2018’s Best & Worst Places for Veterans to Live

Wallet Hub, Nov 5, 2018

According to the Veterans Association, there are over 19.6 million veterans currently living in the U.S. These veterans often face a host of challenges when re-entering civilian life. Despite Uncle Sam’s promises to provide health care as well as housing, employment and educational assistance upon their return from service, some cannot secure healthcare, jobs or shelter.

Where veterans live can contribute to the problem. Although unemployment and homelessness have declined nationally for this group, such issues are simply worse in certain parts of America. Throughout the U.S., 40,000 veterans still find themselves without a home. However, there is some good news on the healthcare front. 71 percent of V.A. hospitals have improved their conditions over the past year. Plus, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit recently ruled that chronic pain without a clear medical diagnosis still qualifies veterans for disability benefits. This will provide over 11,000 veterans previously denied coverage with some much-needed assistance.

To help military veterans find the best places in which to settle down roots based on their status, WalletHub compared the 100 largest U.S. cities across 18 key indicators of livability, affordability and veteran-friendliness. They range from share of military skill-related jobs to veteran income growth to availability of VA health facilities….

read … Full Report

HONOLULU, HI

• Overall Rank (1 = Best) -- 64th
• Total Score -- 50.96
• ‘Jobs’ Rank -- 44th
• ‘Economy’ Rank -- 98th
• ‘Quality of Life’ Rank -- 8th
• ‘Health’ Rank – 72nd
• Homeless Veterans per Veteran Population – 90th (3rd highest)

Related: Honolulu VA Medical Center Among Worst 30% -- again