Which state is better for veterans — Delaware or Arizona?
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. 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.), while Arizona does not tax military retirement pay. On property, Delaware offers a partial property tax reduction, and Arizona offers a partial property tax reduction.
If you have school-age children
Delaware's headline program 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. Arizona's is the Arizona National Guard Tuition Reimbursement Program — Reimburses tuition for Arizona National Guard members at state schools. Veterans can use the Post-9/11 GI Bill at Arizona public colleges with in-state tuition under the Yellow Ribbon and federal Choice Act.
If you're still on active duty
Proximity to a major installation matters for housing markets, healthcare options (Tricare), and post-service employment networks. Delaware hosts 1 significant installation(s) including Dover AFB.Arizona hosts 4 including Luke AFB, Davis-Monthan AFB, Fort Huachuca.
Climate and lifestyle
Delaware: Mild mid-Atlantic climate with four moderate seasons. Arizona: Hot desert summers and mild winters; minimal humidity. Higher elevations (Flagstaff, Prescott) offer four seasons.