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Best States for Veterans: California
Part of GI Jobs’ 50 Best States for Veterans Series
Using the Military Friendly® States Tool, this series explores what makes each state unique and why it may be the perfect place to begin your next mission.
California is often viewed through two very different lenses. On one hand, it has one of the highest costs of living in the country. On the other, it offers unparalleled career opportunities, world-class universities, one of the nation’s largest Veteran communities, and more military installations than almost any other state.
For Veterans looking to maximize earning potential, access cutting-edge industries, or continue serving through federal employment, California remains one of the country’s strongest destinations.
Nearly 1.5 million Veterans call California home, and the state is home to roughly 160,000 active-duty service members, making it one of America’s largest military communities.
Table of Contents
- Veteran Snapshot
- Why Veterans Choose California
- California by the Numbers
- Employment Outlook for Veterans
- Education Opportunities
- Veteran Benefits in California
- Healthcare & VA Resources
- Best Cities for Veterans
- Cost of Living
- Outdoor Recreation & Veteran Lifestyle
- Pros & Cons
- Is California Right for You?
- Frequently Asked Questions
Veteran Snapshot
| Category | California |
|---|---|
| Overall Ranking | #12* |
| Best For | High-paying careers, technology, aerospace & defense |
| Veteran Population | ~1.5 million |
| State Income Tax | Yes |
| Military Retirement Tax | Partial exclusion available |
| Cost of Living | Very High |
| Major Military Installations | 25+ |
| VA Medical Centers | 8+ |
| Military Friendly® Presence | Outstanding |
*Ranking based on the GI Jobs Best States for Veterans methodology.
Why Veterans Choose California
California is a state of opportunity. For veterans transitioning into civilian life, few places offer the same combination of career options, educational resources, healthcare access, and innovation.
The state’s economy is the largest in the United States and among the largest in the world. Veterans can pursue careers in aerospace, cybersecurity, defense contracting, healthcare, engineering, logistics, renewable energy, manufacturing, entertainment, and technology.
Military experience is especially valued throughout California’s defense corridor. Installations such as Naval Base San Diego, Camp Pendleton, Edwards Air Force Base, Travis Air Force Base, and Vandenberg Space Force Base continue to fuel demand for skilled veterans in government and private industry.
California is also investing heavily in veterans. Beginning with the 2025 tax year, eligible military retirees can exclude up to $20,000 of qualifying military retirement income from California state taxes through 2030, representing a significant change from prior law.
For veterans looking to compare every state’s strengths, visit our Best States for Veterans guide.
California by the Numbers
| Category | California |
|---|---|
| Veteran Population | ~1.5 million |
| Median Home Price | ~$790,000 |
| Median Rent | ~$2,250/month |
| Cost of Living | Among Highest in U.S. |
| Major Military Bases | 25+ |
| VA Medical Centers | 8+ |
| Military Retirement Tax | Partial exclusion available |
| Property Tax | Moderate (Prop. 13 protections) |
| Unemployment | Varies by region |
Employment Outlook for Veterans
This is one of California’s greatest strengths.
Veterans can build careers across virtually every industry, including:
- Aerospace
- Defense
- Cybersecurity
- Artificial Intelligence
- Healthcare
- Biotechnology
- Logistics
- Law Enforcement
- Public Safety
- Manufacturing
- Renewable Energy
Major veteran employers include:
- Northrop Grumman
- Lockheed Martin
- RTX (Raytheon)
- Boeing
- General Atomics
- Kaiser Permanente
- Sutter Health
- Amazon
- Apple
- NVIDIA
- Tesla
- SpaceX
California has one of the strongest and most diverse economies in the world, making it an exceptional destination for veterans looking to build a civilian career. Whether you’re transitioning from active duty or retiring after 20 years of service, the Golden State offers opportunities in nearly every industry.
Military skills translate especially well into California’s booming aerospace, defense, technology, logistics, healthcare, and manufacturing sectors. Veterans with experience in aviation, cybersecurity, intelligence, engineering, project management, healthcare, or leadership are in particularly high demand.
Top Industries for Veterans
- Aerospace & Defense
- Technology & Artificial Intelligence
- Cybersecurity
- Healthcare
- Biotechnology
- Advanced Manufacturing
- Logistics & Supply Chain
- Renewable Energy
- Public Safety
- Government & Federal Service
Major Employers Hiring Veterans
California is home to many employers that actively recruit Veterans, including:
- Northrop Grumman
- Lockheed Martin
- RTX (Raytheon)
- Boeing
- General Atomics
- Kaiser Permanente
- Sutter Health
- Apple
- NVIDIA
- SpaceX
- Tesla
- Amazon
- Chevron
Veterans searching for organizations committed to hiring former service members should browse the Military Friendly® Employers directory.
Before applying, make sure your experience is translated effectively by learning the difference between a military resume vs. civilian resume.
For veterans who want to increase their earning potential quickly, earning one of the best certifications for veterans can open doors in cybersecurity, project management, IT, healthcare, and skilled trades.
Education Opportunities
California offers some of the nation’s most respected colleges and universities, along with one of the largest community college systems in the world. Veterans using the Post-9/11 GI Bill have access to outstanding educational opportunities ranging from trade schools to doctoral programs.
Military-connected students can choose from nationally recognized universities, career-focused technical schools, and online programs that accommodate working adults and military families.
Military Friendly® Schools
Some of California’s top Military Friendly® institutions include:
- University of Southern California
- San Diego State University
- California State University, Fullerton
- California State University, Long Beach
- National University
- University of California campuses
- Numerous California Community Colleges
Students should compare schools recognized as Military Friendly® Schools before making a decision.
Veterans should also understand the differences between the Yellow Ribbon Program and the Post-9/11 GI Bill, especially when considering higher-cost private universities.
Popular Career Fields
California remains a leader in workforce demand for:
- Cybersecurity
- Artificial Intelligence
- Nursing
- Software Engineering
- Aerospace Engineering
- Data Analytics
- Healthcare Administration
- Skilled Trades
- Aviation Maintenance
- Renewable Energy
With such a broad economy, veterans can often align their education directly with in-demand careers in their region.
Veteran Benefits in California
California offers one of the most comprehensive collections of veteran benefits in the country. While the state’s taxes and housing costs are often discussed, many veterans find the available education, healthcare, and disability programs outweigh those concerns.
State Income Taxes
California has a state income tax.
However, beginning with the 2025 tax year, eligible military retirees may exclude up to $20,000 of qualifying military retirement income annually through 2030.
Military Retirement
California has improved its treatment of military retirement income through the new exclusion, making the state significantly more attractive for military retirees than in previous years.
Property Tax Benefits
Disabled veterans may qualify for substantial property tax exemptions on their primary residence, depending on disability rating and eligibility.
California’s Disabled Veterans’ Exemption is among the most valuable property tax programs in the country for qualifying homeowners.
College Tuition Benefits
One of California’s biggest advantages is the College Fee Waiver for Veteran Dependents, which can significantly reduce or eliminate tuition costs for eligible spouses and children attending California State Universities, University of California campuses, and community colleges.
This benefit can save military families tens of thousands of dollars over a student’s education.
Employment Services
Veterans can access:
- Career counseling
- Apprenticeship opportunities
- Employment workshops
- Hiring events
- State workforce centers
- Veteran representatives
California also partners with numerous nonprofit organizations focused on Veteran employment and entrepreneurship.
Recreation Benefits
California offers veterans access to:
- State Parks
- Beaches
- National Parks
- Historic sites
- Camping
- Fishing
- Hunting opportunities
Disabled veterans may qualify for discounted or complimentary access to certain state recreation programs.
Healthcare & VA Resources
California operates one of the largest VA healthcare networks in the United States.
Veterans have access to major VA Medical Centers throughout the state, including:
- Long Beach
- Los Angeles
- Loma Linda
- Palo Alto
- Sacramento
- San Diego
- San Francisco
- Fresno
These facilities are supported by dozens of community-based outpatient clinics, Vet Centers, and telehealth programs serving both urban and rural communities.
Available Services
- Primary Care
- Specialty Care
- Mental Health
- PTSD Treatment
- Women’s Health
- Telehealth
- Rehabilitation
- Prosthetics
- Caregiver Support
- Suicide Prevention Programs
For veterans with complex medical needs, California provides some of the nation’s broadest access to VA specialty care, rehabilitation services, and academic medical partnerships.
Best Cities for Veterans
San Diego
Best for: Military careers & quality of life
San Diego is often considered one of the most military-friendly cities in America. Home to one of the largest concentrations of military installations in the country—including Naval Base San Diego, Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, and Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton (nearby)—the region offers outstanding opportunities for veterans transitioning into defense, healthcare, government, and technology careers.
Pros
- Massive military and veteran community
- Strong defense and aerospace industries
- Excellent VA healthcare access
- Beautiful weather year-round
- Beaches and outdoor recreation
Cons
- High housing costs
- Heavy traffic
Sacramento
Best for: Government careers
As California’s capital, Sacramento offers abundant opportunities in state government, healthcare, education, and public administration. Compared to coastal California, it also provides a somewhat more affordable cost of living.
Pros
- State government employment
- Lower housing costs than coastal metros
- Strong healthcare sector
- Family-friendly communities
Cons
- Hot summers
- Growing housing demand
Los Angeles
Best for: Entertainment, aerospace & healthcare
Los Angeles offers one of the country’s largest employment markets, with opportunities spanning aerospace, healthcare, logistics, manufacturing, and technology. Veterans with engineering, aviation, intelligence, or leadership experience often find excellent career prospects.
Pros
- Diverse economy
- Major defense contractors
- Large VA healthcare system
- Endless entertainment and culture
Cons
- Extremely high cost of living
- Traffic congestion
Riverside
Best for: Families & affordability
The Inland Empire has become an increasingly popular destination for Veterans who want more affordable housing while remaining within commuting distance of Southern California’s employment centers.
Pros
- Lower housing costs than Los Angeles
- Growing logistics and healthcare sectors
- Family-friendly neighborhoods
Cons
- Longer commutes
- Summer heat
San Jose
Best for: Technology careers
Veterans with backgrounds in cybersecurity, intelligence, communications, software development, and engineering often find Silicon Valley offers some of the highest-paying careers in the country.
Pros
- Exceptional salaries
- Thriving technology sector
- Innovation ecosystem
Cons
- Among America’s highest housing costs
- Competitive job market
Cost of Living
| Expense | California | U.S. Average |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | Much Higher | Average |
| Utilities | Higher | Average |
| Groceries | Higher | Average |
| Transportation | Higher | Average |
| Healthcare | Higher | Average |
California’s greatest challenge for many veterans is affordability. Housing costs—particularly along the coast—are among the highest in the nation. However, higher average wages, abundant career opportunities, and extensive veteran resources can offset those expenses depending on your profession and location.
Many Veterans choose inland communities where housing costs are lower while still maintaining access to California’s robust job market.
Outdoor Recreation & Veteran Lifestyle
Few states can match California’s variety of outdoor experiences.
Veterans can enjoy:
- Yosemite National Park
- Sequoia National Park
- Kings Canyon National Park
- Joshua Tree National Park
- Redwood National and State Parks
- Death Valley National Park
- Lake Tahoe
- Pacific Coast Highway
- Sierra Nevada Mountains
- Hundreds of state parks
- Surfing
- Skiing
- Mountain biking
- Rock climbing
- Desert recreation
- Camping
- Fishing
Whether you prefer the mountains, beaches, deserts, forests, or lakes, California offers year-round opportunities to stay active and connected with nature.
Pros
✔ One of the nation’s strongest job markets
✔ Outstanding defense, aerospace, and technology industries
✔ Excellent VA healthcare network
✔ World-class colleges and universities
✔ Extensive Military Friendly® Employers
✔ Exceptional outdoor recreation
✔ Large veteran community
Cons
✖ Very high housing costs
✖ State income tax
✖ Traffic in major metropolitan areas
✖ Higher everyday living expenses
✖ Competitive real estate market
Is California Right for You?
California isn’t the right fit for every veteran—but for many, it offers opportunities that are difficult to find anywhere else.
If your priorities include career growth, access to world-class universities, cutting-edge industries, comprehensive healthcare, and year-round recreation, California deserves serious consideration. Veterans with experience in aviation, cybersecurity, engineering, healthcare, logistics, and technology often find particularly strong opportunities throughout the state.
On the other hand, Veterans seeking the lowest cost of living or a slower pace of life may find neighboring states such as Arizona, Nevada, or Idaho more aligned with their goals.
Ultimately, California rewards Veterans who can leverage its expansive economy and educational resources while planning carefully for its higher housing and living costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is California a good state for Veterans?
Yes. California offers one of the nation’s largest veteran communities, exceptional career opportunities, extensive VA healthcare, and numerous education benefits. While the cost of living is high, many veterans find the state’s employment and lifestyle advantages outweigh the expense.
Does California tax military retirement pay?
California now allows eligible military retirees to exclude up to $20,000 of qualifying military retirement income from state taxes through 2030, making it significantly more military-friendly than in previous years.
What are the best cities in California for Veterans?
San Diego, Sacramento, Los Angeles, Riverside, and San Jose each offer different strengths, from defense careers and government employment to technology opportunities and family-friendly communities.
Does California have good VA healthcare?
Yes. California operates one of the nation’s largest VA healthcare systems, with major medical centers, community clinics, specialty care, and extensive mental health resources available throughout the state.
Is California affordable for Veterans?
California has one of the highest costs of living in the country, particularly for housing. However, higher average salaries, strong Veteran employment opportunities, and valuable education and healthcare benefits can help offset those costs.
Looking for the Complete Rankings?
California is just one stop in GIJobs’ 50 Best States for Veterans series.
Whether you’re looking for lower taxes, better career opportunities, a stronger Veteran community, or the perfect place to retire, our comprehensive rankings compare all 50 states to help you find your next mission.