What are the best Cities or States where retired military or veterans can get the best bang for their buck?

COL Mikel J. Burroughs — Fri, 12 Jun 2015 19:05:28 -0400

Share a picture of the place you want to retire to! Do you have a favorite?

List the ones that you think should be added and send a picture of that location! Even if it is overseas!

I would like to retire in Belize!

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 12 at 2015 9:10 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 12 Jun 2015 21:10:20 -0400

No cities! To many people! Middle of nowhere Oregon for me!!! Or the Bahamas!

Response by PO1 John Miller made Jun 13 at 2015 1:02 AM

PO1 John Miller — Sat, 13 Jun 2015 01:02:25 -0400

My city made #26!

Response by SrA Monty Jones made Oct 24 at 2017 7:17 AM

SrA Monty Jones — Tue, 24 Oct 2017 07:17:02 -0400

Las Cruces, New Mexico. The city is in Southern New Mexico and has over 300 days a year of sunshine. It is near White Sands Missile Range, Ft. Bliss and Holoman Air Force Base. A V.A. clinic is in town and a V.A. hospital is 45 miles away in El Paso TX. The town is full of retired veterans and is military friendly.

Response by PO1 William "Chip" Nagel made Oct 24 at 2017 12:29 PM

PO1 William "Chip" Nagel — Tue, 24 Oct 2017 12:29:10 -0400

COL Mikel J. Burroughs Unfortunately No Way they would let Me Retire at Diego Garcia. Now that is Heaven on Earth. As Far as Cost of Living, I've Spent Some time in Florida and it is Fairly Reasonable.

Response by SP5 Mark Kuzinski made Oct 24 at 2017 12:47 PM

SP5 Mark Kuzinski — Tue, 24 Oct 2017 12:47:00 -0400

I didn't s see Hartland Michigan on the list. What gives!

Response by COL Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 24 at 2017 1:32 PM

COL Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 24 Oct 2017 13:32:35 -0400

Something to consider: http://www.military.com/benefits/military-pay/state-retirement-income-tax.html

State Retirement Income Tax

Some States exempt all or a portion of military retired pay from income taxation.

Response by SP5 Peter Keane made Oct 24 at 2017 1:35 PM

SP5 Peter Keane — Tue, 24 Oct 2017 13:35:32 -0400

May I ask why Belize ?

Response by SGT Robert Hawks made Oct 24 at 2017 4:28 PM

SGT Robert Hawks — Tue, 24 Oct 2017 16:28:21 -0400

I would recommend any city that has a VA regional Hospital and offices. Let’s face it we will all get old and need medical help and the VA medical fees are small and some are even free.

Response by SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth made Oct 24 at 2017 4:52 PM

SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth — Tue, 24 Oct 2017 16:52:20 -0400

Don't know of too many around me, if they have a good income coming in, there are a couple of places on the lakeshore they could check out.

Response by A1C Dustin DeMoss made Oct 24 at 2017 4:53 PM

A1C Dustin DeMoss — Tue, 24 Oct 2017 16:53:04 -0400

I know it's kind stupid considering the price of this place but I love Carlton Landing in Oklahoma because I'm a sucker for architecture and the community planning of this place is amazing. If you visit it, the downtown reminds you of something like a medieval village with modern architecture. I love this place so much. But it's a bit out of my price range.

Response by PO3 Steven Sherrill made Oct 24 at 2017 4:57 PM

PO3 Steven Sherrill — Tue, 24 Oct 2017 16:57:59 -0400

COL Mikel J. Burroughs here in the U.S. I would want to go somewhere that doesn't get hurricanes, has good riding weather all year, and I won't have to mortgage my child to buy a gallon of gas. Dream retirement place for me though would be Iceland. I would trade year round riding for Blue Lagoon and Northern Lights.

Response by MSgt Stephen Council made Oct 24 at 2017 5:00 PM

MSgt Stephen Council — Tue, 24 Oct 2017 17:00:22 -0400

COL Mikel J. Burroughs I'm with you. I will be the second hut on the left with a boat beached in front.

Response by SSG Steven Mangus made Oct 24 at 2017 6:01 PM

SSG Steven Mangus — Tue, 24 Oct 2017 18:01:14 -0400

Texas, some of the best veterans benefits nation wide..

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 24 at 2017 7:41 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 24 Oct 2017 19:41:25 -0400

Where I want to and where I will are two entirely different things. Where I want is Germany, specifically in the Bavarian area in the little town of Garmisch. Where I will probably end up is either Pocatello or Omaha.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 24 at 2017 8:16 PM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 24 Oct 2017 20:16:28 -0400

We have not fully decided as of yet. For sure, a home base here in (nothern) Colorado, West side of Weld County. For a winter home, definitely in the tropics. I am leaning towards the South Pacific, Kittery has her heart set on the mid to west end of Isla Roatan.

What attracts you to Belize COL Mikel J. Burroughs?

Response by SCPO Morris Ramsey made Oct 24 at 2017 8:57 PM

SCPO Morris Ramsey — Tue, 24 Oct 2017 20:57:45 -0400

COL Mikel J. Burroughs You might consider the Rio Grande Valley. From Brownsville to Roma. Texas Tropics. Cost of living is good, no state taxes. Two VA clinics two international airports. Easy access to Mexico where drugs and dentist are cheap. Valley of Two Summers.

Response by Maj Marty Hogan made Oct 24 at 2017 10:49 PM

Maj Marty Hogan — Tue, 24 Oct 2017 22:49:38 -0400

Not going anywhere- if I had my choice. Key West.

Response by MSgt George Cater made Oct 25 at 2017 8:19 AM

MSgt George Cater — Wed, 25 Oct 2017 08:19:28 -0400

I’m from Florida and that’s where we chose for domicile in permanent retirement. We like the Tampa area (MacDill AFB) and no income taxes. But actually we chose an option of mobility. Get tired of a place? Explore a new one or go back to an old favorite.

Response by LTC Stephen F. made Oct 25 at 2017 11:15 AM

LTC Stephen F. — Wed, 25 Oct 2017 11:15:51 -0400

At this point I am looking at central Pennsylvania. eastern Tennessee and western North Carolina because of climate, lower cost of living [than Washington, D.C. area] and tax breaks fro retired military and disabled veterans.
My wife is leaning towards Virginia and Pennsylvania because she wants to be close to her son whom I adopted long ago. I know that in modern times grown men tend to move so I am not inclined to living near any of my four adult sons just because they are there currently. They are included in our family trust and I will support them as I am able - through prayer and finances at times.
For health reasons I need to avoid very sunny areas and for peace of mind I avoid living where alligators and crocodiles live [they kill over 2,000 people per year] and I don't want my visiting grandchildren to be threatened by alligators, caimans, etc. [I swam with alligators in the military a couple times and my sons teased alligators when they were spending time in Florida.
FYI LTC Stephen C. Capt Seid Waddell Capt Tom Brown SFC William Farrell SSgt Robert Marx Maj Marty Hogan PO1 William "Chip" Nagel SPC Margaret Higgins MSgt Jason McClish AN Christopher Crayne LTC Bill Koski SPC Tom DeSmet SGT Charles H. Hawes LTC Wayne Brandon SGT Private RallyPoint Member SGT Michael Thorin

Response by SPC Margaret Higgins made Oct 25 at 2017 11:20 AM

SPC Margaret Higgins — Wed, 25 Oct 2017 11:20:28 -0400

COL Mikel J. Burroughs: I WOULD LOVE TO RETIRE TO STINSON BEACH, CALIFORNIA!
MIKEL, HAVE A VERY, VERY BLESSED DAY- Margaret

Response by Maj Bill Smith, Ph.D. made Oct 25 at 2017 12:50 PM

Maj Bill Smith, Ph.D. — Wed, 25 Oct 2017 12:50:14 -0400

Take a look - or relook-- at the North Central Arkansas Ozarks. 25 yrs ago, I started looking for a retirement dream location. We relocated 23 yrs ago from Florida where I was a Univ. professor. I wanted to invest in ourselves by building our own home. I found the Arkansas Ozarks was where land was and still is cheaper, except for isolated Appalacia area, and government beuracracy was at a minimum. We left a tax free state and had to pay income taxes in Arkansas even on military pay. However the total cost, especially with lower property tax which is frozen at age 65, the total cost was far cheaper than Florida, and other states we considered. The Good News - beginning on Jan 1, 2018, military and military retirement pay is no longer taxed in AR!

As I said, we moved from Florida. Like others with careers in the military, we had lived in numerous states / locations. I loved Montana but it was too isolated and to far from our children and extended family. After visiting and researching, we found the the North central Ozark Mountain full of lage lakes and rivers. We bought land and moved to a Baxter County, AR, and build our dream home.
I know building is not the desire for many people - there are lots of homes in the Mountain Home, AR area. Baxter County has families and retirees relocating here from all over the US.

The county has two large federal lakes (Norfork and Bull Shoals), the White River (famous for its trout records, rainbow and browns, the Norfork River and the Buffalo National River -- all in one county. And, it now has all the amenities.: a great hospital, lots of doctors, VA clinic, a new University built after we arrived, the first worlds largest WalMart was build here :). Once that was built, eveything else arrived and new business continue to be added. We have numerous military orgs: Legion, VFW, etc.).

To get more information on the North Central Arkansas and South Central Missouri Ozark area, go to the following site: http://gilbertrealty.com. The site is designed for ease with retirees in mind! There is a link to checkout ALL property and homes for sale in the MLS regardless of the agency listing the property (including land, homes, commercial, etc.) There is a Community Info Page with lots of links to information asked by people visiting the area. There is is a page with numerous Youtube video with links to lots of online videos - some talk about the fishing, hunting, the lakes and area.

Full disclosure: I DO NOT sell real estate! Some of you know I am in my "maturing years" and am a national blogger. But I did design the site for Gilbert Realty -- not to be glitzy but to be focused on those who wished to consider relocating to the North Central Ozark Mountains to enjoy the mtns, lakes and rivers and all that the area and outdoors has to offer. It is designed for people who didn't want to be in discussions with a real estate agent until they decided to contact one - hopefully at Gilbert Realty. Note there are NO tracking codes on this site. However, we all know Google tracks us all :) Again, I am sharing this info only because The North Central Arkansas Ozarks is a great place to live.

Mountain Home Real Estate - Gilbert Realty Co., Ranked First in Real Estate Sales & Listings -...

Gilbert Realty - Mountain Home - Real Estate - Ranked First in Real Estate Sales and Listings - Free Retirement and Tourist Information for Mountain Home Twin Lakes Area, North Central Ozark Mountains, Arkansas. Excellence in Real Estate Customer Service. Multiple Listings - property: Homes, acreage, lots, land, farm, farms, ranch, commercial, business, lake side, river front, resorts, White River, Mountain Home, Lakeview, Bull Shoals, Bull...

Response by SSgt Boyd Herrst made Oct 25 at 2017 1:24 PM

SSgt Boyd Herrst — Wed, 25 Oct 2017 13:24:27 -0400

@ J; I was assigned to Langley AFB (Langley-Eustis was only a dream then)
Deployed several times and when I wasn-t on class. 1 team to deploy 1st.. I got around as much as I could... a lot of good History in the area.. places to go..
Of

Response by 1stSgt Nelson Kerr made Oct 25 at 2017 1:51 PM

1stSgt Nelson Kerr — Wed, 25 Oct 2017 13:51:51 -0400

Think about Adelaide Australia, but it looks lime my wifre has Seoul in miond so it looks like Seoul when she retires

Response by PO1 Don Gulizia made Oct 25 at 2017 2:07 PM

PO1 Don Gulizia — Wed, 25 Oct 2017 14:07:34 -0400

Looking at eastern Tennessee.

Response by Sgt John H. made Oct 25 at 2017 2:14 PM

Sgt John H. — Wed, 25 Oct 2017 14:14:02 -0400

Big Island. Hawaii, Hawaii!

Response by SPC Douglas Bolton made Oct 25 at 2017 2:29 PM

SPC Douglas Bolton — Wed, 25 Oct 2017 14:29:38 -0400

COL Mikel J. Burroughs Anywhere in Hawaii.

Response by Sgt Albert Castro made Oct 25 at 2017 2:57 PM

Sgt Albert Castro — Wed, 25 Oct 2017 14:57:55 -0400

Funny you should bring up this topic Colonel. Just last night I read an article on "Safest Cities" in the U'S'. This elitist online magazine showed the real disconnect the elite have with "Fly Over America". They actually rated Chicago as the safest town in America (if you stay within the 19 block radius of the river front business district). New York was second. LMAO Really guys?! I choose San Antonio because I grew up here. Regrettably we now pay the 5th or 6th highest property taxes in the country. We've been thinking of building a home on our ranch. My property taxes are ridiculously low out there. I say live where your heart sends you. Happy retirement y"all

Response by Sgt Albert Castro made Oct 25 at 2017 3:16 PM

Sgt Albert Castro — Wed, 25 Oct 2017 15:16:26 -0400

Hey Colonel Burroughs, Belize, really? You can't ride that Harley very far before you run out of road. Really beautiful place there for sure.

Response by PO3 John Wagner made Oct 25 at 2017 5:22 PM

PO3 John Wagner — Wed, 25 Oct 2017 17:22:51 -0400

Take a number brother.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 25 at 2017 5:54 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 25 Oct 2017 17:54:11 -0400

I don't know the best, but I always wanted to live near a lake or river (Staunton River) which I do, and in a rural setting (Long Island, VA). A no traffic light town. I live on 5.4 acres of mostly trees and no neighbors. Nice and quiet. I can go out my back door and look, a firing range

Response by GySgt Melissa Gravila made Oct 25 at 2017 7:43 PM

GySgt Melissa Gravila — Wed, 25 Oct 2017 19:43:57 -0400

I dont know... but Ive been told EVERYBODY comes to Florida (veteran or not). I do have a question, why can't I get a hunting license during tourist season ??? Hhhhmmmmm
(Insert sarcastic font here please)
S/F

Response by SFC William H. made Oct 25 at 2017 7:45 PM

SFC William H. — Wed, 25 Oct 2017 19:45:08 -0400

Belize? Just one question: Have you read the DOD country study? You might want to look at Uruguay. However, keeping mom happy will prevail.

Response by SSG Diane R. made Oct 25 at 2017 7:52 PM

SSG Diane R. — Wed, 25 Oct 2017 19:52:49 -0400

Coata Rica used to be good. Ecuador is a close second.

Response by AN Christopher Crayne made Oct 25 at 2017 8:17 PM

AN Christopher Crayne — Wed, 25 Oct 2017 20:17:35 -0400

US Virgin Islands. Would be nice.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 25 at 2017 8:21 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 25 Oct 2017 20:21:06 -0400

I would love to get back down to Florida and find a nice house on a lot of land...can’t wait!

Response by AN Christopher Crayne made Oct 25 at 2017 8:21 PM

AN Christopher Crayne — Wed, 25 Oct 2017 20:21:42 -0400

San Antonio, TX
Advantages for military retirees:
High number of defense contracts and jobs that require military skills, convenient base amenities, local VA hospital, affordable standard of living, no state tax on military retirement pay.

Response by LTC Jeff Shearer made Oct 25 at 2017 8:26 PM

LTC Jeff Shearer — Wed, 25 Oct 2017 20:26:55 -0400

COL maybe Cabo San Lucas, however, I am pretty sure that is not reasonable
Colorado, the Dakotas, Wyoming I am want to go some where a little cooler than the deep south and remote. I don't really care to move to the desert. I like a little green and trees.

Response by CPO Charles Helms made Oct 25 at 2017 8:33 PM

CPO Charles Helms — Wed, 25 Oct 2017 20:33:30 -0400

A deserted island in the South Pacific!!! But Milton Fl. isn't that bad!!

Response by SPC(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 25 at 2017 8:40 PM

SPC(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 25 Oct 2017 20:40:44 -0400

Utah is pretty awesome. Great outdoors, skiing/snowboarding, hunting is great. Then the southern part of the state has some amazing canyons and desert scenery.

Response by William Andrew Wilson made Oct 25 at 2017 8:43 PM

William Andrew Wilson — Wed, 25 Oct 2017 20:43:15 -0400

Coast of Georgia.....close to growing Army, Navy, DHS, major airports, and the a few of the wealthiest zip codes on the East Coast.

Response by SPC Diana D. made Oct 25 at 2017 8:52 PM

SPC Diana D. — Wed, 25 Oct 2017 20:52:11 -0400

You can move to Oklahoma. Taxes are fairly inexpensive, housing prices are reasonable, there is a VA Hospital in Muskogee and VA clinics in Tulsa and you can have neighbors like we do!!!

Response by LTC Conrad Novack made Oct 25 at 2017 9:01 PM

LTC Conrad Novack — Wed, 25 Oct 2017 21:01:23 -0400

It may seem like a cliche', but Killeen.....the gate town of Fort Hood, Texas has a very large retired military population, due to the size of Fort Hood. Relations between the civilian and military communities are very good, here.....but my choice was pretty well made for me because when I retired from the Army, I came back to Killeen to marry the woman I met while I was on active duty with the Second Armored Division. She is a Killeen girl, having gone through schools here, and was even Miss Killeen of 1965. How could I miss?

Response by LTC Wayne Brandon made Oct 25 at 2017 9:09 PM

LTC Wayne Brandon — Wed, 25 Oct 2017 21:09:47 -0400

I'm thinking about Greenville, SC, the location of Tabernacle Baptist College & Seminary where I would enjoy closing out my days teaching doctrinal and theological studies. Additionally, it puts me between my son and his family in Augusta, GA and my daughter and her family in Charleston, SC.
The air is clean, the scenery lush and green most of the year, relatively low taxes and moderate cost of living.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 25 at 2017 9:19 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 25 Oct 2017 21:19:44 -0400

My plan is to retire outside of Las Vegas. Everything I like to do is just right there. I'm a huge UFC and Boxing fan. I recently just started watching hockey and have taken on the Vegas Golden Knights.

Response by PO3 Phyllis Maynard made Oct 25 at 2017 9:32 PM

PO3 Phyllis Maynard — Wed, 25 Oct 2017 21:32:39 -0400

To take an extended vacation (2 years) to a remote, unwesternized wine village somewhere in Italy or France would be a wonderful getaway for me COL Mikel J. Burroughs

Response by Henning Heinemann made Oct 25 at 2017 9:41 PM

Henning Heinemann — Wed, 25 Oct 2017 21:41:05 -0400

Response by SP5 Rod Bernsen made Oct 25 at 2017 9:44 PM

SP5 Rod Bernsen — Wed, 25 Oct 2017 21:44:07 -0400

Anywhere except California

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 25 at 2017 9:57 PM

LCDR Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 25 Oct 2017 21:57:18 -0400

I honestly don't know yet. I'm leaning towards Colorado Springs, but would also consider going back to Louisville, Ky if I could get a position teaching at my seminary. I just know I don't want to go back home to Louisiana, too dang hot in the summer (which typically lasts from about 20 February until 29
December).

Response by PO1 Kevin Dougherty made Oct 25 at 2017 10:52 PM

PO1 Kevin Dougherty — Wed, 25 Oct 2017 22:52:40 -0400

Yea, that's Vermont ... though it could be anywhere in New England. Wish the shore was a little closer, I do miss the salt air, but this is where God has called us, and this is home.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 25 at 2017 11:21 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 25 Oct 2017 23:21:50 -0400

Kansas has recently exempted military pension income. Not to say that it is a great place to retire to, unless you plan on doing a lot of travel...

Response by Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 26 at 2017 12:19 AM

Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 26 Oct 2017 00:19:58 -0400

PI ! But, I have no foto !

Response by Capt Christian D. Orr made Oct 26 at 2017 12:49 AM

Capt Christian D. Orr — Thu, 26 Oct 2017 00:49:27 -0400

I'd gladly retire to England, Scotland, or Ireland if it weren't for the shitty taxes, cost-of-living, and anti-gun laws--I feel so alive in those countries, plus there's the ancestral connection!

Response by 1SG Ernest Schmidt made Oct 26 at 2017 2:49 AM

1SG Ernest Schmidt — Thu, 26 Oct 2017 02:49:44 -0400

I am currently living in Clarksville, Tennessee, It right outside the main gate of Fort Campbell, Ky, the city is about 120K now and growing we have lots of jobs here do to all the new factory jobs coming in and as a retiree you are next to one of the biggest PXs and Commissary in the USA. We are only 45 minutes from Nashville where the biggest and best hospitals are located too We get some snow and it can get cold but the weather as a whole is good we do have the four season here. We do not have a state Tax either which is great.

Response by CPO Keith Morgan made Oct 26 at 2017 3:06 AM

CPO Keith Morgan — Thu, 26 Oct 2017 03:06:20 -0400

I'll take Dodge as well

Response by SPC Brett Curry made Oct 26 at 2017 7:52 AM

SPC Brett Curry — Thu, 26 Oct 2017 07:52:14 -0400

It was key West for me. Sail boat just off of key West. No hotel, no house payment, your neighbors are the fish. Soooo quiet. And when you want you can get in your dingy, go into the dock and spend the day one the island. When you have had enough of people for one day, just go back to the boat...it's awesome...now I need to find another boat .

Response by CWO3 Randy Weston made Oct 26 at 2017 9:32 AM

CWO3 Randy Weston — Thu, 26 Oct 2017 09:32:47 -0400

For my semi retirement, Oregon due to location of kids and grandkids. Once fully retired, Summers in Or and winters on our place in Fl with some traveling in between. Other places considered: Belize (We liked it as well), Vera Cruz (cost of living), Chile (Uncle lives there), and Key West (would have to trade trailer for sailboat).

This is one of the things that is pretty awesome about this community, we have been everywhere! So most of the advice is going to be from personal experience. Thanks all for some good reading.

Response by SrA Ed Cranford made Oct 26 at 2017 9:35 AM

SrA Ed Cranford — Thu, 26 Oct 2017 09:35:44 -0400

Wait!!! This IS the place we retired to!! My bad.

Response by SP5 Dennis Dorsey made Oct 26 at 2017 9:59 AM

SP5 Dennis Dorsey — Thu, 26 Oct 2017 09:59:23 -0400

Though I am getting too old and cranky to move, if I did have a place, it would be in Panama. It is quiet, peaceful and the people are very welcoming to retirees.

Response by SSgt Jim Gilmore made Oct 26 at 2017 10:22 AM

SSgt Jim Gilmore — Thu, 26 Oct 2017 10:22:22 -0400

There are a great many options across the U.S. Due diligence tells me to look at cost of living along with location. Personal income tax rates are another factor to consider. Make comparisons and choose the place that best suits you and your lifestyle.

OCONUS offer several options for retirees as well. I know folks who have retired to Panama, Costa Rica, Belize, the Philippines, Vietnam and many like me, Thailand. I have traveled a fair portion of Asia and I love Hong Kong and Singapore while my Thai bride likes Japan and the U.S. I spent a few days in the Maldives as well. Each place it's own offerings and you pick what is best for you. My photo is from Phuket, Thailand. This particular photo was taken where the deadly 2004 tsunami came ashore in Thailand.

Response by Sgt Martin Querin made Oct 26 at 2017 2:13 PM

Sgt Martin Querin — Thu, 26 Oct 2017 14:13:27 -0400

I'd like to retire...in my lifetime. LOL Working until I'm 80 probably.

Response by Sgt Martin Querin made Oct 26 at 2017 2:14 PM

Sgt Martin Querin — Thu, 26 Oct 2017 14:14:55 -0400

COL Mikel J. Burroughs If you make it, please send the address...I'd love to visit! Wishing much success in achieving that goal. :-)

Response by PO1 Joseph Glennon made Oct 26 at 2017 2:43 PM

PO1 Joseph Glennon — Thu, 26 Oct 2017 14:43:43 -0400

Not this particular boat, but certainly the 1600 body style or newer... I prefer the starboard superstructure and bridge/flying bridge. Unlike most of the Navy's small craft, this one is ready-made for live aboard. Plenty of parking, as close to the beach as you want, lots of room for guests...

I would love - *LOVE* - to have an LCU. I would absolutely live on it. Doesn't matter *where*, because I could move it.

Response by SGT George Duncan made Oct 26 at 2017 10:32 PM

SGT George Duncan — Thu, 26 Oct 2017 22:32:02 -0400

texas likes it's vets but don't litter it's really not a good idea , all kidding aside vets get treated good contact Texas vets and see Texas Veterans Commission - Home | Facebook , Texas State Directory Online present dreams u'll

Response by CSM Bruce Trego made Oct 26 at 2017 11:47 PM

CSM Bruce Trego — Thu, 26 Oct 2017 23:47:00 -0400

We just bought a cabin in Idaho near Yellowstone. It's in Island Park, right on the Henry's Fork of the Snake River! It will be our summer hide away. I'll put a picture in when I figure out how to get one to my computer. LOL!

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 27 at 2017 2:46 AM

SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 27 Oct 2017 02:46:17 -0400

I have a couple friends who have retired overseas. Philippines and Thailand. They love it and they do something like teach English, fish or give tours as a part time job and to meet people.

Response by Sgt Wayne Wood made Oct 27 at 2017 10:46 PM

Sgt Wayne Wood — Fri, 27 Oct 2017 22:46:22 -0400

Pick a state with no personal income tax and a fairly intelligent legislature (good luck on that one)

Response by SGM Mikel Dawson made Oct 28 at 2017 7:37 PM

SGM Mikel Dawson — Sat, 28 Oct 2017 19:37:55 -0400

I am seriously thinking of Portugal. Cost of living is dirt cheap. Weather is great, people are fantastic. I know a few vets there who really like it. You are under the Foreign medical program, so no big deal, get to select local docs to visit, or come back CONUS if I want.

Response by SSG Ronald Wahl made Oct 28 at 2017 11:59 PM

SSG Ronald Wahl — Sat, 28 Oct 2017 23:59:26 -0400

WV just passed a law that exempts military pensions from taxes.

Response by SSG Edward Tilton made Nov 18 at 2017 9:30 PM

SSG Edward Tilton — Sat, 18 Nov 2017 21:30:38 -0500

Not a lot of attention being paid to Medical Care or how will you get around when you can't drive. I retired to Phoenix AZ but Sheriff Joe's Posse ran me out of town. Then I went back to San Francisco. It had excellent Medical and public Transportation but the cost of Living was too high.
From there to Fort Huachuca on the Mexican Border. It's at 4800ft so the weather is cooler and damper than most of Arizona. In the beginning the VA Clinic was in the Army Hospital but of course Congress couldn't leave that alone.
The clinic is no longer on base and we have to travel 70 miles for tests. Mlitary Personnel are sent to a nearby civilian hospital. Public Transportation isn't an issue because there is no place to go.
There is a state veterans Cemetery so I know where to go.

Response by SSgt Harvey "Skip" Porter made Nov 19 at 2017 4:02 PM

SSgt Harvey "Skip" Porter — Sun, 19 Nov 2017 16:02:43 -0500

I know several ex Air Force guys who have taken up residence in the Philippines. They all claim it's the cost of living that attracted them their. LOL LOL I was there so I know it's a lot more than the cost off living is the reason for them being there.

Peace!

Response by SP6 Jr Patatas made Nov 20 at 2017 4:57 AM

SP6 Jr Patatas — Mon, 20 Nov 2017 04:57:25 -0500

Camarines Sur Philippines where your 1$ is equal to 52.00 pesos https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tICKNX8SqKI

MISS MILLENNIAL CAMARINES SUR

Breathtaking views, water and extreme sports at masarap na pagkain, ganda ng Camarines Sur ipapakita sa atin ni Miss Millennial Camarines Sur, Julia Gonowon....

Response by MSgt Robert Whitehead made Jan 14 at 2018 11:15 PM

MSgt Robert Whitehead — Sun, 14 Jan 2018 23:15:23 -0500

If you are looking to keep working, look at Huntsville, Alabama. We have a massive amount of defense work; we have the second highest concentration of high-tech talent in the U.S. (behind Silicon Valley); we have political leadership that is actively (and successfully!) recruiting companies to locate to our area.

We just got confirmation that another automotive plant will be built in our area; 4000+ jobs are expected.

We also have an excellent college (UAH) that helps students find good jobs with local companies (Boeing, Northrop Grumman, Aerojet, etc.).

Response by CMSgt Steve Pennington made Jan 21 at 2018 11:33 PM

CMSgt Steve Pennington — Sun, 21 Jan 2018 23:33:05 -0500

I live in Washington State North of Seattle. As far as services go we have military facilities within a reasonable distance with JBLM, Naval Station Everett, etc. Home prices in Western Washington are astronomical and rising, along with property taxes. There is no income tax, but recently enacted legislation has put automobile license renewal fees in the 3 most populated counties around Puget Sound at well over twice the cost of last year. For those who are Second Amendment enthusiasts, the current legislative session has several restrictive, almost draconian, proposed laws. It is pretty expensive to live here, but it truly is a beautiful place.

Response by CDR Kenneth Kaiser made Jan 22 at 2018 2:29 AM

CDR Kenneth Kaiser — Mon, 22 Jan 2018 02:29:03 -0500

I live in Southwest Washington state. Came up from California because of the seasons also no gangs, and high taxes. I live in a small but growing town of Battle Ground. There are no state income taxes here and no sales taxes in Oregon which is about a thirty minute drive, soI make money here shop for big items in Oregon without having to put up with the protests etc associated with Portland. Property is going up a bit again but you can still get homes on five acres for a reasonable amount, especially when compared to California.

Response by SPC John Dixon made Jan 25 at 2018 10:42 AM

SPC John Dixon — Thu, 25 Jan 2018 10:42:16 -0500

I’m a 100% Disabled Veteran from New Bern, NC. My wife and I are moving to N. East Tenn in a few months. No state taxes, no property taxes on 1 vehicle, and they don’t make you pay on the first $100k of your home property taxes. Plus it’s beautiful there and the Northerners aren’t taking over, haha.

Response by SrA David Owen made Jan 25 at 2018 5:25 PM

SrA David Owen — Thu, 25 Jan 2018 17:25:33 -0500

Hua Hin, Thailand (though wouldn't mind Chiang Mai, Thailand either). I lived there for a decade and usually spend my summers in Thailand. Both are nice areas of Thailand.

Response by SGT John Meredith made Jan 25 at 2018 5:40 PM

SGT John Meredith — Thu, 25 Jan 2018 17:40:31 -0500

I am where I have to be. I owned a 2000 sq.ft. 4 bedroom house and a den with two living rooms,a nice walk in closet,a huge master bedroom with a two person bathtub and shower.All on a half acre.Lost it all because it was pay the mortgage or pay for chemo.My insurance company didn't pay for certain chemo treatments.I won the battle in the fight against cancer but lost my home I had for eight years.

Response by SSG Brian Carpenter made Jan 25 at 2018 5:54 PM

SSG Brian Carpenter — Thu, 25 Jan 2018 17:54:20 -0500

If you want to work in the city and commute in and out, the outer suburbs of New Orleans. LA Place, Kenner, West Bank or the Gonzales. Most State of the art VA in the country, totally rebuilt a few years after Katrina, into a major Hospital Complex. Hi paying jobs for any Veterans.

Response by PVT Mark Zehner made Jan 25 at 2018 6:01 PM

PVT Mark Zehner — Thu, 25 Jan 2018 18:01:18 -0500

No picture but some place warm on the beach. I was wounded as a police officer so I'm pretty much retired now but still work as a css for wounded warrior project for at least a few more years

Response by A1C Ian Williams made Jan 25 at 2018 6:59 PM

A1C Ian Williams — Thu, 25 Jan 2018 18:59:40 -0500

Base Camp near Olympus Mons COL Mikel J. Burroughs I have 30+ years ahead of me. After faithfully serving my country, this is where I want to go.

Response by PO2 Kevin Parker made Jan 25 at 2018 8:51 PM

PO2 Kevin Parker — Thu, 25 Jan 2018 20:51:58 -0500

My dream place to retire would be in Costa Rica

Response by Col Robert Wallace made Jan 25 at 2018 8:56 PM

Col Robert Wallace — Thu, 25 Jan 2018 20:56:50 -0500

My wife and I used to discussed our retirement years. I was a "farm boy" and she was a small town girl, thus we both enjoyed a peaceful, serenity life. Upon retiring, we planned to build a cabin home on a lake somewhere. I am not an artist by a long shot, but I painted such a scene for her as something to look forward to, but two years later, God called her home and our retirement was not to be. 29 1/2 yrs later, I still have that painting as to what might have been.

Response by SSG Edward Tilton made Jan 25 at 2018 9:20 PM

SSG Edward Tilton — Thu, 25 Jan 2018 21:20:02 -0500

Lands End, Outer Richmond District, San Francisco, Ca

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 25 at 2018 10:02 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 25 Jan 2018 22:02:09 -0500

Retirement in the company of men better than I have ever been.

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 26 at 2018 8:33 AM

LCDR Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 26 Jan 2018 08:33:31 -0500

Texas, my retirement property is a 41 acre ranch with a view.

Response by MCPO Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 26 at 2018 10:12 AM

MCPO Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 26 Jan 2018 10:12:52 -0500

Spent some time in Belize training their LEOs and CG. Beautiful.

Response by PO2 Katie Benson made Jan 26 at 2018 10:54 AM

PO2 Katie Benson — Fri, 26 Jan 2018 10:54:03 -0500

Well I have a horrible nerve condition (called Trigeminal Neuralgia) so I have to find a place that works with me.

Response by MSG Tony Hodge made Jan 26 at 2018 12:08 PM

MSG Tony Hodge — Fri, 26 Jan 2018 12:08:45 -0500

My issue with the "best place to live" lists are they usually consider such a small slice of the pie. Income tax vs retirement tax, sales tax, property tax, fuel, electric, water, gas prices. Other costs of housing whether it be buying, renting, lot rent, whatever. Some places you pay a crazy amount each year based on the value of your car. I don't need great schools I need low cost to me for schools. What population base do you want, what weather. All that being said, three least desirable places to live: #1 North Korea, #2 Afghanistan, #3 Iraq, #4 Illinois.

Response by SFC Francisco Rosario made Jan 26 at 2018 12:09 PM

SFC Francisco Rosario — Fri, 26 Jan 2018 12:09:07 -0500

As far as getting more bang for your buck, i would have to say San Antonio, TX. It has a growing economy and the employment outlook is on the rise. Not to mention that TX has the best benefits for veterans. And a good cost of living.

Response by SP5 Billy Mullins made Jan 26 at 2018 5:52 PM

SP5 Billy Mullins — Fri, 26 Jan 2018 17:52:19 -0500

I am from VA. and I love it here. We have all four seasons, the ocean on the east and mountains to the west. The downside is we are south of Washington D.C. and you know what they say about crap it runs down hill. Hahaha. We just have to fix the sewer there.

Response by Aletha Saunders made Jan 27 at 2018 6:58 PM

Aletha Saunders — Sat, 27 Jan 2018 18:58:33 -0500

I love where I live Raleigh NC. The bang for the buck has gone up but there are some lovely towns within 30 minutes that are very affordable 2 hours from the Beach and 2 hours from the Mountains excellent health care. We have a lot of half backers here now. (Those are the one that are from NY, NJ, and up north that move to Florida and miss the seasons They move half way back and we are blessed to have them).

Response by SMSgt Ted D. made Jan 28 at 2018 9:53 AM

SMSgt Ted D. — Sun, 28 Jan 2018 09:53:21 -0500

Joplin, Missouri has proved to be a great move! We were living in San Antonio, TX and while the city and state had a lot to offer, we wanted a smaller community where we could be engaged, involved and make a difference. We chose Joplin, MO because of the positive actions of the community after a terrible F5 tornado in 2011. We have since founded a non-profit to help veterans and serving military, Compass Quest Veteran Services (http://www.compassquest.org) and we have partnered with the City of Joplin and the Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce to present Joplin as a destination community for transitioning military due to abundant jobs, affordable housing, low cost of living, great schools, great cultural activities and much more. We even have a website setup that we share with TAP offices - http://www.welcomehometojoplin.com.

Response by CW5 Derrick Edwards (Ret) made Jan 28 at 2018 3:45 PM

CW5 Derrick Edwards (Ret) — Sun, 28 Jan 2018 15:45:11 -0500

Central Florida (away from the resorts & theme parks in Orlando and Tampa). Retiree services and VA resources are plentiful; no income tax. Southern and Middle Georgia also present as easy places to live with a mild climate.

Response by Lt Col John (Jack) Christensen made Jan 28 at 2018 8:45 PM

Lt Col John (Jack) Christensen — Sun, 28 Jan 2018 20:45:02 -0500

Lots have changed since I first retired but still like our decision to return to the Tampa Bay area. Was stationed here in 80s and when it came time to retire we asked ourselves where we had most enjoyed. Couple of other areas were in the running, but between medical considerations and desire to not be far from the water, Tampa Bay won.

Response by TSgt Gerald Bohmer made Feb 7 at 2018 11:52 AM

TSgt Gerald Bohmer — Wed, 07 Feb 2018 11:52:32 -0500

I'm currently in Denver. I concur with other comments about States without income Tax. My Retirement (E6) and Disability (SSDI) cover basic needs, but not much more. Ideally I'd be in the Mountains, at the end of an easily blocked & defended road.

Response by SGM Mikel Dawson made Feb 7 at 2018 12:05 PM

SGM Mikel Dawson — Wed, 07 Feb 2018 12:05:35 -0500

All jokes aside, Portugal is a great place. Good climate, great food, and the cost of living is dirt cheap. Real easy to buy property and get into the way of things. I got a VN Vet friend living there. Also not far from his is a retired Marine Colonel.

Response by 1SG Klayton W. Hayes made Feb 25 at 2018 5:22 PM

1SG Klayton W. Hayes — Sun, 25 Feb 2018 17:22:44 -0500

Maine. AKA Vacationland. Veteran friendly.

Response by SFC Robert Lee Rice made Feb 25 at 2018 7:54 PM

SFC Robert Lee Rice — Sun, 25 Feb 2018 19:54:36 -0500

West coast of North Florida,NO TAXES on retiremnent income,cheap land,plenty of it..

Response by SPC Joseph Wojcik made Feb 26 at 2018 12:34 PM

SPC Joseph Wojcik — Mon, 26 Feb 2018 12:34:59 -0500

If I could, I'd prefer to not be tied down and just travel the glob. For right now though, Pittsburgh is fine, the cost of living is almost low enough for me to live off of VA disability (if I only eat beans and rice, and never use electricity).

Response by SSgt GG-15 RET Jim Lint made Mar 12 at 2018 12:23 AM

SSgt GG-15 RET Jim Lint — Mon, 12 Mar 2018 00:23:55 -0400

Las Vegas....it will be 73 degrees on Monday, 12 March 2018. Mostly sunny days. Great place if you have arthritis...and lots of chow and freebees for locals! Many casinos have Military Mondays for chow. Life is good for this retiree.

Response by MAJ Paul Bacak made Apr 12 at 2018 7:00 AM

MAJ Paul Bacak — Thu, 12 Apr 2018 07:00:16 -0400

It’s hard to beat San Antonio, TX or vicinity. Great economy. Plenty of vets, retirees, active duty, and volunteer opportunities. Low cost of living. No income taxes. And Texas State Defense forces are a great way to continue the service mission of your life in uniform part time.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 13 at 2018 12:55 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 13 Apr 2018 12:55:37 -0400

Junction City, KS