The Best City For Veterans To Live Is...

The East Coast and Midwest rank high among the best places for veterans and active duty military personnel to live, according to a new survey from Veterans United Home Loans.

For its 2024 Best Cities for Veterans to Live list, the company analyzed more than 500 metropolitan markets based on 25 factors, including cost of living, crime, housing affordability and the presence of a strong veteran community.

On the new list, Tampa was ranked as the top destination for veterans and military personnel. Rounding out the top 10 were Rochester, Minnesota; Wichita Falls, Texas; Fargo, North Dakota; Virginia Beach, Virginia; Watertown, New York; Charleston, South Carolina; Medford, Oregon; Altoona, Pennsylvania; and Sioux Falls, South Dakota.

“Our in-depth analysis factors in feedback and priorities from hundreds of Veterans we surveyed, so we can really dig into what those who serve are looking for when it comes to planting roots and building communities,” said Chris Birk, vice president of mortgage insight at Veterans United. “These cities, both big and small, are great places to raise a family, offer healthy job markets, an abundance of outdoor activities to enjoy for those kicking off the next chapter after the military and provide ample opportunities to connect with fellow veterans.”