HUNT VALLEY, Md. — A new study by CareScout Analytics says seniors in 41 states and the District of Columbia are expected to outlive their retirement income and savings, underscoring the financial strain many older adults could face as they plan for long-term care.

CareScout Analytics found the average 65-year-old retiree faces a projected $109,000 shortfall in retirement. The figure represents the gap between what retirees are likely to spend and what Social Security, savings and investments are expected to cover, according to the study.

The projected shortfalls are especially tied to states with higher costs of living, including California and New York, where seniors are expected to outlive their savings.

Only nine states are projected to provide retirees with a surplus in retirement, according to the study:

WashingtonNew HampshireColoradoNebraskaIdahoMinnesotaUtahMarylandMontana

Several factors are contributing to the retirement savings gap. One is increased life expectancy. People are living longer, which means retirement lasts longer and requires more money. In addition, the Federal Reserve says 8% of non-retired adults have had to tap into their retirement savings to cover other expenses.

CareScout said retirees and those planning for retirement can make location part of their financial strategy. The organization recommends researching care costs before committing to a move to another state. Costs for assisted living, nursing homes and in-home support can vary widely from state to state, and staying put is not always the safest financial option, according to the study.

The organization recommends factoring long-term care into retirement location decisions in the same way people consider taxes. It also suggests considering a long-term care insurance plan during peak earning years for added peace of mind and to help protect any inheritance people plan to pass down.

CareScout also recommends speaking with an expert to map out available options, including the cost and quality of care nearby.

Overall, experts say the earlier people consider where they may want to retire and what care could cost as they age, the more control they may be able to keep over their retirement planning.