Which state is better for veterans — Washington 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. Washington does not tax military retirement pay, while Arizona does not tax military retirement pay. On property, Washington offers a partial property tax reduction, and Arizona offers a partial property tax reduction.
If you have school-age children
Washington's headline program is the Washington State Tuition Waiver for Veterans and Dependents — Public colleges and universities in Washington waive up to 50% of operating fees and tuition for honorably discharged veterans with Iraq/Afghanistan service, and waive 100% tuition for dependents of KIA/100% disabled WA veterans. 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. Washington hosts 5 significant installation(s) including Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Naval Base Kitsap (largest naval base on West Coast), Naval Station Everett.Arizona hosts 4 including Luke AFB, Davis-Monthan AFB, Fort Huachuca.
Climate and lifestyle
Washington: Mild marine climate west of the Cascades (rainy winters, dry summers); semi-arid in the east. Arizona: Hot desert summers and mild winters; minimal humidity. Higher elevations (Flagstaff, Prescott) offer four seasons.