Life after military service can be somewhat complicated. If you have spent years serving in the United States armed forces, adjusting to civilian life is often challenging. You might face physical health challenges, emotional difficulties, or even career questions. This transition becomes even more complicated when a family is added to the mix.
Florida is a great state to settle down in if you are a veteran. There is a reason why a large percentage of the population is on the older side. The weather is warm, the taxes are limited, and the existence of essential community services makes it ideal for people who want to enjoy their later years.
Finding the right place to settle after military service is the key to enjoying life as a civilian. After all your sacrifices to serve, you deserve the best chance at happiness and comfort. Here are a few tips for settling down in the state of Florida after serving in the United States military.
When you think about settling down, the first image that pops into your head is probably a house. Finding a home creates a place of safety and security for yourself and your family. Fortunately, the Department of Veterans Affairs can play a big role in helping you secure a house. This is primarily accomplished with VA loans in Florida. If you qualify for a VA loan, you can enjoy numerous benefits, including no down payment, lower interest rates, and no private mortgage insurance premiums. As a result, buying a home in Florida is far more affordable with a VA loan than it would be with a conventional mortgage, giving you a sense of financial security and empowerment.
Before you even consider what type of house to live in, you have to choose what community in Florida will best support your needs and lifestyle. The Sunshine State is brimming with veteran-friendly communities and cities, so researching the local amenities should be part of your journey toward settling down.
Orlando is one of the largest cities by population in the state, and it features some of the best veteran support services in the state. The strong local economy also provides plenty of job opportunities for veterans. Tampa is another excellent option for veterans. MacDill Air Force Base has helped create a robust military community in the city, with excellent hospitals and VA clinics throughout the city. Lastly, Jacksonville is perfect for veterans seeking a low cost of living. Plus, with the existence of Naval Air Station Jacksonville and the Jacksonville Naval Hospital, the network of veteran resources is incredible.
Another characteristic of Florida that makes it perfect for veterans who want to settle down is its medical care network. Seven VA medical centers throughout the state are located in Bay Pines, Gainesville, Lake City, Miami, Orlando, Tampa, and West Palm Beach. In addition to these hospitals, there are over 50 outpatient clinics in the state for primary care. Outside the VA network, there is also a high-quality healthcare system that many older residents rely on for medical services. The VA works hard to support veterans over 65, and a vast healthcare network in Florida is crucial to their efforts.
One of the main concerns for many veterans transitioning to civilian life is career prospects. Many former military service members struggle to find a niche where their skills translate to a job in the private sector. Fortunately, Florida provides a strong economy where veterans can apply their experiences to find successful careers.
There are several industries that are thriving in the Sunshine State. Real estate is a massive sector in Florida, especially in terms of short-term and long-term rentals. Healthcare and social assistance are also healthy industries because of the large population of older residents. Finance, government jobs, and hospitality are also growing sectors in this state that could be a source of employment. St. Petersburg is a particularly viable community for veterans with a low unemployment rate and many veteran-owned businesses.
As you can see, Florida is the perfect landing spot for veterans searching for a home. There are multiple cities with extensive healthcare networks, strong economies for career opportunities, and desirable lifestyles for aging individuals. The VA is a vital resource no matter where you settle down. It can give you access to career counseling, medical care, assistance with home loans, and even small business support. As you navigate the transition to civilian life after military service, lean on these resources and research the community you would like to live in to ensure it can meet your needs as a veteran.
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