Iowa One of the Best States to Grow Old In

Iowa doesn't necessarily come to mind when you think "retirement destination," but according to a new list by Caring.com, Iowa ranks number two among the top ten states to grow old.

Caring looked at a variety of factors, including quality healthcare, long-term care, affordability and quality of life. It may not be a mecca for sunny beaches, but Iowa ranks high in both overall quality of life and healthcare for residents over 55.

The Midwest did pretty well overall on the list, as South Dakota (the US Census Bureau considers it to be part of the Midwest, but it's up for debate), Wisconsin and Minnesota also made the top ten. South Dakota may be cold and desolate, but it ranked number one on the list due to having the highest combined rankings of purpose, social, financial, community and physical well-being.

Minnesota comes in at number three on the list due to high quality of health care, as well as overall quality of life. And Wisconsin rounds out the list at number ten, boasting high scores for long-term care options, support for seniors, and support for family caregivers.

Unsurprisingly, one tropical state did make the cut. Hawaii came in at number seven, as they scored well with support for family caregivers, high quality of long-term care, and support for seniors.

But it looks like the freezing cold tundra of the Midwest isn't the worst place to retire after all.