Which state is better for veterans — Missouri 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. Missouri does not tax military retirement pay, while Arizona does not tax military retirement pay. On property, Missouri offers a partial property tax reduction, and Arizona offers a partial property tax reduction.
If you have school-age children
Missouri's headline program is the Wartime Veteran's Survivor Grant Program — Up to $6,000/year of tuition/fees at Missouri public colleges for children/spouses of Missouri veterans killed or disabled (80%+) from service in combat zones since Sept 11, 2001. 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. Missouri hosts 2 significant installation(s) including Fort Leonard Wood, Whiteman AFB.Arizona hosts 4 including Luke AFB, Davis-Monthan AFB, Fort Huachuca.
Climate and lifestyle
Missouri: Continental climate with hot humid summers and cold winters; tornado risk in spring. Arizona: Hot desert summers and mild winters; minimal humidity. Higher elevations (Flagstaff, Prescott) offer four seasons.