American soldiers dedicate their entire lives to our nation, and then there comes a time when they bid adieu to their uniforms. When that happens, most of them want to find a suitable place to settle that is veteran-friendly and would help them ease back into civilian life.
According to our research, many cities are ideal for retired military based on different metrics such as economy, employment ratio, cost of living, and overall quality of life. Let’s explore the best cities for veterans to retire.
Boise, Idaho
Boise, Idaho, is the perfect place for veterans over the age of 65. It has many mountain ranges and rivers, making it a scenic location. The city has just the right amount of liveliness, featuring various eateries, parks, and urban and suburban neighborhoods. The culture is diverse and welcoming, where a retiree will feel comfortable.
5% of Boise’s population constitutes retired armed officers and soldiers. The city has a low unemployment rate of 2.5% and a low poverty rate for veterans. It is home to many retirement communities which help provide housing to retired veterans.
Vancouver, Washington
Vancouver, located on the bank of the Columbia River, is one of the top retirement and veteran-friendly cities. It has the second-highest number of housing communities, many of them catering to retirees. The employment rate is as low as 2.4%.
Moreover, it has no state income tax or retirement tax and even has low housing taxes. The city is mainly green, with a few days of snow in the winter. It also has beaches as well as a mountain range close by.
Tucson, Arizona
Tucson, Arizona, is home to five mountain ranges that offers excellent views and various recreational activities. Tucson has a 95.7% employment rate making it easier for retired officers to find jobs. The city also has military bases and installations such as Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, which retirees can make use of.
The temperature is ideal with temperate summers and winters. It also owns five golf courses and two skiing resorts. The city is incredibly family-friendly with its parks, schools, colleges, and hospitals.
Virginia Beach, Virginia
Virginia Beach is a small city with a population of 450,000 residents. It has beautiful beaches where you can sit by and enjoy your retirement life, making it perfect for veterans looking for a quiet suburban or urban place to live.
The city has a low crime rate and is extremely affordable, with an employment rate of 96.7%. It provides numerous facilities, including housing and health care to its residents.
Madison, Wisconsin
Madison is located in the stunning Midwestern state of Wisconsin, where veterans can enjoy a vast range of outdoor activities, scenic views, and a cool climate. It has affordable housing and several employment options because of its manufacturing and agriculture industries. Many laws benefit veterans, such as nearly tax-free military pensions. There is a Veterans Health Administration (VHA) Centre nearby and Fort McCoy, an army base, about 90 miles away.