10 Worst States for Older Workers — Low Pay, Fewer Jobs in 2026

A record number of Americans ages 65 and older are still in the workforce — some by choice, and others because they need to keep working longer due to high living costs.

Whatever the case may be, where you live can impact your ability to thrive as an older worker.

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How the Worst States for Older Workers Were Ranked

To determine the best and worst states for older workers, CareScout analyzed all 50 states and Washington, D.C., using key factors that affect older workers’ job prospects and financial stability, including:

• Labor force participation

• Income for older workers

• Age discrimination rates

• Remote work flexibility

• Income taxes

• New business growth

10 Worst States for Older Workers in 2026

Based on this analysis, CareScout determined that these are the states where older workers face the biggest challenges finding stable, well-paying work:

1. Mississippi

2. Arkansas

3. West Virginia

4. Alabama

5. Louisiana

6. Michigan

7. South Carolina

8. Indiana

9. Missouri

10. Wisconsin

Why These States Rank So Poorly for Older Employees

The worst states for older workers tend to have low household income among older adults, low labor force participation among older people and high rates of age discrimination. West Virginia bucks this trend, however; it ranked 13th for age discrimination complaints, with just 44 complaints per 100,000 older workers.

Older workers can still succeed anywhere, but in these states, lower wages, fewer opportunities and higher barriers may make staying employed significantly harder.

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This article was provided by MoneyLion.com for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, legal or tax advice.

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