West Virginia ranked 2nd safest state in the U.S. for seniors

West Virginia has been ranked the second-safest state in the country for seniors, according to a 2025 report from Retirement Living. The study analyzed all 50 states using 17 weighted factors, including crime rates, health care access, climate safety, and traffic risks.

The Mountain State scored high in nearly every category, with especially strong performance in public safety and health care.

Low Crime, Strong Health Care Access

West Virginia ranks third nationwide for overall safety, based on its low rates of violent and property crime. Only 12.4 violent crimes are reported per 1,000 seniors—ninth-lowest in the country. Property crime is also low, with just 55.6 incidents per 1,000 seniors, placing it fourth nationally.

In terms of health care, West Virginia is eighth in the nation for senior access. More than 25% of home health agencies in the state are rated four stars or higher, signaling strong in-home care support even in rural areas.

Climate safety also contributed to the state’s ranking. West Virginia placed 11th in the nation, with predictable seasonal changes that pose less risk to older adults compared to extreme-weather regions.

Pennsylvania Ranked No. 1 for Senior Safety

Pennsylvania ranked first overall in the report. It scored in the top 20 in nearly every major category and ranked fourth in climate safety. The state has a low rate of elder abuse, with 7.5 reported incidents per 100,000 seniors.

Its proximity to major cities like New York allows for access to urban resources while maintaining a quieter environment for retirees.

Safety Becoming Key Retirement Factor

As the senior population in the U.S. grows at a faster rate than the general population, safety is becoming a key factor in retirement decisions. Seniors are more vulnerable to crime, health crises, and environmental risks.

Retirement Living’s report is intended to help retirees evaluate which states provide the most support, security, and access to care.

For more information and a full list of state rankings, visit RetirementLiving.com.