Best Cities for Veterans to Live 2025
Even if you’ve lived in the same city for years while serving, transitioning to civilian life might have you rethinking where you want to be. Maybe you’re looking for better job opportunities, a lower cost of living, or a strong veteran community.
Finding the right place to start this next chapter can make all the difference. To help with your search, here are 10 cities ranked as some of the best places for veterans in 2025.
Check your VA home buying eligibility. Start here (Mar 16th, 2025)Top 10 cities for veterans
1. Austin, Texas
- Austin is home to top-ranked institutions, including The University of Texas at Austin, that offer dedicated support and resources for veterans.
- Austin has the ninth-highest median annual income for veterans in the U.S., exceeding $59,000.
- The city’s tech industry and growing economy make it an ideal place for veterans seeking new career opportunities.
2. Orlando, Florida
- Orlando has been recognized for its low veteran unemployment rates. In 2020, it had the lowest rate among the 100 largest U.S. metropolitan areas.
- The Orlando VA Medical Center provides a wide range of services, and is the fourth largest VA medical facility in the country.
3. Raleigh, North Carolina
- Raleigh’s cost of living is on par with national averages, making it an affordable option for veterans.
- Veterans in Raleigh can utilize NCWorks Online, which gives them access to job postings 24 hours before everyone else. And programs like Work for Warriors North Carolina can assist with resumes and interview prep.
- For those seeking healthcare services, the Durham VA Medical Center offers comprehensive care tailored to the needs of veterans.
4. Tampa, Florida
- Tampa has been recognized as the best city in the U.S. for veterans to live.
- The city has numerous employment opportunities for veterans, as it’s the fourth hottest job market in the U.S.
- The city provides excellent access to healthcare through the James A. Haley Veterans’ Hospital, one of the largest VA medical centers in the country.
5. Virginia Beach, Virginia
- Approximately 14.4% of Virginia Beach residents are veterans, reflecting a strong military presence, and the median home sale price is around $366,000, making homeownership accessible.
- The city’s coastal location provides a relaxing environment with outdoor activities like beach access, parks, and hiking.
- Veterans have access to the Hampton VA Medical Center and a Community-Based Outpatient Clinic in Virginia Beach.
6. Irvine, California
- The unemployment rate stands at 3.8%, which is below the state and national averages.
- Along with being one of the best places for veterans, Irvine has also been recognized as one of the best cities to live in for nine consecutive years.
- Irvine can access to two nearby VA medical centers. The Long Beach VA Medical Center, about 20 miles away, and the Santa Ana VA Medical Center, located around 15 miles away.
7. Scottsdale, Arizona
- The city has a welcoming environment with beautiful weather and outdoor activities like hiking, making it an attractive place for veterans to relax and stay active.
- The cost of living is also reasonable compared to other major cities in the U.S.
- Veterans can take advantage of local resources such as the Phoenix VA Health Care System.
8. Madison, Wisconsin
- Local veteran resources are plentiful. This includes assistance programs through the Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs, as well as local organizations that help with job placement and transition services.
- Madison’s cost of living is lower than other major cities which makes it an ideal location for veterans looking for affordable housing.
- Veterans can also receive quality healthcare, with nearby VA outpatient clinics at the University of Wisconsin Hospital.
9. Saint Petersburg, Florida
- The cost of living is affordable, and St. Petersburg’s coastal location offers a relaxing environment with abundant recreational activities, from beaches to parks.
- With an unemployment rate of about 3.2% in the St. Petersburg metro area, veterans have access to opportunities in industries like healthcare, technology, and education.
- The Bay Pines VA Healthcare System located just 15 miles away.
10. Jacksonville, Florida
- One of the most affordable options among top-ranked cities, which makes it easier for veterans to live comfortably.
- The city is home to a large veteran community, with many military retirees calling Jacksonville home. As of 2023, approximately 10.2% of the city’s population, or about 76,470 individuals, are veterans.
- Veterans can take advantage of local resources such as the Jacksonville Veterans Affairs Outpatient Clinic, which provides a range of healthcare services.
What makes these cities stand out
When looking at the top cities for veterans, they all share features that make transitioning to civilian life easier.
First off, a strong job market is a huge plus. Many of these cities have booming local economies with opportunities in tech, healthcare, and service industries. This means that veterans can find work that matches their skills and allows room for growth.
Another major factor is the easy access to quality healthcare. Many of these cities have VA hospitals or clinics close by, which is important for veterans who need ongoing or consistent medical care.
Affordable housing is another standout feature. These “best cities” tend to offer a range of housing options that fit different budgets. This is especially important for veterans who might be adjusting to a new financial reality after leaving the military.
Lower living costs and fair housing prices can help ease the stress of starting over and make it easier to build a stable life in a new community.
Local veteran support programs and community groups are another plus. Some cities also have organizations that focus on helping veterans adapt, providing everything from job training and networking opportunities to social events and counseling.
Before relocating, visit the area and talk to local veterans to see if the community matches what you’re looking for.
How to apply for a VA loan
Applying for a VA loan is a straightforward process:
- Step #1: Confirm your eligibility by reviewing VA guidelines. This can determine if you qualify based on your service length, discharge status, and other criteria.
- Step #2: Apply for your COE through the VA’s online portal or through your lender. The COE proves you meet the eligibility requirements for a VA loan and allows you to proceed with the process.
- Step #3: Research and choose a VA-approved lender. They can guide you through the process and answer questions about completing the application and submitting documentation.
- Step #4: Provide financial documents such as income, debts, and credit history to the lender. Getting pre-approved provides an estimate of how much you can borrow and strengthens your offer when house hunting.
- Step #5: Once pre-approved, start searching for a home that fits your needs and budget. When you find the right one, make an offer. Your real estate agent can help with the details.
- Step #6: After a buyer accepts your offer, the lender will order a VA appraisal to ensure the home meets the minimum standards. Underwriting will then review your financials to make sure everything is in order before proceeding.
- Step #7: The final step is closing, which is when you’ll sign the paperwork, finalize your loan, and get the keys to your home.
Bottom line
Choosing the right city can make all the difference in your transition to civilian life, so don’t forget to research local resources before making a decision. When you’re ready to buy, speak with a VA-approved lender early to understand your options.
