Find a Job You Really Want In
Are you a veteran wondering which states offer the best job opportunities post-discharge? In 2026, navigating the job market continues to present challenges, but veterans possess unique advantages. Recent labor statistics indicate that veteran unemployment rates have significantly improved, with only 3.5 percent unemployed compared to 4.2 percent for non-veterans.
Despite their military training and strong work ethic, veterans often face hurdles when transitioning to civilian roles. To assist you in this journey, we analyzed various data points to identify the states that facilitate an easier transition for the 70 percent of veterans who report a smooth shift into civilian employment.
The top five states may surprise you, especially considering Hawaii’s known high cost of living and Utah’s unique culture.
It’s important to note that this ranking evaluates states based on their ability to provide job opportunities for veterans entering the civilian workforce for the first time, rather than for those seeking retirement benefits.
While employers increasingly recognize the skills and discipline veterans bring, challenges such as skills mismatches and acclimatization can complicate the hiring process. However, hiring veterans not only supports their transition but also enriches the workplace with reliable employees dedicated to high standards.
Discover below what criteria contribute to a state making this prestigious list.
How We Determined the Rankings
We evaluated six key employment and income factors impacting working veterans and weighted them to derive an overall score. A lower index indicates a better environment for veterans. Our focus included working veterans from all ranks and branches, ensuring that rural communities were also considered.
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1. Employment Rate
We analyzed Bureau of Labor Statistics data on veteran unemployment rates by state, comparing them to non-veteran populations. This factor reflects the strongest indicator for working veterans of all ranks, not just retirees or officers. — 4 points
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2. Wages
We assigned points based on median incomes for veterans by state, recognizing that a fully employed veteran workforce is only beneficial if wages are competitive. — 2 points
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3. Cost of Living
We considered the cost of living in each state, ensuring that veterans’ earnings provide a reasonable quality of life. — 2 points
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4. Training and Education Benefits
We examined how much funding each state received from the VA for education and employment resources per veteran, which is crucial for those looking to work and live outside urban areas. — 2 points
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5. Veteran Population
Using 2014 US Census data, we assessed what percentage of each state’s population comprises veterans. — 1 point
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6. Number of VA Hospitals
Even though our ranking emphasizes working-age veterans, access to VA medical facilities remains critical. We reviewed the number of VA Medical Centers in each state per million residents. Although this benefits less populated states, it holds minimal impact on job opportunities, receiving lower weight. — 1 point
Curious if your state ranks among the best? An extended table of our findings is available at the bottom of this page. But first, here’s a closer look at our top five states:
1. Alaska
Alaska ranks as the best state for veterans seeking employment, boasting one of the lowest veteran unemployment rates and some of the highest median incomes in the nation. The absence of state income tax and unique benefits like a 25 percent discount on state land purchases for veterans further enhance its appeal.
Quick tip: when enjoying the great outdoors, remember to respect wildlife—especially bears!
2. Hawaii
Despite its distance from the mainland, Hawaii offers veterans one of the lowest unemployment rates and a high median income of $45,000, significantly higher than $30,000 for non-veterans. While the cost of living is notably high, the military-friendly environment, with nearly 18 percent of the workforce comprising veterans and military personnel, makes it an attractive option.
3. Virginia
Virginia stands out as a military state with a robust support system for veterans. With a high number of VA facilities and significant VA funding per veteran, it maintains low unemployment rates and high median incomes, making it a prime location for veterans transitioning to civilian life.
4. New Hampshire
New Hampshire features the second-lowest unemployment rate for veterans and offers a high median income. With no state income tax and a considerable veteran community, it distinguishes itself as the only state in the Northeast to make the top 15 for veteran employment opportunities.
5. Utah
Utah combines a low unemployment rate for veterans with a high median income, partly due to significant VA funding per veteran. The state also offers the Accelerated Credentialing Program (ACE), allowing veterans to receive credit for military experience when pursuing state licenses or education, enhancing their employability.
Conclusion
Overall, states with low veteran unemployment rates often excel in balancing high median incomes and reasonable costs of living. While some states shine in specific areas, others provide consistent advantages across the board. The good news is that veteran employment rates are on the rise, making it a promising time for those seeking opportunities.
For a comprehensive list of rankings, continue reading below, and explore more resources at Zippia.
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Detailed Ranking of the Best States for Veterans Seeking Employment
| Rank | State |
|---|---|
| 1 | Alaska |
| 2 | Hawaii |
| 3 | Virginia |
| 4 | New Hampshire |
| 5 | Utah |
| 6 | Texas |
| 7 | South Dakota |
| 8 | Georgia |
| 9 | Tennessee |
| 10 | Maryland |
| 11 | Washington |
| 12 | Arkansas |
| 13 | Indiana |
| 14 | Vermont |
| 14 | New Mexico |
| 16 | Missouri |
| 17 | Colorado |
| 18 | Arizona |
| 19 | Delaware |
| 20 | North Dakota |
| 21 | Rhode Island |
| 22 | Nebraska |
| 23 | Maine |
| 24 | Michigan |
| 25 | Nevada |
| 26 | Idaho |
| 27 | Alabama |
| 28 | Oklahoma |
| 29 | Florida |
| 30 | Kentucky |
| 31 | North Carolina |
| 32 | Wyoming |
| 33 | Connecticut |
| 34 | Iowa |
| 35 | Kansas |
| 36 | South Carolina |
| 37 | Montana |
| 38 | Mississippi |
| 39 | Massachusetts |
| 40 | Ohio |
| 41 | West Virginia |
| 42 | New Jersey |
| 43 | Louisiana |
| 44 | California |
| 45 | New York |
| 46 | Illinois |
| 47 | Wisconsin |
| 48 | Oregon |
| 49 | Pennsylvania |
| 50 | Minnesota |
Author
David Luther was the Content Marketing Editor for the Zippia Advice blog. He developed partnerships with external reporting agencies in addition to generating original research and reporting for the Zippia Career Advice blog. David obtained his BA from UNC Chapel Hill.
