These 10 States Offer the Highest Social Security Benefits

Retirees in these states can expect the largest average monthly Social Security checks.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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According to data from the Social Security Administration, retirees in 10 states receive the highest average monthly Social Security benefits. New Hampshire, Connecticut, and Maryland top the list, with estimated average monthly benefits of over $2,400 by 2026 after accounting for cost-of-living adjustments.

Why it matters

Social Security is a critical source of income for many retirees, so understanding which states offer the highest benefits can help seniors plan for a more comfortable retirement. The differences in average benefits across states are driven by factors like higher average incomes.

The details

The 10 states with the largest average Social Security benefits in 2024 were: New Hampshire, Connecticut, Maryland, New Jersey, Delaware, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Washington, Rhode Island, and Virginia. After accounting for projected cost-of-living adjustments of 2.5% in 2025 and 2.8% in 2026, the estimated average monthly benefits in these states by 2026 range from $2,294.96 in Virginia to $2,486.21 in New Hampshire.

  • The data is based on 2024 figures from the Social Security Administration.
  • The estimated 2026 benefits account for a 2.5% cost-of-living adjustment in 2025 and a 2.8% adjustment in 2026.

The players

Social Security Administration

The federal agency that administers the Social Security program and provides data on average benefits across the United States.

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The takeaway

Retirees in certain states can maximize their Social Security income, which is crucial for a comfortable retirement. Understanding the factors that influence benefit amounts, such as average incomes, can help seniors make informed decisions about where to live in their golden years.