In honor of Veterans Day, Livability.com has selected the 10 best places for military veterans to live – whether they are looking to retire or start a second career.
Syracuse was the only city from New York state to make the list, ranking seventh. Fayetteville, N.C., ranked first, followed by Colorado Springs, Col., in second and San Angelo, Tex., in third.
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Fayetteville, NC
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Colorado Springs, CO
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San Angelo, TX
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Carlisle, PA
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Madison, WI
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Topeka, KS
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Syracuse, NY
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Kenner, LA
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Tuscon, AZ
10.Cheyenne, WY
Cities were chosen based on quality-of-life attributes that appeal to veterans such as moderate climate, low cost of living and unemployment rate, as well as availability of outdoor recreational opportunities and cultural amenities. Additional consideration was given to cities with proximity to military installations and VA hospitals.
“We know it’s important for veterans and their families to have access to quality medical care and social services, so we chose cities with excellent health-care systems and VA hospitals,” said Livability.com spokesman John Hood. “The cities on this list also tend to be more diverse, have excellent school systems and higher education options and greater opportunities for post-military employment.”
Livability.com editors also looked at cities close to military bases, which give veterans access to other resources such as free legal advice and counseling, discounted food and household goods at the base commissary, and equipment rentals, Hood said.
“One thing all 10 cities have in common is their inclusive nature and a proven history of community support for military families,” Hood said.
According to Livability.com, Syracuse offers veterans a variety of quality-of-life amenities. There are 11 colleges in Syracuse and the surrounding area, and the economy is supported by education, health care, science and research. New York state does not tax federal pensions, and home prices in Syracuse have remained stable.
The more than 40 golf courses in the area, a year-round professional opera company, 50 parks and nature centers and the Erie Canal also contributed to the city’s high ranking. Syracuse is home to Syracuse VA Medical Center and is only 80 miles from Fort Drum.
