West Virginia has the lowest workforce participation rate for seniors, with only 13.5% of its over-65 population still employed. Out of its 1.8 million residents, nearly a quarter are aged 65 and older, reflecting a state that skews older demographically. The state’s economy has traditionally been dominated by physically demanding industries such as coal mining, manufacturing, and agriculture, which are less conducive to seniors staying in the workforce.
Health challenges and limited access to less strenuous job opportunities also play a significant role in the low participation rate. Furthermore, the state’s cost of living is among the lowest in the nation, which can ease financial pressures on retirees and reduce the need for extended employment. The overwhelming majority—86.5%—of seniors in West Virginia are retired or otherwise not engaged in the labor force, underscoring the state’s reliance on younger and middle-aged workers.
Mississippi’s senior workforce participation rate stands at 15.7%, placing it among the lowest in the nation. With a population of around 3 million, a significant portion of the state’s economy relies on agriculture, manufacturing, and other labor-intensive industries that are less accessible to older workers. Additionally, Mississippi struggles with one of the highest poverty rates in the U.S., which often leads to financial insecurity that discourages seniors from extending their time in the workforce.
Access to flexible or part-time work opportunities remains limited, particularly in rural areas where job availability is already constrained. Despite these challenges, some seniors remain employed in roles such as small business operations, healthcare, and community services. However, a large majority—84.3% of seniors—are not in the labor force. This reflects a combination of financial hardship, health issues, and a lack of suitable employment options.
In Arkansas, only 15.9% of the over-65 population remains in the workforce. Out of the state’s 3 million residents, nearly 600,000 are aged 65 and older. The economy of Arkansas relies heavily on agriculture, forestry, and small manufacturing industries, which are physically demanding and may not offer suitable roles for older workers. The state’s relatively low cost of living allows many retirees to live comfortably without needing to work, especially in rural areas where expenses are minimal.
For those who do continue working, part-time roles in healthcare, retail, or education provide some opportunities, though they remain limited. Arkansas also has a higher prevalence of chronic health conditions among seniors, which may prevent many from remaining in the workforce
In Arizona, only 16.1% of the over-65 population remains in the workforce, reflecting its reputation as a retirement destination. With a total population of approximately 7.5 million and a significant senior demographic, the state offers a lifestyle that caters to retirees, including a warm climate, affordable housing, and a range of leisure activities. Many seniors choose Arizona to enjoy a stress-free lifestyle, which reduces the financial need to continue working.
While industries like healthcare and tourism provide part-time job opportunities, they attract only a small portion of seniors. Furthermore, Arizona’s growing retirement communities offer ample social and recreational options, allowing older residents to maintain an active and fulfilling life without being employed. The remaining 83.9% of seniors in Arizona are either fully retired or not actively seeking work, underscoring the state’s strong appeal as a place to unwind after decades in the workforce.
Idaho ranks among the bottom five states, with just 16.3% of its senior population participating in the workforce. Idaho has a population of nearly 2 million, with a significant portion being seniors. The state’s slower-paced lifestyle and lower cost of living make it an attractive option for retirees who no longer feel the need to work.
Idaho’s economy, which relies heavily on agriculture and resource-based industries, often lacks the flexibility and accessibility needed for older workers to remain employed. Additionally, rural areas may have fewer opportunities for seniors to engage in part-time or remote jobs. However, for those who do stay in the workforce, Idaho offers roles in community-based services, small businesses, and healthcare.
Maryland rounds out the top five, with 23.5% of its over-65 population still employed. With over 6.18 million residents and more than 1 million seniors, its high participation rate is likely due to the state’s proximity to government agencies and defense industries.
These sectors often offer flexible roles for older professionals. Like other states, a majority—76.5%—of Maryland’s senior citizens have exited the labor force.
New Hampshire has 23.6% of its senior population engaged in work. With a population of 1.4 million and 289,958 seniors, its aging workforce contributes to small businesses and the state’s growing tourism industry.
New Hampshire’s lower tax burden and community-driven ethos might encourage older residents to extend their careers. The remaining 76.4% of the senior population, however, are retired or not actively working.
In Massachusetts, 23.9% of residents over 65 continue working. Out of a total population of 7 million, around 1.29 million are seniors. The state's high-ranking healthcare and education sectors provide older adults with flexible job opportunities, especially in consultancy and academia.
Massachusetts has a higher concentration of wealth, enabling seniors to seek meaningful part-time roles rather than retiring entirely. Still, 76.1% of older residents are retired or otherwise not in the labor force.
South Dakota follows closely with 24.6% of its senior population in the workforce. With just under 920,000 residents, about 169,000 are over the age of 65. The state's rural and agricultural economy encourages older workers to remain active in farming, ranching, or small businesses.
The low cost of living and community-oriented culture also provide a supportive environment for seniors who wish to stay engaged professionally. Despite this, 75.4% of South Dakota’s older population are not in the workforce, consistent with national trends.
New Jersey leads the nation with 24.7% of its over-65 population still active in the workforce. With a total population of over 9.2 million and approximately 1.65 million residents aged 65 and older, the high workforce participation is likely driven by a robust job market and access to diverse industries.
The state’s proximity to major economic hubs, like New York City, also provides retirees with opportunities for part-time or consultancy roles. Additionally, higher living costs may incentivize older workers to stay employed. However, the majority (75.3%) of seniors in New Jersey are not in the labor force.
