Virginia is one of the safest states in the country, and could be a good choice for retirees looking for a coastal lifestyle. It's home to miles of beaches and the Chesapeake Bay.
About 25% of people prefer to live near the beach when they retire, Bankrate said.
Related: Sailing around the world in retirement: How we did it
And for those who like a city feel, there's easy access to major East Coast cities like Washington, D.C. and Baltimore.