5 States With the Oldest Populations

The median age of the U.S. population is 39.1, but according to the 2024 U.S. census, certain states tend to attract older residents. The median ages of the following states are well above the national average, making them ideal places for older Americans to live or visit. Here are the five states with the oldest populations — and what to do while you’re there.

5. Florida

Median age: 42.6

Although Florida has a reputation as the ultimate retirement destination, it ranks as the fifth-oldest state in the country. Florida is popular with all ages, but seniors in particular are drawn to the warm weather and factors such as beach accessibility, with 92 wheelchair-accessible beaches in the state spread across 25 counties. (Accessibility varies depending on the location, but typically includes ramps, Mobi-mats, and/or beach wheelchairs for rent or loan.)

The Sunshine State also makes it easy to enjoy the water any time of year: You can sail on the Jolly River Schooner in Key West, spot manatees and alligators on the St. Johns River Cruise, or cruise the Port Largo Canal on the African Queen, just like Katherine Hepburn in the famous 1951 film.

4. West Virginia

Median age: 43

West Virginia has the fourth-highest median age of any state. But whether you live in the Mountain State or are just visiting, there are plenty of attractions that welcome all ages and abilities. New River Gorge National Park, one of the state’s prettiest landscapes, features four wheelchair-accessible visitor centers, plus wide boardwalks that lead to spectacular overlooks of the canyon. 

Just a short drive from the park, Fayetteville offers a historic downtown with shops, restaurants, and overnight lodging. Meanwhile, in Morgantown, the West Virginia Botanic Garden features nearly 5 miles of scenic walking trails across 85 acres, and at nearby West Virginia University, visitors can enjoy top-notch bird-watching opportunities and peaceful trails on the campus’s Core Arboretum.

2. New Hampshire (tie)

Median age: 43.6

Not only is New Hampshire considered one of the top states for retirees, but it’s also ranked as one of the happiest states in the country. Located halfway between Boston and Portland, the bustling town of Portsmouth is a popular attraction, with boutique shops, excellent restaurants, historic streets, and nearby beaches. For water access and harbor views, visit the Wentworth-Coolidge Mansion for an easy loop trail near the water and seasonal tours of the historic home and property. 

The state’s mountainous region is equally inviting, providing plenty of scenic drives and overlooks. Leaf peepers flock to Kancamangus Highway in autumn, while thrill seekers attempt the vertiginous drive to the top of Mount Washington, where an observatory sits at the tallest summit in New England.

2. Vermont (tie)

Median age: 43.6

There must be something about New England that makes residents want to stick around, because Vermont is tied with neighboring New Hampshire for the country’s second-oldest population. The bucolic state is perfect for taking a scenic drive, especially on the Green Mountain Byway, which travels from Waterbury to Stowe for 71 picturesque miles. (Don’t forget to pull over for a maple creemee soft serve when you spot a local stand.)

For views from a higher vantage point, the state’s many ski areas are accessible in the summer, with scenic gondola rides to mountain summits. Plus, attractions like the Shelburne Museum and Hildene (the Lincoln family home) provide a dose of history, art, and culture in the Green Mountain State.

1. Maine

Median age: 44.8

Twenty-three percent of Maine residents are 65 or older. Not only is the state a great place for older folks to live, but it’s also a top tourist destination, with plenty of senior-friendly attractions located throughout. 

In Boothbay Harbor, the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens has gentle walking paths and electric carts available. A short ferry ride from Portland, Peaks Island has golf carts for rent, plus a flat and scenic bike path that circumnavigates the island. During summer and fall, craft shows, flea markets, and fairs are abundant across the state, making it an ideal destination for antique and art lovers. If you visit in September, don’t miss one of the largest organic food fairs in the country — the Common Ground Agricultural Fair is beloved by all ages and offers a discount to anyone over 65.