th and 31st, respectively. North Dakota performed impressively, ranking 11th overall.

Making Informed Choices

As seniors plan for retirement, understanding these dynamics can help them make informed decisions. The safest states combine low crime rates, accessible healthcare, and public services that keep residents protected. While no location is perfect, prioritizing safety can ensure a secure and enjoyable retirement.

Senior safety is more than a statistic—it’s a lifeline for millions of Americans looking to make the most of their golden years.