Choosing the right state for retirement can be a challenging job, especially for military retirees who deserve the best care after years of service.
Some states shine in terms of economic opportunities, quality of life, and healthcare, while others fall short. With 12 veteran healthcare facilities and a low employment rate, Illinois ranks among the worst options for retired military personnel.
Conversely, states like Florida offer a warm climate, robust job opportunities, and a favorable tax system, making it a top choice for many veterans.
Understanding where military retirees receive the best and worst care is crucial for making informed decisions.
This article delves into the rankings of states based on various factors, highlighting both the challenges and advantages that veterans face as they transition into retirement.
1: South Carolina
South Carolina offers a mixed bag for military retirees. While the state boasts a low cost of living and tax benefits for veterans, challenges in veteran healthcare services persist.
VA facilities in South Carolina often experience long wait times, impacting accessibility. Also, job opportunities for retirees can be limited in rural areas, making it crucial for veterans to research local resources before relocating.
2: Florida
Florida stands out for military retirees, combining a warm climate with ample job opportunities. The state provides access to several VA facilities, yet retirees may experience inconsistencies in care quality.
Many veterans appreciate Florida’s lack of state income tax, enhancing their financial situation. Local veteran organizations offer support, and numerous communities cater specifically to retirees, promoting a vibrant lifestyle.
3: Virginia
Virginia is a strong contender for military retirees, thanks to its deep-rooted military presence and extensive veteran support systems. The state offers excellent healthcare services, with multiple VA medical centers providing quality care.
Additionally, Virginia has a robust job market, especially in defense and government-related sectors, making it easier for retirees to find employment.
The cost of living varies by region, with Northern Virginia being more expensive, while other parts of the state offer more affordable options.
4: Maryland
Maryland offers several state benefits for military retirees. These include a property tax exemption for Veterans rated 100% disabled, allowing them to avoid property taxes on their primary residence.
Also, the Maryland Department of Veterans Affairs provides various resources to help veterans navigate available benefits and services.
While these advantages enhance the lives of military retirees, access to timely healthcare may vary across the state.
5: North Dakota
North Dakota offers a mix of benefits for military retirees. Veterans enjoy a 5-point preference in state employment, while disabled veterans receive a 10-point preference.
North Dakota also provides programs like VET, which assists honorably discharged veterans in pursuing certification programs or college degrees.
Dependents of service members killed in action or who died from service-connected causes can attend state schools tuition-free.
6: Minnesota
Minnesota supports military retirees through various initiatives, ensuring a blend of services. The Veterans Preference Act gives veterans an edge in public employment, protecting against unfair dismissals.
WorkForce Centers offer priority services, including resume assistance and job search guidance tailored for veterans.
Minnesota operates several Veterans Homes in locations like Minneapolis and Fergus Falls, providing essential healthcare, including skilled nursing and rehabilitation services.
7: Alaska
Alaska provides mixed experiences for military retirees. It offers the Pioneers’ Homes, which deliver essential services, but many rural areas lack adequate healthcare facilities.
Alaska grants veterans access to the Veterans Affairs (VA) system, yet challenges in transportation affect timely medical care. Its unique geographical landscape often complicates logistics for appointments.
Alaska’s cost of living can be high, impacting retirees’ financial stability. However, some tax benefits, such as property tax exemptions for disabled veterans, provide financial relief.
8: Connecticut
Connecticut offers a blend of benefits and challenges for military retirees. Healthcare access varies significantly, with urban areas generally providing better services than rural regions. Veterans may encounter long wait times at certain facilities, impacting their care experience.
Tax incentives for veterans include exemptions on property tax for disabled individuals, improving affordability.
Also, Connecticut has numerous veteran organizations that offer support and resources, fostering community engagement among retirees.
9: New Hampshire
New Hampshire offers unique benefits for military retirees, like no state income tax and a scenic environment. However, healthcare access can be inconsistent, with rural areas lacking sufficient facilities.
Retirees can find community support through local veteran organizations that facilitate better connections and resources.
10: South Dakota
South Dakota presents a mixed landscape for military retirees. It offers a low cost of living and tax benefits but struggles with limited healthcare access.
Rural areas lack VA facilities, leading to longer travel times for care. Employment opportunities are limited, especially in rural regions, which may affect financial stability. Veteran organizations provide some community support, but healthcare quality can be inconsistent.
11: North Carolina
North Carolina offers military retirees a mixed experience regarding healthcare. Facilities vary widely, with some areas providing excellent care, while others struggle with access and wait times.
The state features several VA hospitals and outpatient clinics, primarily concentrated in urban centers like Charlotte and Raleigh.
12: Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania provides a range of benefits for military retirees but comes with notable challenges. The state has several VA healthcare facilities, yet access can be inconsistent, particularly in rural areas where veterans may face long wait times for appointments.
Pennsylvania offers financial incentives, such as property tax exemptions for disabled veterans and a veterans’ preference program for state employment.
13: Wyoming
Wyoming offers several advantages for military retirees, particularly in terms of tax benefits and outdoor recreational opportunities.
The state has no personal or corporate income tax, making it financially appealing for veterans on a fixed income. Additionally, disabled veterans may qualify for property tax exemptions, further easing financial burdens.
Healthcare access, however, can be a challenge in Wyoming. The state has a low population density, which means fewer VA medical facilities and longer travel distances for specialized care.
14: Alabama
Alabama presents a mixed landscape for military retirees. Some areas offer good healthcare access through VA facilities, while others struggle with wait times.
Job opportunities vary, mostly concentrated in urban centers like Huntsville and Birmingham. Community support through veteran organizations is strong, helping retirees connect.
Tax benefits, including property tax exemptions for disabled veterans, enhance financial stability. However, overall quality of care can be inconsistent, affecting retirees’ experiences significantly.
15: Michigan
Michigan offers both benefits and challenges for military retirees. The state provides financial advantages, including a full exemption of military pensions from state income tax, which can significantly enhance retirees’ financial stability.
Healthcare access varies across the state. While urban centers like Detroit and Grand Rapids offer multiple VA medical facilities and specialty care options, rural areas may lack sufficient healthcare infrastructure, leading to long travel times for medical services.
16: Massachusetts
Massachusetts provides military retirees with a mixed experience. Healthcare access varies, with some regions offering excellent facilities, while others struggle with wait times.
The state’s vibrant economy supports job opportunities in education and technology sectors, enhancing retirees’ financial stability.
Community organizations actively assist veterans, fostering a strong support network. The state also offers educational benefits, allowing retirees to pursue learning opportunities.
17: Ohio
Ohio presents a mixed landscape for military retirees. Access to healthcare varies significantly; some areas feature reliable VA facilities, while others often report long wait times for appointments.
Job opportunities exist in urban centers like Columbus and Cleveland, but rural locations struggle with employment options.
Community support from veteran organizations plays a crucial role in enhancing retirees’ quality of life. Tax benefits, including property tax exemptions, can improve financial stability for veterans.
18: Arizona
Arizona is an attractive state for military retirees due to its warm climate, veteran-friendly tax policies, and strong healthcare infrastructure.
The state fully exempts military pensions from state income tax, helping veterans maintain financial stability. Additionally, property tax exemptions are available for disabled veterans, reducing housing costs.
Healthcare access in Arizona is generally strong, with multiple VA medical centers and clinics spread across the state, including facilities in Phoenix and Tucson.
19: Oklahoma
Oklahoma offers mixed experiences for military retirees. Access to healthcare can be inconsistent, particularly in rural areas.
Community support from veteran organizations is crucial for navigating available resources. Job opportunities exist but may be limited compared to other states. Tax benefits, like property tax exemptions for disabled veterans, enhance financial stability.
20: Wisconsin
Wisconsin presents a mixed experience for military retirees. Access to healthcare varies significantly, with some areas lacking VA facilities. Community organizations offer vital support, but challenges remain in employment opportunities.
21: West Virginia
West Virginia provides a mix of benefits and challenges for military retirees. The state offers a relatively low cost of living, making it an affordable option for veterans on a fixed income.
Additionally, West Virginia exempts military pensions from state income tax, improving retirees’ financial stability.
Healthcare access in the state varies significantly. While there are several VA medical facilities, many rural areas lack sufficient healthcare infrastructure, requiring veterans to travel long distances for specialized care.
22: Maine
Maine offers military retirees a mixed experience. Healthcare access can be limited, particularly in rural areas where VA facilities are few.
Community organizations provide essential support, helping retirees navigate resources. However, job opportunities are scarce, affecting financial stability.
The state’s natural beauty promotes outdoor activities, appealing to those seeking an active lifestyle. Tax benefits for disabled veterans enhance affordability, though overall healthcare quality can vary significantly.
23: Montana
Montana provides military retirees with a blend of benefits and challenges. The state offers a property tax exemption for disabled veterans, helping to ease financial burdens.
Additionally, Montana does not tax military retirement pay, making it a favorable option for veterans looking to stretch their income.
24: Arkansas
Arkansas presents a mixed experience for military retirees. Access to quality healthcare services can vary, with some areas reporting longer wait times at VA facilities.
Community support from veteran organizations is valuable, helping retirees connect and navigate available resources. Job opportunities are limited, especially in rural regions, which can impact financial stability.
The state’s low cost of living and tax benefits, like property tax exemptions for disabled veterans, offer some relief. However, overall healthcare quality remains a significant concern for many retirees.
25: Kansas
Kansas presents military retirees with a mixed healthcare experience. Some areas boast access to VA facilities, yet wait times can be lengthy.
Community organizations offer essential support, helping retirees connect with resources. However, limited employment opportunities and economic growth can affect financial stability in many regions.
Tax benefits for veterans, including property tax exemptions, provide some financial relief.
26: Utah
Utah offers a mixed experience for military retirees, with both advantages and challenges. The state is known for its strong economy, job opportunities, and outdoor lifestyle, making it an appealing option for many veterans.
The cost of living is moderate, and the state’s vibrant economy provides good job opportunities in sectors like technology, healthcare, and education, benefiting retirees who are still seeking employment.
However, healthcare access for veterans can be a concern in some areas. While major cities like Salt Lake City have VA facilities, rural areas might lack sufficient services, making travel for care more difficult.
27: Louisiana
Louisiana presents military retirees with mixed experiences in healthcare and community support. Healthcare access varies, with some regions facing significant wait times for appointments.
Nonprofits and veteran organizations offer valuable assistance, helping retirees navigate local resources. Job opportunities in urban areas can be favorable, enhancing financial stability for some.
However, the state’s overall healthcare quality raises concerns, potentially impacting retirees’ well-being. Local veteran support networks foster community connections, promoting an active lifestyle through various events and programs.
28: Texas
Texas offers military retirees mixed experiences regarding healthcare and support. Some areas provide excellent access to VA facilities, while others struggle with long wait times.
Community resources, such as veteran organizations, play a vital role in helping retirees navigate available benefits.
Job opportunities exist but may vary widely across urban and rural regions. Overall, while Texas has advantages for military retirees, significant challenges remain in healthcare access and quality.
29: Hawaii
Hawaii presents military retirees with a unique blend of challenges and benefits. Healthcare access can be inconsistent across the islands, often leading to longer wait times.
Veterans may find fewer VA facilities compared to mainland states, creating potential difficulties in receiving timely care.
Community support from local veteran organizations enhances retirees’ experiences, offering vital resources and social connections.
Job opportunities in Hawaii are limited, primarily concentrated in tourism and service industries, which can affect financial stability for some retirees.
30: Missouri
Missouri offers military retirees a mixed experience regarding healthcare and community support. Access to VA facilities can be limited, especially in rural areas.
Many retirees report long wait times for appointments, impacting their quality of care. Community organizations provide essential resources but may vary in availability.
Job opportunities exist, particularly in urban centers like St. Louis and Kansas City, yet economic growth can be sluggish in other regions.
31: Kentucky
Kentucky offers military retirees a challenging healthcare landscape. Access to VA facilities is limited in rural areas, resulting in longer wait times.
Community organizations provide some support, but resources can be inconsistent. Job opportunities exist primarily in urban centers like Louisville, while smaller towns lack options.
However, the state offers property tax exemptions for disabled veterans, helping improve financial stability amidst these challenges.
32: Idaho
Idaho presents a mixed bag for military retirees. It offers limited VA facilities, impacting healthcare access significantly.
Many retirees report long wait times for care, exacerbating health challenges. Community support is available through local veteran organizations, but resources can be inconsistent.
Job opportunities vary, particularly in rural areas where employment options are sparse. Despite these challenges, Idaho’s cost of living remains relatively low, benefiting retirees financially.
33: Illinois
Illinois ranks among the least favorable states for military retirees due to a combination of factors. Despite having several veteran healthcare facilities, the state struggles with long wait times and inconsistent care.
The VA system in Illinois is often overwhelmed, resulting in delayed appointments and difficulty accessing timely medical services.
34: Georgia
Georgia presents military retirees with mixed experiences regarding healthcare access and community support. Some areas have excellent VA facilities, while rural regions often lack timely care.
Community organizations play a crucial role, though resource availability can vary. Job opportunities exist primarily in urban centers like Atlanta, yet rural areas struggle with employment options.
35: Delaware
Delaware offers a somewhat favorable environment for military retirees, especially in terms of financial benefits and quality of life. The state has no state sales tax, which can be a significant financial advantage for retirees.
Additionally, Delaware provides property tax exemptions for disabled veterans, which can ease the financial burden.
36: Indiana
Indiana offers military retirees a mix of benefits and challenges. Some VA facilities provide necessary healthcare services, but access to quality care can be inconsistent across the state.
Retirees often report longer wait times for appointments, impacting their overall experience. Community organizations play a crucial role in supporting veterans, offering resources and networking opportunities.
37: New York
New York presents military retirees with a mixed experience. Healthcare access can vary significantly, leading to inconsistent care quality across the state.
Many retirees face long wait times at certain VA facilities. Community organizations do assist but may lack comprehensive resources.
Job opportunities are available in urban areas, though rural locations often struggle. Tax benefits for veterans offer some financial relief, but overall support can be hit or miss, complicating retirement decisions for former service members.
38: New Jersey
New Jersey offers various benefits for military retirees, including housing support and financial resources. Veterans can access care at Veterans Memorial Homes in Menlo Park, Paramus, and Vineland.
These facilities are designed for honorably discharged wartime veterans, their spouses, and Gold Star parents.
Transitional housing options are available through Veterans Haven, with locations in Glen Gardner and Winslow.
39: Nebraska
Nebraska offers military retirees a mixed experience regarding healthcare and community support. Some areas provide access to VA facilities, but long wait times often frustrate retirees.
Community organizations assist with resources, enhancing quality of life. Employment opportunities exist in urban centers like Omaha and Lincoln, yet rural regions can lag behind.
Tax benefits, such as property tax exemptions for disabled veterans, improve affordability. However, overall healthcare quality varies significantly, impacting retirees’ well-being across the state.
40: Rhode Island
Rhode Island offers various benefits for military retirees, such as tuition waivers for disabled veterans and state tax exemptions. However, access to healthcare often varies, with long wait times at some facilities.
41: California
California offers military retirees a mix of experiences. Healthcare access varies widely, with some urban areas providing excellent facilities while rural regions struggle.
Community organizations help connect retirees to resources. Job opportunities abound, particularly in technology and defense sectors.
Tax benefits for disabled veterans enhance financial stability, though the high cost of living can be challenging for many retirees.
42: Colorado
Colorado offers military retirees a combination of benefits and challenges. VA healthcare facilities are present, but access varies, leading to potential wait times.
Community support exists through veteran organizations, yet employment opportunities can be inconsistent. Tax incentives for disabled veterans are available, aiding financial stability.
Despite its beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities, Colorado’s overall healthcare quality remains a concern, impacting retirees’ well-being.
43: Iowa
Iowa offers military retirees a mixed experience. Access to healthcare services can be inconsistent, with some areas lacking sufficient VA facilities.
Community organizations provide vital support, though resources may vary. Employment opportunities exist primarily in urban regions, yet rural areas face limitations.
Tax benefits for veterans, including property tax exemptions, enhance financial stability, but overall quality of care remains a concern for many retirees.
44: Tennessee
Tennessee offers military retirees a mixed experience regarding healthcare access and support. Some urban areas provide solid VA facilities, while rural regions may lack timely care.
Community organizations are active, assisting veterans with resources and social connections. Job opportunities can be competitive, especially in cities like Nashville.
Tax benefits, including exemptions for disabled veterans, help improve financial stability. However, overall healthcare quality can be inconsistent, affecting retirees’ well-being.
45: Mississippi
Mississippi presents military retirees with significant challenges, particularly in healthcare access. VA facilities are limited, leading to long wait times for essential services.
Community support from veteran organizations exists, but resources can be sparse. Employment opportunities remain limited, especially in rural areas, impacting overall financial stability.
Despite tax benefits for disabled veterans, the state’s healthcare quality raises concerns for many retirees.
46: Washington
Washington provides military retirees with a mix of benefits and challenges. Healthcare access can vary widely; some areas have excellent facilities, while others struggle with long wait times.
Community organizations assist veterans, but resources may be limited. Job opportunities exist primarily in urban centers like Seattle, though rural areas may offer fewer options.
Tax benefits for disabled veterans help improve financial stability, yet the overall healthcare quality can impact retirees’ experience significantly.
47: Nevada
Nevada presents military retirees with a mixed bag of experiences. Access to VA healthcare can be inconsistent, often leading to longer wait times for appointments.
Community support from veteran organizations exists but may vary in effectiveness. While job opportunities are available in cities like Las Vegas, rural regions often face limitations, impacting financial stability.
48: Vermont
Vermont offers limited benefits for military retirees, particularly in healthcare access and quality. Rural areas struggle with VA facilities, resulting in long wait times for essential services.
Community organizations provide some support, but resources can vary significantly. Job opportunities are few, particularly outside urban centers, impacting financial stability.
49: New Mexico
New Mexico presents military retirees with limited healthcare access and quality. Rural areas struggle due to scarce VA facilities, leading to extended wait times for appointments.
Community support exists, but resources may not meet demand. Job opportunities are limited, impacting financial stability for many retirees.
Tax benefits, like property tax exemptions for disabled veterans, offer some relief. Overall, the state poses significant challenges for military retirees seeking satisfactory healthcare and support.
50: Oregon
Oregon presents military retirees with noticeable challenges in healthcare access. Many areas struggle with limited VA facilities, resulting in long wait times for appointments.
Community support exists but can be inconsistent. Job opportunities remain scarce, affecting financial stability for many retirees.
While tax benefits, such as property tax exemptions for disabled veterans, provide some relief, overall conditions leave much to be desired for former service members seeking a favorable retirement location.
Alicia Richards