27. North Carolina

Average annual benefit: $17,550

In the Tar Heel State, 1,476,848 retirees averaged $1,462.49 monthly. Benefits are not taxed, but the retirement income flat-tax is 5.25%. Moderately retirement-friendly without estate or inheritance taxes and a 6.97% sales tax average.

Benefits are paid to a surviving child until they reach age 18. But did you know that there is a maximum family benefit? If your benefits exceed an established limit, your spouse or dependent children will receive less.