What are the best states to move to if you win the lottery?
As a longtime gaming buff and lottery player, I often daydream about hitting a massive jackpot. And as much fun as planning epic spending sprees can be, one of my first considerations is always – where would be the best state to move to in order to make my windfall last?
As a lottery winner lucky enough to have this choice, there are several key factors to weigh when picking out the perfect state to relocate to with your newfound riches. Based on my research, here are my top state contenders across different categories:
States With No Tax on Winnings
The most obvious factor for lottery winners is avoiding state income taxes on jackpot payouts. The following 8 states have no taxes on lottery winnings:
| State | Top City | Median Home Price | January Avg High Temp |
| California | Los Angeles | $837,400 | 66°F |
| Florida | Miami | $387,500 | 76°F |
These states allow you to maximize your after-tax cash, while offering warm climates and great amenities. According to livability.com rankings, cities like San Diego, San Francisco and Miami offer exceptional quality of life. I‘d enjoy California‘s beaches and Florida‘s vibrancy.
Other Low Tax States
While they do tax winnings, states like Pennsylvania, North Dakota, Indiana and Ohio have relatively low overall tax burdens:
| State | Tax Rate on $10 Million Jackpot | Overall 2021 State & Local Tax Burden |
| Pennsylvania | $500,000 | 10.34% |
| North Dakota | $290,000 | 8.71% |
I‘d be excited to move to Philadelphia with its thriving arts scene or Pittsburgh with great sports teams. North Dakota could allow me to enjoy wide open spaces.
Anonymity Options
For those wanting privacy, Delaware, Kansas, Maryland, North Dakota, Ohio, South Carolina and Texas allow lottery winners to remain anonymous through claiming winnings via trusts or LLCs. You can avoid publicity without needing to hide away entirely. I could see still enjoying Austin‘s music festivals or Charleston‘s foodie scene.
Each state has specific provisions – for example, in Kansas winners can opt out of publicity if they claim within a year but in Ohio it‘s unconditional. Consulting estate lawyers to understand requirements is essential.
Weighing Quality of Life Factors
Of course you‘ll also want to consider amenities, weather, cost of living and more when choosing a lottery retreat. I‘d be torn between exciting big cities like San Francisco and more affordable small towns like Columbus, Ohio.
While taxes and privacy are critical, enjoying my fortune would be the priority – spending time outdoors, going to live events, learning new hobbies. Finding a balanced location to settle down in with great people and activities would be ideal.
Let me know in the comments – if you scored big lottery winnings, what factors would you prioritize most in picking out a new home state? As a fellow player, I‘m open to suggestions!
