Which state is better for veterans — Vermont 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. Vermont taxes military retirement pay (vermont allows up to $10,000 exclusion on military retirement pay (income-tested) as of 2022.), 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, Vermont offers a partial property tax reduction, and Delaware offers a partial property tax reduction.
If you have school-age children
Vermont's headline program is the Vermont National Guard Tuition Benefit — Vermont National Guard members qualify for tuition assistance at the University of Vermont, Vermont State Colleges, and Community College of Vermont up to 100%. 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. Vermont hosts 1 significant installation(s) including Vermont ARNG installations (no major active-duty base).Delaware hosts 1 including Dover AFB.
Climate and lifestyle
Vermont: Cold New England climate with snowy winters and mild summers; ideal for cold-weather outdoor sports. Delaware: Mild mid-Atlantic climate with four moderate seasons.