Tampa Named Second-Best City for Veterans in New Survey

Tampa, Florida, has been recognized as the second-best city for veterans to live, according to a recent survey conducted by WalletHub. This survey evaluated the 100 largest cities in the United States based on 19 key factors that assess livability, affordability, and veteran friendliness. Austin, Texas, topped the list as the best city for veterans.

The survey highlighted several reasons for Tampa’s high ranking, including increasing income expectations for veterans, availability of military discounts, and a variety of veteran services. Chip Lupo, a WalletHub analyst, emphasized the importance of supportive environments for veterans returning from military service. He stated, “When veterans return home from serving our nation, it’s important for them to live in a place that provides good education and employment opportunities, along with access to quality care for their physical and mental health.”

Tampa’s Key Features for Veterans

Tampa’s position as the second-best city for veterans is underscored by various supportive infrastructures. The city ranks 29th in the number of arts and entertainment establishments offering military discounts. It also stands out with the eighth-highest number of restaurants providing such discounts. Additionally, Tampa boasts the sixth-most VA benefits facilities per capita and the third-most VA health facilities per capita in the country.

The survey also noted that nearly 17.6 million veterans currently reside in the United States, often facing challenges as they transition back to civilian life. While the unemployment rate for veterans is commendably low at 3.1%, compared to 4.3% for the overall population, issues such as veteran homelessness persist. According to WalletHub, around 33,000 veterans are homeless, highlighting the need for continued support and resources.

Top Cities for Veterans

The WalletHub survey identified the top five cities for veterans as follows:
1. Austin, Texas
2. Tampa, Florida
3. Madison, Wisconsin
4. Raleigh, North Carolina
5. Colorado Springs, Colorado

Orlando, Florida, also made the list, ranking seventh overall. The findings of this survey provide a valuable resource for veterans seeking communities that offer a blend of support, opportunities, and services tailored to their needs.

For a complete overview of the survey results and methodologies, visit WalletHub’s official website.