When choosing a location to call home in your retirement years, there will be a number of factors you consider. Among those factors may be highly personal considerations, like where your family lives, where your political values align, or where you have access to entertainment and attractions that interest you. While the ultimate deciding factors may lie in these highly important items, there are other considerations when choosing a place to live based on factors not within your control.

When looking at the worst states to retire, we are going to look at the financial factors- not personal. In retirement, your income is typically fixed and sometimes limited. For many retirees, it is vital to find a place where their money will stretch as far as possible. We have deemed the following states (in no particular order) as places to avoid based on cost:

1. New York

The big apple state is a well-known metropolis but with its worldly persona, comes a hefty price tag. While you will likely never hurt for something to do or experience, New York holds one of the top spots in the country for a high cost of living. Retirees looking to downsize and cut their cost of living may struggle to do so here. High property taxes can make it harder even when living in a paid off home. With the hustle and bustle and competitive housing markets among other high taxes and costs, this may be a place to avoid.

2. California

While many people long for the idealized beaches and sunny warm weather, this isn’t the reality for many retired Californians. The soaring cost of living makes day to day expenses tough. California has one of the highest state income tax rates along with moderately high property tax rates. Sales tax will get you coming or going as well. Gas taxes are high, bumping fuel costs even higher to get around and enjoy the sights. Even vehicle registration is high. With everything costing a “little bit” more along with higher taxes and fees (mixed with a hot housing market), California living can become unattainable or unsustainable. For this reason, many would-be Californians end up enjoying their retirement in retirement friendly Florida, complete with sunny beaches. You may try living somewhere more budget-friendly and visiting often due to your increased disposable income.

3. Alaska

While Alaska is beautiful in many respects, it may not appeal to many retirees for both financial and practical reasons. Alaska has a relatively high cost of living- housing, utilities, food, etc. However what really stands out is the extremely high cost of healthcare and nursing home averages. While not all retirees will be in need of constant medical care, it is realistic to think that as you age, the likelihood of needing care will increase. For good measure, you may want to consider retiring in a place that isn’t astronomical in terms of cost for health care. Harsh weather can also put a damper in retirement years, especially the cold weather on aching joints. While the weather was not one of the factors considered, it is worth mentioning.

4. Connecticut

While Connecticut may have its own charm, the cost of living, high taxes, and budget issues leave something to be desired. Social security income is taxed as well as any other income you bring to the table. With the rather public and serious budget issues the State of Connecticut is up against, it is realistic to assume the residents will continue to be taxed and penalized at a rate to keep the state afloat. You may want to think twice before joining that parade.

While this is not an exhaustive list, consider wisely where you plan to put down roots in your retirement. Your location can greatly influence the quality of life you experience in your golden years.