Side-by-side for American retirees in 2026.
The default American retirement state — and still the #1 destination. No state income tax, no estate tax, year-round warm weather, and the country's largest retiree community.
One of the most generous states for retirees — up to $130K per couple of retirement income excluded from state tax. Mild climate, mountains, and Atlanta as a hub.
| No state income tax | Income tax | Flat 5.29% |
| Exempt | Social Security | Exempt |
| All retirement income state-tax-free | Pension treatment | $65K/person retirement exclusion at 65+ — among the most generous in the US |
| 0.82% | Property tax (effective) | 0.81% |
| 7.00% | Avg combined sales tax | 7.40% |
| 102.8 | Cost of living (US=100) | 90.8 |
| None (no estate or inheritance tax) | Estate / inheritance tax | None |
| Hot/humid year-round, especially May–October. Mild winters statewide. Hurricane season June–November. | Climate | Hot humid summers, mild winters in southern half; cooler in northern mountains. Long growing season. |
| Strong — large hospital systems statewide (Cleveland Clinic Florida, Mayo Jacksonville, AdventHealth). Above-average Medicare Advantage options. | Healthcare | Strong — Emory Healthcare (Atlanta), Piedmont Healthcare. Solid coverage in mid-sized cities. |
| The Villages, Sarasota, Naples | Top retirement cities | Athens, Savannah, Blue Ridge |
$50,000 homestead exemption + 'Save Our Homes' 3% annual cap on assessment increases
Standard $2,000 homestead + larger exemptions for 65+ in many counties; double for 65+ with income under ~$10K
Florida: The default American retirement state — and still the #1 destination. No state income tax, no estate tax, year-round warm weather, and the country's largest retiree community. Georgia: One of the most generous states for retirees — up to $130K per couple of retirement income excluded from state tax. Mild climate, mountains, and Atlanta as a hub. The right choice depends on your income mix, climate preference, and whether state income tax matters more to you than property tax.
No, Florida does not tax Social Security retirement benefits.
No, Georgia does not tax Social Security retirement benefits.
Florida's cost of living index is 102.8 (US = 100). Georgia's is 90.8. Georgia is cheaper on average.
Enter your retirement income and see the after-tax difference between Florida and Georgia in 30 seconds.
Open tax estimator →Tax data current as of 2026 publication. Rates and rules change annually — verify with a CPA before relocating. This page is educational and not personalized tax or legal advice.