In 2025, millions of retirees across the United States are receiving monthly Social Security payments that vary based on several factors. These include cost of living, average income, and whether a state offers additional Social Security or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) supplements.
Social Security Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) in 2025
This year, a 2.5% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) has been implemented to help retirees keep up with inflation and maintain their purchasing power. As a result, Social Security payments have seen a slight increase.
Maximum SSI payments have increased to $967 for an individual.
Married couples can now receive up to $1,450.
Essential individuals can receive $484 per month.
While this increase is the same nationwide, the state in which someone resides can impact the actual amount they receive, depending on factors like income levels and whether a state offers extra support for its residents.
States That Pay the Most Social Security Benefits in 2025
Here are the states that offer the highest average monthly Social Security payments in 2025:
Connecticut
Average monthly check: $2,190.05
Connecticut boasts a high per capita income, along with state policies that favor seniors, ensuring more financial support for retirees.
New Jersey
Average monthly check: $2,183.82
New Jersey’s high income levels and state benefits for seniors result in one of the highest average Social Security payments in the country.
New Hampshire
Average monthly check: $2,170.63
Despite a smaller population, New Hampshire offers high income levels and a stable quality of life, which translates into larger Social Security checks for retirees.
Delaware
Average monthly check: $2,139.54
Delaware is a popular state for retirees, offering tax benefits and extra state support to help increase Social Security payments.
Maryland
Average monthly check: $2,139.54
With a highly skilled workforce and higher-than-average income, Maryland retirees enjoy a greater financial benefit from Social Security.
While the COLA adjustment applies across the nation, the states with high per capita income and senior-friendly policies, such as Connecticut, New Jersey, and New Hampshire, offer the highest Social Security payments. These states provide extra benefits and support to seniors, making them some of the best places for retirees to live financially.
