This Southern State Was Ranked The Best Place For Veterans To Live In America
The brave men and women who serve in America's armed forces deserve more than just our respect—they also deserve to retire in a supportive environment that caters to their unique needs.
Unfortunately, some states provide more resources for veterans than others. In an effort to help members of America's military community choose where to settle down, WalletHub recently conducted a study to determine which states provide the best lives for veterans. Using 28 key metrics—ranging from veterans per capita to the number of VA health facilities—they ranked all 50 states based on their best ability to provide a comfortable military retirement.
'Transitioning from military to civilian life isn't easy, but the best states for military retirees make that adjustment as smooth as possible,' WalletHub analyst Chip Lupo said in a news release. 'In addition to providing the conditions necessary for our veterans to thrive financially, they also have ample resources for taking care of military retirees' physical and mental health.'
The U.S. state to come out on top for military retirees is South Carolina, thanks in large part to the numerous policies it has in place to help veterans.
'The state allows businesses to give preferential hiring to veterans, offers academic credit for military service, and has veteran treatment courts, which give services like treatment and mentoring to veterans in the criminal justice system,' WalletHub's report explains. 'South Carolina doesn't tax military pensions, either.'
Other South Carolina standouts include having the third-best VA hospitals in the country, and the second-most hospitals per capita. The Palmetto State also boasts the seventh-most veterans per capita and the second-most veteran-owned businesses per capita, which, according to analysts, 'indicates that military retirees have good social and business opportunities' there.
According to a new study from Veterans United Home Loans, the largest VA lender in the U.S., South Carolina is also home to the best U.S. city for veteran homebuyers: Myrtle Beach.
'With over 28,000 veterans living in the area, making up nearly 8% of the population, this region offers a strong sense of community and a lifestyle built around support and sunshine,' a news release says.
Thank you, South Carolina, for taking care of our heroes.
Related: 40 Favorite Veterans Day Quotes To Show Gratitude
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