New Study Says New York Is One of the Best States to Grow Old In

If you're planning to spend your retirement years in New York, a new study suggests you're in a pretty good place.

A new report from healthcare staffing company Nursa ranked New York as the fifth-best state in the country for aging well, thanks to factors like long life expectancy, walkable communities and access to nursing home care.

The company's Aging Well in America Index evaluated every state using a variety of factors that impact quality of life for older adults. The rankings looked at everything from life expectancy and healthcare access to nursing home quality, air quality, walkability and the cost of long-term care.

Why New York Ranked in the Top Five

New York earned its spot by performing well in several key categories.

Residents in the Empire State have the fourth-highest life expectancy in the nation at 79.5 years. The state also has the third-highest number of nursing home beds, with more than 111,000 available statewide, helping improve access to long-term care when it's needed.

Another major advantage is walkability. New York ranked as the fifth-most walkable state in the country, making it easier for older adults to stay active, run errands and remain connected to their communities.

Which State Ranked No. 1?

Hawaii claimed the top spot as the best state to grow old in, earning an overall score of 8.56 out of 10.

Read More: New York Expands Work Zone Speed Cameras Across the State

The study credits Hawaii's exceptional life expectancy, clean air, abundant sunshine and highly rated nursing homes for helping it stand out. Florida, New Jersey and Massachusetts rounded out the top four before New York completed the top five.

The Top 5 Best States to Grow Old:

1. Hawaii
2. Florida
3. New Jersey
4. Massachusetts
5. New York

Which States Ranked the Worst?

Mississippi ranked last in the nation for aging well. Researchers pointed to its lower life expectancy, poor walkability and lower-rated nursing homes as major factors.

The five lowest-ranked states were:

• Mississippi
• Oklahoma
• New Mexico
• Georgia
• Michigan

Nursing Home Costs Vary Widely

The study also found enormous differences in the cost of nursing home care across the country.

Alaska is the most expensive state, where nursing home care averages more than $30,000 per month due to limited facilities, healthcare worker shortages and geographic challenges.

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On the opposite end of the spectrum, Texas offers the lowest average monthly nursing home cost at $5,475, although the state also faces a significant nursing shortage and below-average nursing home ratings.

While no state is perfect, the report suggests New York offers a strong combination of longevity, healthcare access and community features that can make it a great place to grow older.