21 Top and Least Favorable States for Military Retirees

Military Officer Ahturner Shutterstock
image credit: Ahturner/Shutterstock

What factors make a state ideal for those who have served their country? Retirement for military veterans reveals a variety of state policies and local community support.

Each state offers a unique blend of benefits, tax exemptions, and quality of life that can significantly impact a veteran’s post-service years.

This comprehensive guide evaluates the best and worst states for military retirees, uncovering the complexities that define their retiree-friendliness.

Virginia

Mansion of US President and Founding Father Thomas Jefferson on his estate at Monticello Virginia eurobanks Shutterstock
image credit: eurobanks/Shutterstock

Virginia tops our list with its robust support for military retirees. The state boasts numerous VA hospitals and military bases, which facilitate access to healthcare and commissary privileges. Moreover, its rich historical ties to the military attract veterans who feel a deep connection to their service roots.

Florida

Orlando Lake Eola Florida Songquan Deng Shutterstock
image credit: Songquan Deng/Shutterstock

Florida’s lack of state income tax extends to military retirement pay, making it a financially wise choice for veterans. Its warm climate and veteran-friendly communities offer an appealing lifestyle post-service. The state also hosts a significant number of military bases, providing ongoing connections to military culture.

Alaska

Alaska Denali National Park Lukas Bischoff Photograph Shutterstock
image credit: Lukas Bischoff Photograph/Shutterstock

Alaska offers unique financial incentives, including no state income tax and a yearly dividend from oil revenues. The state’s vast landscapes provide a tranquil setting for those seeking peace after a bustling military career. However, the remote location might be a challenge for those accustomed to more urban environments.

South Carolina

Greenville, South Carolina at Falls Park Sean Pavone Shutterstock
image credit: Sean Pavone/Shutterstock

South Carolina prides itself on its military-friendly atmosphere, evidenced by its several military bases and strong community support networks. The state also offers substantial property tax exemptions for veterans. Nonetheless, veterans may find healthcare facilities less accessible compared to higher-ranked states.

Wyoming

Jackson Hole Snake River Overlook in Wyoming with the Grand Tetons aceshot1 Shutterstock
image credit: aceshot1/Shutterstock

With no state income tax and a low cost of living, Wyoming stands out as an affordable option for military retirees. Its natural beauty offers ample outdoor activities, which are perfect for those seeking a peaceful retirement. However, the sparse population can mean fewer social opportunities for veterans.

Alabama

Mobile, Alabama George Dodd III Shutterstock
image credit: George Dodd III/Shutterstock

Alabama provides generous tax breaks on pensions and has one of the lowest costs of living in the country. Its historic military sites and active National Guard offer a strong sense of community for retired servicemen and women. Healthcare access, however, does not meet the standards of some higher-ranked states.

Texas

El Paso Texas Sean Pavone Shutterstock
image credit: Sean Pavone/Shutterstock

Texas exempts military pensions from state income tax and offers a variety of veteran benefits, including property tax exemptions. The state’s large size and numerous military bases create a pervasive military presence and support network. However, the vast geography can mean longer travel times to VA healthcare facilities.

Oklahoma

Tulsa Oklahoma Sean Pavone Shutterstock
image credit: Sean Pavone/Shutterstock

Oklahoma’s low housing costs and tax exemptions on military retirement pay make it an attractive state for veterans. The state has a robust veteran community, bolstered by frequent social events and strong support networks. Veterans might find healthcare facilities less comprehensive than in more densely populated states.

Maine

Maine State House, in Augusta Mihai Andritoiu Shutterstock
image credit: Mihai Andritoiu/Shutterstock

Maine offers substantial tax benefits, including a significant exemption on military pensions. Its picturesque landscapes provide a serene environment for relaxation and rejuvenation after military life. The rural nature of the state, however, might limit access to specialized healthcare services.

Missouri

St. Louis Missouri James Roblee Shutterstock
image credit: James Roblee/Shutterstock

Missouri offers a full exemption from state income tax on military pensions, bolstering its appeal to retirees. The state has a rich history of military engagement, which continues to resonate with many retirees looking for a supportive community. Access to top-tier healthcare varies significantly by location within the state.

Nevada

Interstate 15 Nevada Las Vegas highway Toms Auzins Shutterstock
image credit: Toms Auzins/Shutterstock

Nevada’s lack of state income tax includes military pensions, making it a financially attractive option for retirees. The vibrant veteran communities in cities like Las Vegas and Reno provide ample opportunities for socializing and entertainment. However, the urban focus means rural veterans may feel isolated.

Pennsylvania

Pittsburgh Pennsylvania Sean Pavone Shutterstock
image credit: Sean Pavone/Shutterstock

Pennsylvania boasts rich American military history and several veteran-oriented programs. The state offers a retirement-friendly tax structure, though it’s less generous than some top-ranked states. Its varied climate and urban-rural divide can affect the living experience for veterans.

North Dakota

North Dakota State Capitol Building in Bismarck ND Dennis MacDonald Shutterstock
image credit: Dennis MacDonald/Shutterstock

North Dakota’s low population density ensures a quiet, peaceful setting for retirees. The state offers favorable tax treatment for military retirement pay, adding to its appeal. However, its harsh winters and remote locations can deter those used to more temperate or accessible locales.

Montana

Glacier National Park Montana kan khampanya Shutterstock
image credit: kan khampanya/Shutterstock

Montana’s appeal lies in its stunning natural beauty and absence of state sales tax. It’s an ideal locale for veterans who cherish privacy and outdoor activities. The limited number of VA facilities and long distances between communities can be challenging for some.

New Mexico

Hot Air Balloons over Rio Grande in New Mexico Albuquerque Greg Meland Shutterstock
image credit: Greg Meland/Shutterstock

New Mexico exempts military pensions from state income tax and has a high number of VA health facilities per capita. Its cultural diversity and rich history appeal to retirees seeking a vibrant community. However, the overall quality of life is impacted by higher crime rates in certain areas.

Michigan

Lake Michigan and Downtown Chicago Illinois JaySi Shutterstock
image credit: JaySi/Shutterstock

Michigan’s appeal includes diverse communities and scenic lakeside locations, perfect for those who love the water. The state provides tax exemptions for military pensions, making it financially viable for retirees. Veterans may find the cold winters and variable quality of healthcare challenging.

Kentucky

Louisville Kentucky Sean Pavone Shutterstock
image credit: Sean Pavone/Shutterstock

Kentucky offers no tax on military retirement pay and has a low cost of living. Its central location facilitates access to various regional VA hospitals. However, the state’s rural areas might not offer the same level of healthcare accessibility as urban centers.

Ohio

Cincinnati, Ohio Sean Pavone Shutterstock
image credit: Sean Pavone/Shutterstock

Ohio presents a supportive environment for military families, with several tax exemptions and a strong sense of community. The state’s diverse economy offers various opportunities for veterans looking to enter the civilian workforce. However, inconsistent healthcare quality across the state can be a concern.

Indiana

Indianapolis Indiana downtown Sean Pavone Shutterstock
image credit: Sean Pavone/Shutterstock

Indiana’s central location and lack of tax on military pensions attract many retirees. The state offers a strong community for veterans, including extensive support networks and social organizations. Healthcare accessibility, however, varies widely across the state, affecting retirees’ living conditions.

West Virginia

Charleston, West Virginia Wirestock Creators Shutterstock
image credit: Wirestock Creators/Shutterstock

West Virginia provides a peaceful, low-cost environment with no tax on military pensions. The state’s mountainous terrain offers privacy and solitude, ideal for those seeking a quiet retirement. However, the limited urban infrastructure can restrict access to specialized medical care and social activities.

California

San Francisco skyline and Bay Bridge California IM photo Shutterstock
image credit: IM_photo/Shutterstock

California ranks lowest for military retirees primarily due to its high cost of living and taxes. Despite this, it offers excellent healthcare facilities and a variety of lifestyle choices. Veterans looking to settle here must balance the high expenses against the benefits of living in this vibrant state.

Total
0
Shares
53 comments
  1. Thanks for the good writeup. It in fact was once a enjoyment account it. Glance advanced to more brought agreeable from you! By the way, how can we keep in touch?

  2. Superb website you have here but I was wondering if you knew of any community forums that cover the same topics talked about here? I’d really like to be a part of group where I can get advice from other experienced people that share the same interest. If you have any recommendations, please let me know. Cheers!

  3. Hey There. I found your blog using msn. That is a very smartly written article. I’ll make sure to bookmark it and come back to learn extra of your helpful info. Thank you for the post. I will certainly comeback.

  4. A large percentage of of whatever you claim happens to be supprisingly legitimate and it makes me ponder why I hadn’t looked at this with this light before. This particular piece truly did turn the light on for me personally as far as this particular topic goes. Nonetheless there is one particular point I am not necessarily too comfy with and whilst I attempt to reconcile that with the actual central theme of your position, allow me see what all the rest of your visitors have to say.Well done.

  5. Pretty section of content. I just stumbled upon your blog and in accession capital to assert that I acquire actually enjoyed account your blog posts. Anyway I’ll be subscribing to your augment and even I achievement you access consistently quickly.

  6. A large percentage of of the things you mention is supprisingly appropriate and it makes me ponder the reason why I hadn’t looked at this in this light before. Your piece truly did switch the light on for me personally as far as this subject goes. Nevertheless at this time there is one particular position I am not necessarily too comfortable with so whilst I attempt to reconcile that with the actual core idea of your point, let me observe just what the rest of the readers have to say.Nicely done.

  7. Excellent read, I just passed this onto a friend who was doing some research on that. And he just bought me lunch because I found it for him smile So let me rephrase that: Thank you for lunch! “The guy with the biggest stomach will be the first to take off his shirt at a baseball game.” by Glenn Dickey.

  8. Thanks , I’ve recently been searching for information about this subject for ages and yours is the greatest I’ve came upon till now. But, what in regards to the conclusion? Are you positive in regards to the supply?

  9. Hey There. I found your weblog the usage of msn. That is a very well written article. I’ll be sure to bookmark it and come back to read more of your useful information. Thanks for the post. I will certainly comeback.

  10. Having read this I thought it was very informative. I appreciate you taking the time and effort to put this article together. I once again find myself spending way to much time both reading and commenting. But so what, it was still worth it!

  11. Howdy are using WordPress for your site platform? I’m new to the blog world but I’m trying to get started and create my own. Do you require any html coding expertise to make your own blog? Any help would be greatly appreciated!

  12. Hi I am so thrilled I found your blog page, I really found you by accident, while I was looking on Askjeeve for something else, Regardless I am here now and would just like to say many thanks for a marvelous post and a all round entertaining blog (I also love the theme/design), I don’t have time to go through it all at the minute but I have bookmarked it and also added in your RSS feeds, so when I have time I will be back to read more, Please do keep up the fantastic work.

  13. Hey! I know this is kinda off topic but I’d figured I’d ask. Would you be interested in trading links or maybe guest writing a blog post or vice-versa? My blog discusses a lot of the same subjects as yours and I think we could greatly benefit from each other. If you’re interested feel free to shoot me an e-mail. I look forward to hearing from you! Terrific blog by the way!

  14. That is really interesting, You are an excessively skilled blogger. I have joined your feed and look forward to in quest of more of your wonderful post. Also, I have shared your site in my social networks!

  15. Hello, Neat post. There’s an issue with your website in web explorer, could test thisK IE still is the marketplace leader and a huge part of people will miss your great writing due to this problem.

  16. I was curious if you ever considered changing the structure of your website? Its very well written; I love what youve got to say. But maybe you could a little more in the way of content so people could connect with it better. Youve got an awful lot of text for only having one or 2 images. Maybe you could space it out better?

  17. I liked as much as you’ll receive performed right here. The sketch is tasteful, your authored subject matter stylish. however, you command get got an shakiness over that you would like be turning in the following. in poor health without a doubt come more previously again as exactly the same just about very regularly within case you protect this increase.

  18. You actually make it seem so easy with your presentation but I find this topic to be actually something that I think I would never understand. It seems too complex and very broad for me. I’m looking forward for your next post, I’ll try to get the hang of it!

  19. Throughout this grand scheme of things you’ll get a B+ for effort and hard work. Where you misplaced me personally was on the facts. You know, people say, the devil is in the details… And that could not be much more correct in this article. Having said that, permit me say to you precisely what did work. Your writing is actually incredibly powerful and that is probably why I am making an effort to comment. I do not really make it a regular habit of doing that. Second, despite the fact that I can see a leaps in reason you come up with, I am not necessarily convinced of how you appear to unite the ideas which in turn make the final result. For right now I shall yield to your position however trust in the near future you link your dots much better.

  20. Aavant produces the best photography, event and theatre backdrops in the world and works for almost all the biggest players in the world. Being in backdrops industry for last two decades it is the largest player in the world, providing highest quality backdrops to every buyer from USA to Australia.

  21. I’m really enjoying the design and layout of your site. It’s a very easy on the eyes which makes it much more enjoyable for me to come here and visit more often. Did you hire out a designer to create your theme? Great work!

  22. Hi, Neat post. There is a problem together with your website in web explorer, would test this… IE nonetheless is the marketplace chief and a big component of folks will pass over your great writing due to this problem.

  23. I am not sure where you are getting your info, but good topic. I needs to spend some time learning much more or understanding more. Thanks for fantastic info I was looking for this information for my mission.

  24. Thanks, I’ve recently been looking for information approximately this topic for a while and yours is the best I have came upon so far. However, what about the conclusion? Are you sure in regards to the source?

  25. It’s a pity you don’t have a donate button! I’d certainly donate to this brilliant blog! I guess for now i’ll settle for bookmarking and adding your RSS feed to my Google account. I look forward to brand new updates and will talk about this site with my Facebook group. Talk soon!

  26. I just couldn’t go away your web site before suggesting that I really enjoyed the standard information a person supply in your guests? Is gonna be back incessantly in order to inspect new posts.

  27. certainly like your web-site but you need to check the spelling on several of your posts. A number of them are rife with spelling issues and I find it very troublesome to tell the truth nevertheless I will certainly come back again.

  28. I like what you guys are up too. Such clever work and reporting! Carry on the superb works guys I have incorporated you guys to my blogroll. I think it will improve the value of my website 🙂

  29. Woah! I’m really enjoying the template/theme of this website. It’s simple, yet effective. A lot of times it’s challenging to get that “perfect balance” between superb usability and appearance. I must say you have done a awesome job with this. Additionally, the blog loads very fast for me on Firefox. Excellent Blog!

  30. I would like to thnkx for the efforts you’ve put in writing this website. I’m hoping the same high-grade website post from you in the upcoming as well. Actually your creative writing abilities has encouraged me to get my own site now. Actually the blogging is spreading its wings quickly. Your write up is a great example of it.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Previous Post
Happy Young Couple Home Buyer First Time Morgage Renting Moving in together Prostock studio Shutterstock

21 Major Cities in the US with Affordable Rent

Next Post
Business woman budget saving finance Dragana Gordic Shutterstock

21 Debt Fallacies Americans Must Reject Without Delay

Related Posts