Which state is better for veterans — Idaho 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. Idaho taxes military retirement pay (idaho allows a deduction for military retirement income for retirees age 65+ (or 62+ if disabled), with income limits.), while Arizona does not tax military retirement pay. On property, Idaho offers a partial property tax reduction, and Arizona offers a partial property tax reduction.
If you have school-age children
Idaho's headline program is the Idaho Veterans Recognition Scholarship — Idaho offers scholarships for dependents of veterans killed in action and tuition reductions for Idaho National Guard members; in-state tuition is granted to active-duty stationed in Idaho. 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. Idaho hosts 1 significant installation(s) including Mountain Home AFB.Arizona hosts 4 including Luke AFB, Davis-Monthan AFB, Fort Huachuca.
Climate and lifestyle
Idaho: Semi-arid to alpine climate; four distinct seasons with cold snowy winters and dry summers. Arizona: Hot desert summers and mild winters; minimal humidity. Higher elevations (Flagstaff, Prescott) offer four seasons.