The average monthly Social Security retirement benefit for retired workers in the United States is $1,997.13, according to the Social Security Administration (SSA). However, this average varies across states due to differences in wages, cost of living, and other factors.

Average Social Security Payments by State

Here’s a snapshot of the average monthly Social Security retirement benefits in selected states:

State	Average Monthly Benefit
Connecticut	$2,113.55
Delaware	$2,089.60
Colorado	$1,957.85
Arizona	$1,949.20
California	$1,865.85
Alabama	$1,855.76
Alaska	$1,837.49
Arkansas	$1,789.74
Mississippi	$1,816.00

These figures indicate that states like Connecticut and Delaware have higher average benefits, while states like Mississippi and Arkansas have lower averages.

Factors Influencing Benefit Amounts

Several factors contribute to the variation in average Social Security benefits across states:

• Earnings History: Benefits are calculated based on a worker’s 35 highest-earning years. States with higher average wages tend to have higher average benefits.
• Cost of Living Adjustments (COLA): While COLA is applied uniformly, its impact can vary depending on the local cost of living.
• Demographics: States with older populations may have more retirees receiving benefits, influencing the average.

Understanding Your Benefits

To estimate your own Social Security benefits, you can use the SSA’s information, which provides estimates based on your earnings history and expected retirement age.

If you have specific questions about your Social Security benefits or need assistance with retirement planning, consider consulting a financial advisor or contacting the SSA directly.