The Worst State to Retire In Was Also Named the Best Place to Achieve the American Dream, and We're Confused
If you haven't heard the news, one state was just named the best place for those young people looking to achieve the American dream. And while there's a lot to be said for paving your own way in many of the states across the country-a city in another state just earned a similar title, but more on that later-what makes this declaration unusual is the fact that this location was also recently named the worst place to retire.
So, how can both things be true at the same time? Keep reading to learn more, including what one resident has to say about the colliding factors that can make this place wonderful for young upstarts while also putting a damper on the retirement dreams of those living on a fixed income.
New Jersey Has Been Named the 'Best Place to Achieve the American Dream'
A study from DuelBits has named New Jersey as one of the best states in the country for those in pursuit of the American dream, which is being defined as "the possibility of upward mobility, freedom, and equality for people of all classes who work hard and have the will to succeed," according to Britannica.
Travel + Leisure says several factors were considered, including:
- Percentage of homeowners
- Percentage of college degrees
- Average salaries
- Number of foreign-born residents
- Vehicle ownership information
- Debt
- Life expectancy
After looking at those things, the Garden State scored an 8.72 out of 10, the highest ranking among all states. Some of the places where New Jersey ranked highest included car ownership and college degrees. The state also got good marks in salaries (the average is $76,321), life expectancy (residents live to an average of 79 years old), and diversity (25 percent of residents come from other countries).
However, it's not all sunshine and rainbows for those who live here, according to one New Jersey resident who was surprised to hear the state ranked so high for those looking to follow the American dream.
"As much as I love my current home state, I think it's a little egregious to say it is the best place to 'achieve the American Dream,'" says editor and New Jersey resident Lauren Gordon. "If the 'American Dream' is upward mobility, the taxes alone here are enough to keep you shackled to the ground."
New Jersey Named Worst State for Retirees
A Seniorly report ranked New Jersey at the top of another list in 2025: the worst states for retirees. The Garden State won first place here as well, and it sounds like it's for a familiar reason: affordability.
As Gordon mentioned, those property taxes really do add up, and they are among the highest in the country. That's how New Jersey ended up earning the title of "one of the least affordable states in the country."
Also, the state doesn't offer much to retirees looking to stay active, with limited access to recreation and the arts. Meanwhile, more than 65 percent of seniors living in the state report having more than three chronic conditions, highlighting a potential health concern among residents.
Related: How Living In These States Could Shrink Your Social Security Check
Kansas City is Also Said to be Good for Pursuing the American Dream
Okay, so I'll be the first to admit that I'm getting major mixed vibes from these two different declarations. That's why I'd like to turn your attention to Topeka, Kansas, which was named one of the few cities where the American dream is still possible.
Unlike New Jersey, it has a lower tax rate, which seems like it would be good for residents at any stage of life. Additionally, the city is offering new residents $15,000 to relocate to Topeka...talk about upward mobility!
If nothing else, the fact that New Jersey can end up on both of these lists highlights just how diverse the American dream can be and how a person's needs and desires can change as they age.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice.
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This story was originally published April 22, 2026 at 9:03 AM.