The Best and Worst States for Military Retirees Are Both in New England

Turns out New England delivers both ends of the spectrum when it comes to military retirement: Here’s how the data shook out, Wallethub-style.

New Hampshire: A Top-Tier Haven

New Hampshire ranks 3rd overall for military retirees. According to Wallethub, not only does the state skip taxing military pensions, but it also ranks 11th in the nation for mental health counselors per capita—making it easier for veterans to access the help they need, including their VA facility in Manchester.

We might as well include that the state is one of the few that offers zero state income tax and no sales tax. All those mountain trails and lakeside towns don’t hurt either—it’s peaceful with perks.

Vermont: Bottom of the Barrel

Next door, things are quite a bit different. Vermont comes in almost dead last, ranked 49th overall thanks to low scores in economic environment, quality of life and a big factor, healthcare.  Even with scenic charm and tight-knit communities, the state appears to struggle with affordability and support.

WalletHub evaluates factors like cost of living, healthcare access (including VA facilities), employment, and community resources. New Hampshire nails the combo of low taxes, solid job markets, and decent VA support.. Vermont? Beautiful, yes, but not as veteran-savvy when it comes to tax breaks and service availability.

If you’re a military retiree, or know one, aiming for a smooth transition—think job prospects, tax savings, and healthcare—you’d likely be happiest in New Hampshire. 

Here’s a look at how things played out in the rest of the country.