Which state is better for veterans — New Hampshire 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. New Hampshire does not tax military retirement pay, while Arizona does not tax military retirement pay. On property, New Hampshire offers a partial property tax reduction, and Arizona offers a partial property tax reduction.
If you have school-age children
New Hampshire's headline program is the New Hampshire Tuition Waiver for Children of Veterans — Free tuition at NH state colleges/universities for children of NH veterans who died from service-connected causes, MIA, POW, or are 100% disabled. 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. New Hampshire hosts 2 significant installation(s) including Portsmouth Naval Shipyard (ME/NH border), NH ARNG installations.Arizona hosts 4 including Luke AFB, Davis-Monthan AFB, Fort Huachuca.
Climate and lifestyle
New Hampshire: Cold New England climate with snowy winters and warm summers; outstanding outdoor recreation. Arizona: Hot desert summers and mild winters; minimal humidity. Higher elevations (Flagstaff, Prescott) offer four seasons.