Based on Storm Prediction Center data from 2003 to 2022, here are the 10 states with the highest average number of tornadoes per year, and why retirees may want to weigh the risk and avoid money mistakes. States with heavy tornado activity tend to carry higher home insurance premiums, and many homeowners invest in storm shelters or safe rooms that add real cost. Tornado strength is rated on the Enhanced Fujita scale, which runs from EF0 storms with winds of 65 to 85 miles per hour up to catastrophic EF5 storms with winds above 200.