Which state is better for veterans — Connecticut or Delaware?
There's no universal answer; the better state depends on your priorities. Below are the factors that most often decide the question.
If you're a military retiree
Both retirement income tax and property tax matter most in retirement. Connecticut does not tax military retirement pay, while Delaware taxes military retirement pay (delaware allows military retirees to exclude up to $12,500 of pension income (age 60+) and offers additional exclusions for younger retirees as of recent legislation.). On property, Connecticut offers a partial property tax reduction, and Delaware offers a partial property tax reduction.
If you have school-age children
Connecticut's headline program is the Connecticut State Universities & Community Colleges Tuition Waiver — Connecticut waives tuition (not fees) at state universities and community colleges for honorably discharged wartime veterans residing in CT, and for dependents of MIA/POW service members. Delaware's is the Delaware National Guard State Tuition Assistance — Up to 100% tuition assistance at Delaware state institutions for Guard members; education benefits also available for children of deceased Delaware veterans through the state's Educational Benefits for Children of Deceased Veterans program.
If you're still on active duty
Proximity to a major installation matters for housing markets, healthcare options (Tricare), and post-service employment networks. Connecticut hosts 1 significant installation(s) including Naval Submarine Base New London (Groton).Delaware hosts 1 including Dover AFB.
Climate and lifestyle
Connecticut: Four-season New England climate with cold winters and warm summers; convenient to Boston and NYC. Delaware: Mild mid-Atlantic climate with four moderate seasons.