10 States Where You Can Live on Social Security Alone

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A new Realtor.com study has identified 10 states where retirees can cover their living expenses solely with Social Security benefits, as long as they are mortgage-free. Delaware tops the list, with a monthly surplus of $147 after housing and other costs are covered by the average Social Security check. Other states where this is possible include Indiana, Arizona, Utah, and South Carolina.

Why it matters

With nearly 22 million Americans relying solely on Social Security for retirement income, understanding where it's possible to live on those benefits alone is crucial information. The study highlights the importance of housing costs in determining retirement affordability, and may prompt some retirees to consider relocating to more affordable areas of the country.

The details

The Realtor.com study looked at the median monthly Social Security benefit, average monthly housing expenses, and total monthly expenses for retirees in each state. It found that only 10 states had a monthly surplus after all costs were covered by the average Social Security check, with Delaware leading the way at $147 per month. Other states where this was possible include Indiana ($116 surplus), Arizona ($102 surplus), Utah ($74 surplus), and South Carolina ($69 surplus).

• The Realtor.com study was published on February 24, 2026.

What’s next

The study highlights the importance for retirees to carefully consider housing costs and potentially relocate to more affordable areas of the country if they are solely relying on Social Security benefits.