Top 10 Spots to Retire in U.S.

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When Americans are ready to retire, they should head to The Gem State. That's according to a new report from MoneyRates.com, which concludes Idaho offers the best conditions for retirees compared to any other state in the nation.

Idaho ranks highest for a variety of factors including senior population, economic factors -- cost of living; taxes and unemployment; violent and property crime rates; and climate and life expectancies at age 65. 

Iowa, another less-obvious retirement destination, ranks second, while Florida, a traditionally popular state for retirees comes in at number six.

"A comfortable retirement isn't always about warm weather and beachfront property," said Richard Barrington, senior financial analyst for MoneyRates.com. "Freedom from crime, low property taxes and a reasonable cost of living may be more important to some people."

The title of worst state to retire in goes to Louisiana, mainly due to the state's high crime rates and low senior life expectancies, the report said. 

Mississippi and Nevada are tied for second-worst. Even though the states hover lower on the list, they still have qualities to offer, MoneyRates said. 

"It's not to say that people can't be happy retiring in these bottom-ranked states," Mr. Barrington said. "It's just that there are some prominent flaws that older people should be aware of before choosing those areas as places to retire."

Best States to Retire 2013, starting with No. 1. 

1. Idaho
2. Iowa
3. Hawaii
4. South Dakota
5. Oregon
6. Florida
7. (tie) Arizona
7. (tie) North Dakota
9. Vermont
10. (tie) Minnesota
10. (tie) Utah