A report from WalletHub places Tampa as the second-best city to live in the country for veterans, while St. Petersburg came in at No. 8.
TAMPA, Fla. — The Tampa Bay area’s two biggest cities are considered among the top 10 best cities for veterans to live in the U.S., according to a new study.
A report from WalletHub places Tampa as the second-best city to live in the country for veterans, while St. Petersburg came in at No. 8.
The study compared the 100 largest U.S. cities across 19 key indicators that revolve around livability, affordability and veteran-friendliness. They range from the share of military skill-related jobs to veteran income growth to the availability of VA health facilities.
WalletHub notes that while the veteran unemployment rate is at 3.1%, there are a reported 33,000 veterans who are unhoused in the country. There are a reported total of 17.6 million veterans in the U.S.
“These veterans often face a host of challenges when re-entering civilian life,” the study reads. “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.”
Tampa: 2nd best US city for veterans
WalletHub says Tampa’s rising income expectations is a top reason for the city to come in at second place.
The city’s median annual income for veterans grows by an average of over 6% per year, the 24th-highest percentage in the country. The current median income is reportedly around $53,000.
Tampa also has the sixth-most VA benefits facilities per capita, the third-most VA health facilities per capita, the second-best VA medical facilities and the 11th-most available beds per capita.
St. Pete: 8th best US city for veterans
Falling only six spots below Tampa, the study explains St. Pete is ranked with the 11th-best employment, 53rd-best economy, 16th-best quality of life and 16th-best health for U.S. veterans.
Where did other cities rank?
Topping Tampa with the No.1 spot in the study is Austin, Texas, mostly due to having the best colleges for veterans in the country, along with the 10th-highest median annual income for veterans, at around $62,000.
Other notable Florida cities ranked in the study include Orlando (No. 7), Miami (No. 13) and Jacksonville (No. 18).
The worst city for veterans to live in the U.S., according to the study, is Newark, New Jersey.