5 Best Cities for Military Retirees

Military veterans have long been searching for the best places to plant stronger roots and create a sense of familiarity for themselves and their families. 

Among all the places, San Antonio (Texas), Tampa (Florida), Colorado Springs (Colorado), Virginia Beach (Virginia), and San Diego (California) are considered the best cities for military retirees.

Here is what each of them offers

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1. San Antonio, Texas – “Military City USA”

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San Antonio is often the first choice for military retirees, and for good reason. Home to Joint Base San Antonio and a thriving community of veterans, this city is deeply rooted in military culture.

• Life & Community: San Antonio offers a warm, family-friendly environment, a low cost of living compared to other big cities, and a strong support network for veterans. The community understands military life, making it easy to connect and feel at home.
  
  
• Economic Benefits: Texas does not levy state income tax, which allows retirees to keep more of their pension. The city also has affordable housing options, from suburban family homes to modern apartments.
  
  
• Social Security & Healthcare: With the VA Medical Center and several military hospitals, retirees have access to top-notch healthcare. Social programs and veteran organizations are abundant, making San Antonio a safe and supportive place to retire.
  

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2. Tampa, Florida 

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Florida has long been a retirement haven, and Tampa stands out for veterans who want a mix of sunshine, beaches, and strong veteran support.

• Life & Community: Tampa offers year-round warm weather, access to Gulf Coast beaches, and a laid-back lifestyle. It’s also family-friendly, with cultural activities, sports, and great schools for those raising children.
  
  
• Economic Benefits: Florida also has no state income tax, making it especially appealing for retirees drawing a pension. Housing is more affordable compared to Miami or Orlando, and the job market offers opportunities for second careers.
  
  
• Social Security & Healthcare: Tampa is home to James A. Haley Veterans’ Hospital, one of the largest VA medical centers in the country. Social and veteran support groups are widespread, ensuring retirees don’t feel isolated.
  

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3. Colorado Springs, Colorado

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For those who prefer mountains over beaches, Colorado Springs is a natural fit and one of the best retirement cities for military retirees. Surrounded by the Rockies, this city blends scenic living with a strong military presence.

• Life & Community: The city offers breathtaking views, outdoor activities, and a slower pace of life compared to Denver. With several military bases nearby, including Peterson and Fort Carson, the veteran community is large and supportive.
  
  
• Economic Benefits: Colorado has a relatively low property tax rate, though the cost of housing has risen in recent years. Still, military retirees find solid job opportunities in defense, aerospace, and education.
  
  
• Social Security & Healthcare: Colorado Springs is well-equipped with VA facilities and healthcare centers. State laws also provide partial tax exemptions on military retirement pay, which helps reduce financial strain.
  
  

4. Virginia Beach, Virginia

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Virginia Beach is not just a tourist spot it’s also a fantastic city for military retirees thanks to its strong ties to the armed forces.

• Life & Community: With its coastal lifestyle, family-friendly environment, and countless outdoor activities, Virginia Beach offers a balance of leisure and community. Military families make up a large portion of the population, which strengthens the sense of belonging.
  
  
• Economic Benefits: Virginia exempts part of military retirement pay from state taxes, which helps stretch pensions further. The housing market is competitive but offers diverse options, from waterfront homes to suburban neighborhoods.
  
  
• Social Security & Healthcare: The Hampton VA Medical Center and nearby naval bases ensure retirees have access to quality medical services. Veteran associations are active, giving retirees resources for social and professional growth.
  
  

5. San Diego, California

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San Diego may be pricier than other cities on this list, but its lifestyle and strong military foundation make it one of the most appealing choices for retirees.

• Life & Community: Known for its perfect weather, beaches, and cultural diversity, San Diego is ideal for veterans who want an active lifestyle. It also has one of the largest concentrations of military personnel in the U.S.
  
  
• Economic Benefits: While California taxes pensions, San Diego offers opportunities in technology, healthcare, and defense industries for veterans seeking post-military careers. Housing costs are high, but the quality of life makes up for it for many families.
  
  
• Social Security & Healthcare: San Diego has multiple VA medical centers and veteran support groups. The military presence in the region ensures retirees always have access to community programs, social support, and healthcare.

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Also read - Military pay raises are determined under the Employment Cost Index

Comparing the Cities

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Each of these five best cities for military retirees stands out for different reasons.

• For Cost of Living: COLA San Antonio and Tampa offer the best balance of affordability and benefits, especially with no state income tax.
  
  
• For Lifestyle: Colorado Springs appeals to those who love nature and mountain life, while San Diego and Virginia Beach are perfect for ocean lovers.
  
  
• For Healthcare & Veteran Support: Tampa and San Antonio shine with some of the country’s strongest VA hospitals and medical facilities.
  
  

For Economic Opportunities: San Diego offers the widest career opportunities, though housing is costly, while San Antonio offers both jobs and affordable living.

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Final Thoughts

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Choosing among the best cities for military retirees ultimately comes down to what feels like home affordability, lifestyle, healthcare, and community. And for many military retirees, these five cities provide the perfect foundation to plant stronger roots and thrive.

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FAQ'S

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Where is the best place to live as a military retiree?

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The best place to live as a military retiree is Florida, thanks to its no state income tax, affordable cost of living, strong VA healthcare network, and large veteran community.

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Which state is best for military retirees?

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Virginia is often ranked the best state for military retirees because of its high veteran population, access to military bases, strong healthcare services, and numerous job opportunities for veterans.

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Where is the cheapest place to live for military retirees?

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The cheapest place to live for military retirees is Oklahoma, offering low housing costs, affordable healthcare, and veteran-friendly tax policies that stretch retirement income further.

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What state loves veterans the most?

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Alaska is considered the state that loves veterans the most, providing extensive veteran benefits, high VA healthcare quality, property tax exemptions, and strong community support for former service members.

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