19. Illinois

Average annual benefit: $17,896

In The Prairie State, 1,590,343 retirees collected an average of $1,491.30 in monthly benefits. Illinois does not tax benefits or pension and retirement account income. Tax-friendly towards retirees, but property taxes are high.

State taxes are 6.25%, but localities can increase this by up to 10% more. Prescription and non-prescription drugs and food are taxed at 1% statewide. State income taxes are flat-rated at 4.95% after adjustments. There is no inheritance tax, and the estate tax, capped at 16%, has a $4 million exemption.