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9. Iowa

When most people think of Iowa, they probably think of rows and rows of corn. However, not many know that UNESCO designated Iowa City as a "City of Literature" for its pioneering efforts in teaching creative writing. That placed it in an elite club that includes cities like Edinburgh and Dublin. In terms of taxes, Iowa doesn't have a Social Security tax, but it does still tax income. Sales tax is 6%.

Paul Brady Photography via Shutterstock

Most of the cities in Iowa rank pretty well when gauged for retirement potential, and obviously, there are still more rural areas that offer more chances to experience nature.