The Best Cities for Veterans to Live in 2024

Veterans transitioning to civilian life often face numerous challenges, not the least being the choice of where to reside. Factors such as job opportunities, community support, access to healthcare, and housing affordability are critical in making this decision. This comprehensive guide details some of the best cities in the United States for veterans to live in 2024, including current local information on housing markets, average home prices, nearby military bases, and available veteran resources.

1. San Antonio, Texas

Overview

San Antonio is renowned for its vibrant military community and historic sites, including the Alamo and the River Walk. The city is home to several military installations and has a rich cultural heritage that enhances the quality of life for veterans and their families.

Housing Market

Average Home Price: Approximately $290,000
The average home prices have seen a steady increase, with a yearly appreciation of about 5%. This affordability makes it an attractive option for transitioning veterans.
Popular Neighborhoods: Stone Oak, Alamo Ranch, and The Dominion are among the best neighborhoods, offering diverse options ranging from single-family homes to condos.
Currently, there is a healthy mix of market types available, including new developments, townhomes, and traditional homes.

Nearby Military Bases

Joint Base San Antonio: The largest joint military installation in the country, hosting Lackland Air Force Base, Fort Sam Houston, and Randolph Air Force Base. This base provides ample opportunities for veterans in both employment and healthcare.

Local Resources

San Antonio VA: Offers extensive medical services, counseling, and community programs tailored for veterans.
San Antonio Chamber of Commerce: Provides networking opportunities, business resources, and job placement assistance.

2. Colorado Springs, Colorado

Overview

Nestled at the base of the Rocky Mountains, Colorado Springs offers both natural beauty and a supportive environment for veterans. It hosts a dynamic military community with a variety of recreational opportunities, including hiking, skiing, and engaging in outdoor activities.

Housing Market

Average Home Price: Approximately $475,000
The local real estate market is competitive, experiencing a steady increase of about 10% annually. Many veterans appreciate the quality of life and community support in this region.
Popular Neighborhoods: Briargate, Old Colorado City, and the Garden of the Gods area provide a mix of suburban living and easy access to the outdoors.
Housing options range from single-family homes to modern condos and townhouses, catering to various preferences.

Nearby Military Bases

Fort Carson: A major Army installation providing a range of job opportunities and services for veterans.
U.S. Air Force Academy: Offers a unique environment for both service members and families.

Local Resources

Fort Carson: Includes transition services, employment assistance, and support programs for military families.
Pikes Peak Workforce Center: Offers tailored job-seeking services for veterans, including resume workshops and job fairs.

3. Norfolk, Virginia

Overview

Norfolk is a major naval hub known for its extensive maritime activities and military presence. The city has a diverse cultural landscape and offers numerous resources for veterans and their families, making it a favorable place to live.

Housing Market

Average Home Price: Approximately $300,000
The Norfolk housing market is stable, with home prices showing a modest increase of about 4% over the last year.
Popular Neighborhoods: Ghent, Ocean View, and Colonial Place are well-known for their historic charm and vibrant communities.
The city features a variety of homes, including historic properties and modern apartments, making it suitable for different lifestyles.

Nearby Military Bases

Naval Station Norfolk: The world’s largest naval base, offering ample career opportunities for veterans and active military personnel.

Local Resources

Norfolk VA Health Care System: Provides comprehensive healthcare services specific to veterans, including mental health support and rehabilitation programs.
Virginia Employment Commission: Offers various job placement services tailored to veterans, including training programs.

4. Tampa, Florida

Overview

Tampa is a vibrant city known for its warm climate, abundant recreational options, and rich military history. Home to MacDill Air Force Base, it combines scenic waterfront living with urban amenities and supportive communities for veterans.

Housing Market

Average Home Price: Approximately $360,000
The Tampa housing market has become competitive, with home prices rising around 6% recently due to an influx of new residents and military personnel.
Popular Neighborhoods: Westchase, Hyde Park, and New Tampa are desirable for their family-friendly environments and local amenities.
Options range from historic homes to modern condos, ensuring a variety of choices for different budgets.

Nearby Military Bases

MacDill Air Force Base: A central command base providing many employment and support options for veterans.

Local Resources

James A. Haley Veterans’ Hospital: Offers comprehensive medical services and specialized care for veterans.
Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce: Provides resources for job hunting and local networking events for veterans seeking employment.

5. Phoenix, Arizona

Overview

Phoenix is becoming increasingly popular among veterans due to its affordable cost of living and strong job market. Known for its sunny climate, the city offers a wealth of outdoor recreational activities, making it a wonderful place to settle.

Housing Market

Average Home Price: Approximately $468,000
The real estate market in Phoenix has seen pronounced growth, with a rise of 13% in the past year as demand for housing outstrips supply.
Popular Neighborhoods: Arcadia, Desert Ridge, and Downtown Phoenix appeal to families and young professionals alike.
Housing options vary widely, including single-family homes, townhomes, and luxurious condos.

Nearby Military Bases

Luke Air Force Base: A crucial training base providing numerous opportunities and services for veterans and military families.
Davis-Monthan Air Force Base: Offers a range of support services and employment options.

Local Resources

Phoenix VA Health Care System: Provides an extensive range of health services for veterans.
Arizona Department of Veterans’ Services: Offers resources and programs tailored to the needs of Arizona’s veteran community.

6. Seattle, Washington

Overview

Seattle combines a bustling metropolitan vibe with stunning natural scenery, making it appealing for veterans who want access to urban amenities and beautiful landscapes. The city hosts a variety of industries, primarily in technology and healthcare.

Housing Market

Average Home Price: Approximately $900,000
Seattle’s housing market is one of the most expensive in the country, with a price increase of about 8% over the past year.
Popular Neighborhoods: Capitol Hill, West Seattle, and Ballard offer unique cultural experiences, diverse dining options, and beautiful parks.
The city has a mix of historic homes, modern apartments, and waterfront properties.

Nearby Military Bases

Naval Base Kitsap: Close to Seattle, it offers various job opportunities and facilities for veterans.

Local Resources

Seattle VA Medical Center: Comprehensive healthcare services tailored for veterans.
Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs: Offers programs and services for veterans throughout the state.

7. Charleston, South Carolina

Overview

Charleston is famous for its historic architecture, beautiful coastline, and rich military history. With Joint Base Charleston nearby, the city offers a supportive community for veterans.

Housing Market

Average Home Price: Approximately $450,000
The Charleston housing market is competitive with a recent price increase of approximately 5%.
Popular Neighborhoods: Mount Pleasant, Downtown Charleston, and James Island each offer unique living experiences and amenities.
The area features a variety of historic homes, modern condos, and new developments to meet diverse housing needs.

Nearby Military Bases

Joint Base Charleston: Offers extensive support services and employment opportunities for military personnel and veterans.

Local Resources

Charleston VA Medical Center: Provides tailored healthcare services for veterans.
South Carolina Department of Veterans’ Affairs: A resource for veterans to access assistance programs and benefits.

8. Austin, Texas

Overview

Austin is celebrated for its vibrant culture, music scene, and growing tech industry. Known as a military-friendly city, Austin offers extensive resources for veterans and a rich community atmosphere.

Housing Market

Average Home Price: Approximately $600,000
The Austin housing market has experienced rapid growth, with prices increasing around 9% last year due to a population surge.
Popular Neighborhoods: South Congress, Mueller, and Westlake are trendy for their amenities, schools, and access to parks.
The market provides various living options, from historic houses to contemporary apartments.

Nearby Military Bases

Fort Hood: Located roughly 70 miles outside of Austin, it’s one of the largest army installations in the world and a significant resource for veterans and military families.

Local Resources

Austin VA Outpatient Clinic: Offers a full range of health services for veterans.
Texas Veterans Commission: Provides advocacy initiatives, benefits, and resources tailored to veterans.

9. Boise, Idaho

Overview

Boise offers a balanced lifestyle with its mix of urban living and nearby natural beauty. With a growing economy, it is becoming a favored location for veterans seeking affordability and community support.

Housing Market

Average Home Price: Approximately $440,000
Boise’s housing market has seen prices jump around 15% in the past year due to increased demand and migration to the area.
Popular Neighborhoods: Downtown Boise, North End, and Boise Bench, known for their parks, schools, and community resources.
The market offers various home types, from single-family houses to townhomes.

Nearby Military Bases

Mountain Home Air Force Base: Approximately 40 miles from Boise, providing career opportunities and extensive support programs for veterans.

Local Resources

Boise VA Medical Center: Offers a broad spectrum of healthcare services specifically for veterans.
Idaho Division of Veterans Services: Provides resources and assistance programs for veterans throughout the state.

10. Nashville, Tennessee

Overview

Nashville is known for its vibrant music scene and thriving economy. The city also has a growing veteran community, making it an appealing location for those looking for employment and community support.

Housing Market

Average Home Price: Approximately $480,000
Nashville’s housing market has become competitive, seeing a price increase of about 7% in recent years due to an increase in population and job opportunities.
Popular Neighborhoods: East Nashville, Midtown, and The Gulch are popular for their vibrant atmospheres and accessibility to entertainment and dining.
The city provides various housing types, from modern condominiums to historic homes.

Nearby Military Bases

Fort Campbell: Located around 60 miles from Nashville, Fort Campbell offers career resources and facilities for veterans.

Local Resources

Nashville VA Medical Center: Provides healthcare services, including specialized programs for veterans.
Tennessee Department of Veterans Services: Offers multiple support programs, benefits, and resources for veterans.

VA Loans

VA loans, backed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, are designed to help veterans, active-duty service members, and eligible surviving spouses obtain affordable home financing. VA loans offer numerous benefits that make them an attractive option for those who have served in the military. Here’s a detailed overview of the key features, benefits, and eligibility requirements of VA loans:

Key Features

No Down Payment:
- VA loans allow eligible borrowers to finance up to 100% of the home’s purchase price, eliminating the need for a down payment. This feature makes homeownership more accessible to veterans.
No Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI):
- Unlike conventional loans, VA loans do not require PMI. This can save borrowers a substantial amount on their monthly mortgage payments, making housing costs more manageable.
Competitive Interest Rates:
- VA loans often come with lower interest rates compared to conventional loans. This translates to lower monthly payments and reduced overall loan costs.
Flexible Credit Requirements:
- While individual lenders may have specific guidelines, VA loans generally have more lenient credit requirements, providing opportunities for veterans with less-than-perfect credit scores to qualify.
Limited Closing Costs:
- VA regulations limit the amount lenders can charge in closing costs, and some fees may be waived altogether for eligible veterans. This ensures that home buying remains affordable.
VA Funding Fee:
- VA loans do incur a funding fee, which helps support the loan program. The fee typically ranges from 2.3% to 3.6% of the loan amount, depending on factors such as the veteran’s military service and whether it’s the borrower’s first VA loan. Importantly, this fee can be rolled into the loan amount, reducing upfront costs.
Assumable Loans:
- VA loans are assumable, meaning that if a veteran sells their home, the new buyer can take over the existing VA loan, potentially at a lower interest rate.

Eligibility Requirements

Service Requirements:
- Veterans must meet specific length and type of service requirements to be eligible. Generally, veterans who have served 90 days of active service during wartime or 181 days during peacetime are eligible. Additionally, certain reservists and National Guard members may also qualify after six years of service.
Certificate of Eligibility (COE):
- To access VA loan benefits, eligible borrowers must obtain a COE. This document confirms the veteran’s eligibility and can be requested through the VA’s website or applied for via their lender.
Credit and Income Requirements:
- While VA loans have flexible credit requirements, individual lenders may have their minimum criteria. Generally, lenders prefer a credit score of at least 620. Steady income and a manageable debt-to-income ratio are also essential for qualification.

The VA Loan Process

Obtain Your COE: Start by applying for a Certificate of Eligibility through the VA website or through your lender.
Shop for a Lender: Choose a lender who specializes in VA loans. Not all mortgage lenders offer VA loans, so it’s advisable to find one that does.
Get Preapproved: Before house hunting, obtain a preapproval. This will give you a clearer understanding of your budget and strengthen your position with sellers.
Find Your Home: Work with a real estate agent familiar with VA loans and your local market to find suitable properties.
Submit Your Loan Application: After choosing a home, submit your loan application to your lender. They will guide you through the necessary documentation and appraisal process.
Closing: Once your loan is processed and approved, you’ll go through the closing process. This includes signing paperwork and officially taking ownership of your new home.

Conclusion

Choosing the right city to call home is crucial for veterans as they transition into civilian life. Each of the cities in this guide offers unique advantages, from strong military communities to ample resources that cater to the needs of veterans and their families.

With access to VA loans and supportive networks, veterans can find affordable housing and enjoy fulfilling lives in communities that appreciate their service. Whether seeking the energetic atmosphere of Austin, the historical depth of Charleston, or the stunning landscapes of Colorado Springs, veterans will find welcoming cities that facilitate smooth transitions and rich opportunities for growth and success.

Researching local resources, community programs, and housing options will empower veterans to make informed decisions about where to establish their new lives.