• South Dakota is the best state for single seniors looking for a partner.
• The Mount Rushmore State boasts a high percentage of healthy seniors, a low rate of mental health issues, and a well-balanced gender ratio.
• The report also found that dating apps are as popular among seniors as they are among younger people.

There are a record 25.9 million single seniors in America, not counting the 4.2 million potential retirees turning 65 in 2025. So if you’re a single senior looking for a partner, you may want to consider relocating to a different state to find love.

In February, Seniorly, a resource center for adults of retirement age, released the findings of its study looking into the best states for single seniors. The company considered 12 different metrics in three categories: health and well-being, family life, and financial health.

And it named South Dakota the No. 1 place for romance for seniors. 

“South Dakota stands out for its low rate of mental health problems (5.3 percent), healthy senior population (82 percent in good health), and low risk of romance scams (17.2 per 100,000),” Seniorly reported. “It also has a fairly balanced gender ratio, with 111 older women for every 100 men.” 

One more northern destination came in a close second: Minnesota. It scored high marks thanks to its high life expectancy (19.4 years at age 65) and strong health outcomes (81.7 percent in good health). However, it lost out on the top spot due to its pricey date nights, estimated to cost an average of $156 per date.

Wyoming rounds out the top three thanks to its high social engagement numbers, with Colorado and New Hampshire ranking fourth and fifth, respectively.

As for how older Americans are finding love, it turns out it’s in the same way as younger Americans.

“Dating apps aren’t just for the young and restless—older Americans are swiping right too. In fact, according to the Pew Research Center, 13 percent of adults 65 and older are already in on the action,” the report explained. It added that the top apps for senior singles include Match.com, eHarmony.com, and OKCupid.com.

“The growing number of single seniors is reshaping societal norms around aging and romance, proving it’s never too late to find meaningful relationships,” the study concluded. “Whether it’s through an active social life, good health outcomes, or opportunities to hit the town, some states offer better conditions than others for seniors looking for love—but ultimately, success in the dating pool comes down to personal confidence, open-mindedness and the willingness to embrace new experiences regardless of age.” 

See the full study at seniorly.com.