The Complete Guide to Retiring in Alabama
Alabama is one of the states with the highest percentage of retirees. Retirees love the affordable cost of living and the warmer climate. Plus, the state offers plenty of outdoor activities, such as golfing and fishing.
This article covers what Alabama offers retirees. We’ll also share important details about taxes and healthcare in the state to help you make an informed decision about whether or not you should retire in Alabama.
What to expect from retiring in Alabama
Retirees tend to enjoy the warmer climate of Alabama. Winters are typically mild, whereas summers can be hot and humid. The climate is milder on the coast, but there also tends to be more rainfall in this area.
If you enjoy spending time outside, Alabama has a lot of natural beauty to offer. Beaches line the Gulf Coast, offering water activities like kayaking, fishing, and boat tours. The northern portion of Alabama is lined with the Appalachian Mountains, providing a popular hiking destination. If you’re interested in geology, Alabama also has a diverse cave system to explore.
Retirees often enjoy the dose of Southern hospitality that Alabama provides. Live music is plentiful, including gospel, blues, and folklore sets. You can also enjoy local food like barbecue, seafood, and Southern comfort food, like shrimp and grits and fried chicken.
History lovers will know that Alabama played a key role in the Civil Rights Movement. If you’re interested in this period of history, you can check out The Legacy Museum & National Memorial for Peace and Justice. You can also visit the site of “Bloody Sunday” or the Freedom Rides Museum.
Pros and cons of retiring in Alabama
Above, we gave you a snapshot of what retiring in Alabama might look like. Now, let’s explore some more specific pros and cons for retirees.
Pros:
Winters in Alabama are mild. The Gulf Coast, especially, has a mild winter, with average temperatures in the 50s and little to no snowfall.
Compared to other states, Alabama is more affordable. The average cost of living across the state is 12% lower than the national average. Housing also tends to be more affordable.
There are significant tax savings that can come with living in Alabama, such as no state taxes on Social Security benefits or pension income. Alabama also has one of the lowest property tax rates in the country.
Alabama’s Gulf Coast gives you access to the beach and water activities, like boating and fishing.
Cons:
Summers are hot and humid, which can be annoying for anyone, but can be dangerous for older adults. Bugs can also be a nuisance!
Alabama has a healthcare shortage. This may mean that you have to travel further to visit your doctor or get medical tests and treatments.
If you don’t drive and choose to live in a smaller city, transportation can be difficult. While there’s public transit in the major cities, it’s less accessible in smaller towns.
How retirement taxes work in Alabama
In addition to great outdoor activities, Alabama’s low state taxes and cost of living make it an affordable option for retirees. Here are some more details about how different taxes work for seniors living in Alabama.
No Social Security tax: If you receive Social Security benefits, then you’ll be happy to know that Alabama does not tax this income.
Retirement income taxes: For Alabama residents aged 65 and older, most retirement income is not taxed. This includes government pensions.
No state property taxes: If you are over the age of 65, you are exempt from state property taxes in Alabama.
No state estate taxes: Alabama has no state estate or inheritance taxes. However, you’ll still need to pay the federal estate tax.
Low property taxes: Alabama has a low effective property tax rate of 0.36%. The median annual property tax payment is $701.
Is it expensive to live in Alabama?
Alabama is generally an affordable place to live. The cost of living is 12% lower than the national average. Housing costs are around 30% lower than the national average, and rent is 27% lower. Home prices average at $221,490, and the average rent is $1,042 per month. In general, housing located inland is more affordable, while housing near the coast is more expensive. Essentials, like food and clothing are also less expensive in Alabama.
According to the US News and World Report Rankings, Alabama ranks #10 in cost of living and #4 in housing affordability.
How does retiring in Alabama compare to Georgia or Florida?
When considering retirement in the Southeast, Alabama, Florida, and Georgia each offer distinct advantages and trade-offs.
Alabama stands out for its affordable cost of living and low property taxes, making it an attractive option for retirees on a budget. The state also offers some tax exclusions for seniors. However, while healthcare is relatively affordable, access can be limited, particularly in rural areas, which is an important factor to consider when planning your retirement.
Florida, on the other hand, is known for having no state income tax, offering the most generous tax breaks for retirees among the three states. This makes retiring in Florida especially appealing for those with retirement income streams like pensions or investments. However, Florida comes with a higher cost of living and a greater risk of hurricanes, which may impact both safety and insurance costs.
Georgia has a moderate cost of living and a state income tax, though it does offer certain retirement income exemptions. Like Alabama, Georgia experiences mild winters and hot summers, but without the frequent hurricanes seen in Florida.
Ultimately, the best retirement destination will depend on your personal priorities—whether that’s tax savings, healthcare access, climate, or cost of living. Be sure to evaluate what matters most to you before making your decision.
Best places to retire in Alabama
Alabama is home to several popular cities that work for all budgets. If you have a bigger retirement budget, consider:
Birmingham: Birmingham is a bigger city. It has historical sites, museums, and fun outdoor activities. You can visit botanical gardens too.
Gulf Shores: A popular retirement destination with a strong community and access to outdoor activities.
Fairhope: Filled with small-town charm, Fairhope offers views of Mobile Bay. There’s access to plenty of cultural activities, including art centers and historical sites.
Those who are seeking affordability may consider:
Huntsville: Huntsville is affordable and offers many amenities. You can enjoy golf courses, nature trails, and shopping. Plus, there are cultural attractions to explore.
Auburn: A university town that offers a mix of small-town feel with access to larger amenities like golf courses and state parks.
Foley: A small town with a low cost of living that provides access to the beach, golfing, and fishing. This town also hosts several festivals throughout the year.
Senior health in Alabama
Alabama is ranked 44th in America’s Health Rankings’ Senior Report. Seniors say that it's difficult to access healthcare services, including specialists. This is especially true for seniors living in rural Alabama. If you need access to healthcare, particularly specialists, Alabama may not be the best place for you to move.
Medicare in Alabama
There are 1.1 million Medicare beneficiaries in Alabama, which makes up about 21% of Alabama’s population. This is higher than the national average. You can qualify for Medicare at age 65, or sooner if you have a disability. Once you enroll in Original Medicare, you can choose to stay on Original Medicare or switch to a Medicare Advantage plan. In Alabama, 63% of Medicare beneficiaries have chosen to enroll in one of the Alabama Medicare Advantage plans. Meanwhile, 37% have stayed on Original Medicare.
If you want to learn more about Medicare in Alabama, you can speak with a Chapter Medicare Advisor. Call us at (855) 900-2427 or schedule a free consultation.
Retiring in Alabama
Alabama offers an affordable lifestyle with access to outdoor activities. If you’re looking for access to the beach with a more reasonable cost of living, Alabama might be a good choice for your retirement. If you have a chronic condition that puts you at a higher risk of overheating or requires you to see specialists, you may want to consider a state that’s a better fit for your physical health.