Which state is better for veterans — West Virginia or Arkansas?
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. West Virginia does not tax military retirement pay, while Arkansas does not tax military retirement pay. On property, West Virginia offers a full homestead exemption to 100% P&T veterans, and Arkansas offers a full homestead exemption to 100% P&T veterans.
If you have school-age children
West Virginia's headline program is the WV War Orphans Educational Assistance — Free tuition and fees at West Virginia public colleges for children of WV veterans who died in service or from service-connected causes. Arkansas's is the Arkansas Department of Higher Education Veteran Tuition Waiver — Children and spouses of veterans who were killed in action, MIA, or POW, and dependents of 100% disabled veterans, qualify for free tuition at Arkansas state-supported colleges and universities.
If you're still on active duty
Proximity to a major installation matters for housing markets, healthcare options (Tricare), and post-service employment networks. West Virginia hosts 1 significant installation(s) including WV ARNG installations (no major active-duty base).Arkansas hosts 3 including Little Rock AFB, Pine Bluff Arsenal, Camp Robinson (ARNG).
Climate and lifestyle
West Virginia: Appalachian humid subtropical climate with four moderate seasons; mountainous terrain. Arkansas: Humid subtropical climate with four mild seasons; the Ozarks offer cooler summers.