$1978.77 Average Social Security Check – Are You Getting Enough?

Social Security benefits are a critical source of income for millions of retirees, but not everyone receives the same monthly check. In 2025, the average Social Security benefit for retired workers is $1,978.77 per month, but this amount varies depending on cost of living, wage levels, and state taxes.

If you’re wondering whether your check is fair compared to others in your state, this guide will help you compare your benefits, understand key factors affecting payments, and explore strategies to maximize your Social Security income.

How Does Your Social Security Check Compare?

Comparing your Social Security check to state and national averages can help you determine if your payments align with what others receive. If your check is lower than expected, there are steps you can take to increase your benefit amount and optimize your retirement income.

Why Do Social Security Benefits Vary by State?

Although Social Security is a federal program, the amount retirees receive can vary significantly by state. This happens due to several key factors:

1. Cost of Living Adjustments (COLA)

Each year, the Social Security Administration (SSA) adjusts benefits to account for inflation. States with higher living costs generally have higher average benefits because workers in those states typically earned higher wages over their careers.

2. Local Wage Levels

Social Security benefits are based on a worker’s highest 35 years of earnings. In states with higher wages, retirees tend to receive larger checks. Conversely, in states with lower median incomes, Social Security payments are typically lower.

3. Retirement Age and Work History

• Claiming benefits early (age 62) results in lower monthly payments.
• Waiting until full retirement age (67 for most workers) ensures full benefits.
• Delaying until 70 maximizes payments, increasing benefits by 8% per year after full retirement age.

4. State Taxes on Social Security

Some states tax Social Security benefits, reducing the net amount retirees actually receive. As of 2025, 12 states tax Social Security benefits, including:

• Colorado
• Connecticut
• Kansas
• Minnesota
• Missouri
• Montana
• Nebraska
• New Mexico
• Rhode Island
• Utah
• Vermont
• West Virginia

Relocating to a tax-friendly state could help you keep more of your benefits.

5. Medicare Deductions from Social Security

If you’re enrolled in Medicare, premiums for Medicare Part B and other plans may be automatically deducted from your Social Security check.

• The standard Part B premium for 2025 is $174.70 per month, though it may be higher for individuals with higher incomes.

State-by-State Social Security Benefit Comparison

Here’s how Social Security benefits compare across the U.S. in 2025:

States with the Highest Average Benefits:

• New Hampshire: $2,405 per month
• Connecticut: $2,370 per month
• Massachusetts: $2,350 per month

States with the Lowest Average Benefits:

• Mississippi: $1,816 per month
• Louisiana: $1,835 per month
• Arkansas: $1,850 per month

To check the average benefit in your state, visit the Social Security Administration website (SSA.gov).

How to Determine If You’re Getting a Fair Social Security Check

1. Compare Your Benefits to the State and National Average

Log in to your Social Security account (SSA.gov) to review your monthly payment. Compare it to your state’s average and the national average ($1,978.77 per month in 2025).

2. Review Your Earnings Record

Errors in your earnings record can reduce your benefits. Log in to My Social Security and check your earnings history. If you spot mistakes, request a correction from the SSA.

3. Understand the Impact of Retirement Age

• Claiming at 62 reduces benefits by up to 30%.
• Full retirement age (67) provides full benefits.
• Waiting until 70 increases payments by 8% per year after full retirement age.

4. Check for Inflation and COLA Adjustments

Each year, Social Security payments increase based on COLA. The 2025 COLA is expected to be around 3.2%. Make sure your check reflects this adjustment.

How to Increase Your Social Security Benefits

1. Delay Claiming Your Benefits

For every year you delay Social Security beyond full retirement age (up to 70), your benefit increases by approximately 8%. This can significantly boost your lifetime income.

2. Work for at Least 35 Years

Social Security benefits are based on your highest 35 years of earnings. If you haven’t worked 35 years, the SSA uses zero-income years, which lowers your benefits. Working additional years can replace lower-earning years with higher-earning ones.

3. Continue Working After Retirement

If you continue working while collecting Social Security, your benefits may increase if your new earnings replace lower-wage years in your 35-year calculation.

4. Move to a Tax-Friendly State

If you live in a state that taxes Social Security, consider relocating to a state that does not. This could help you keep more of your benefits.

5. Check for Spousal or Survivor Benefits

Spouses and widows/widowers may qualify for higher benefits based on their partner’s work record. Make sure to explore spousal and survivor benefits if applicable.

Social Security benefits vary widely by state, depending on local wages, cost of living, taxes, and retirement age. If you believe your check is lower than expected, consider delaying benefits, reviewing your earnings record, or working additional years to maximize your payments.

Comparing your benefits to state and national averages can help you determine if your check is fair. And if taxes or Medicare deductions are cutting into your payments, exploring state residency options or optimizing your retirement strategy may be beneficial.

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