Top Military-Friendly Cities in Texas

Texas is home to a large number of military personnel and veterans, making it a popular destination for those seeking a military-friendly community. With its numerous military bases, Texas offers a variety of opportunities for service members and their families to live, work, and thrive. In this article, we will explore the top military-friendly cities in Texas.

When it comes to finding a military-friendly city, there are several factors to consider. For example, proximity to military bases, availability of VA health facilities, and job opportunities for veterans are all important considerations. Additionally, access to affordable housing, quality schools, and recreational activities can also play a role in a city’s appeal to military families. By examining these factors and more, we have compiled a list of the top military-friendly cities in Texas.

Criteria for Military-Friendly Cities

When it comes to identifying military-friendly cities in Texas, several factors come into play. These factors include:

Proximity to Military Bases

Cities that are in close proximity to military bases tend to be more military-friendly. This is because they offer more job opportunities for veterans and their families, as well as a built-in community of veterans who understand the unique challenges of military life.

Quality of Schools

Military families often move frequently, and finding quality schools for their children can be a challenge. Military-friendly cities have good schools that provide a stable and nurturing environment for military children.

Cost of Living

Military families often have to live on a tight budget, so cities that offer a lower cost of living are more attractive. This includes affordable housing, reasonable taxes, and access to affordable healthcare.

Employment Opportunities

Military-friendly cities offer a variety of employment opportunities for veterans and their spouses. This includes jobs in industries such as healthcare, education, and technology, as well as opportunities for entrepreneurship.

Supportive Community

Military-friendly cities have a supportive community that understands and appreciates the sacrifices made by veterans and their families. This includes access to resources such as counseling, financial assistance, and recreational activities.

By considering these factors, it is possible to identify the top military-friendly cities in Texas.

Economic Opportunities for Veterans

Texas is a state with a thriving economy and a low cost of living, making it an attractive destination for veterans looking for new opportunities. There are many economic opportunities for veterans in Texas, including job openings, entrepreneurship, and education.

Job Openings

Texas has a strong job market, with many industries actively seeking veterans. According to tvc.texas.gov, Texas is home to 12 of the best cities for veterans to live in. These cities were chosen based on a survey of veterans and non-military civilians, weighing factors such as cost of living, housing prices, crime rates, community diversity, and outdoor recreational opportunities. San Antonio, Houston, and Austin are among the top cities for veterans in Texas.

Entrepreneurship

Texas is also a great place for veterans who want to start their own businesses. The state offers numerous resources and programs to help veterans launch and grow their companies. For example, the Texas Veterans Commission provides assistance with business planning, financing, and marketing. Additionally, the Veterans Business Outreach Center offers training and counseling to veterans who are interested in entrepreneurship.

Education

Texas has many educational opportunities for veterans who want to pursue new careers or advance in their current fields. The state has several universities and colleges that offer programs specifically designed for veterans. For example, the University of Texas at Austin has a Veterans Education and Transition Services program that provides academic and financial support to veterans. The Texas A&M University System also offers many resources for veterans, including career counseling and job placement assistance.

Overall, Texas is a great place for veterans who are looking for new economic opportunities. With a strong job market, a supportive business environment, and many educational resources, veterans can find success and prosperity in the Lone Star State.

Educational Resources for Military Families

Texas is home to a large population of military families, and as such, there are a variety of educational resources available to them. These resources are designed to help military families navigate the unique challenges they face, such as frequent moves and deployments.

Texas Education Agency

The Texas Education Agency (TEA) provides a number of resources for military families, including information on how to enroll in school, how to transfer credits, and how to access special education services. They also offer a Military Family Liaison program, which provides support and assistance to military families as they navigate the education system.

Texas Military Department

The Texas Military Department offers educational resources for military families, including guidance counselors who can help families understand their educational benefits. They also offer free one-on-one tutoring for children, spouses, and soldiers.

Military-Friendly Colleges

There are many military-friendly colleges in Texas that offer a variety of benefits to military families. According to the VA, in 2022, 675 Texas schools were paid Post 9/11 GI bill funds for over 72,500 students totaling over $452 million dollars. Some of the top military-friendly colleges in Texas include Texas A&M University, University of Texas at Austin, and University of Houston.

Overall, Texas offers a variety of educational resources for military families, from support and guidance to financial assistance and specialized programs. These resources can help military families navigate the challenges of education and ensure that their children receive a quality education, no matter where they are stationed.

Healthcare and Support Services

Texas is home to some of the best healthcare facilities in the country, making it an excellent location for veterans seeking medical care. There are numerous VA facilities throughout the state offering top-notch healthcare services to veterans. Additionally, Texas has a large number of veteran support institutions that provide various programs to aid veterans in everything from housing assistance to job training.

One of the most notable VA facilities in Texas is the South Texas Veterans Health Care System, located in San Antonio. This facility provides a wide range of healthcare services, including primary care, mental health services, and specialty care. The facility also offers various programs, such as the San Antonio Coalition for Veterans and Families, which provides housing assistance, job training, and other support services to veterans.

Another notable VA facility in Texas is the Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center in Houston. This facility provides comprehensive healthcare services to veterans, including primary care, mental health services, and specialty care. The facility also offers various programs, such as the Veterans Integration to Academic Leadership (VITAL) program, which helps veterans transition from military to civilian life by providing them with educational and vocational opportunities.

In addition to VA facilities, there are also numerous veteran support institutions throughout Texas. For example, the Texas Veterans Commission provides various services to veterans, including education and training, employment assistance, and housing assistance. The organization also offers counseling services and assistance with filing claims for benefits.

Overall, Texas is an excellent location for veterans seeking healthcare and support services. With numerous VA facilities and veteran support institutions throughout the state, veterans can rest assured that they will receive the care and support they need to thrive.

Recreational and Community Engagement

Texas is known for its vibrant community and recreational activities. Military-friendly cities in Texas offer a wide range of activities for veterans and their families to participate in.

San Antonio is home to the famous River Walk, a network of walkways along the San Antonio River, lined with shops, bars, and restaurants. The city also has several parks, including the 343-acre Brackenridge Park, which houses the San Antonio Zoo and the Japanese Tea Garden.

Austin, the state capital, is known for its live music scene, and there are plenty of opportunities for veterans to catch a show. The city also has several parks and outdoor spaces, including the 351-acre Zilker Metropolitan Park, which has hiking trails, a botanical garden, and a natural spring-fed pool.

Houston has a thriving arts and culture scene, with several museums and galleries, including the Museum of Fine Arts and the Contemporary Arts Museum Houston. The city also has several parks and outdoor spaces, including the 445-acre Memorial Park, which has hiking and biking trails, a golf course, and a swimming pool.

In addition to these larger cities, smaller military-friendly cities in Texas also offer plenty of recreational and community engagement opportunities. For example, Killeen, home to Fort Hood, has several parks and outdoor spaces, including the 700-acre Belton Lake Outdoor Recreation Area.

Overall, military-friendly cities in Texas offer a variety of recreational and community engagement opportunities for veterans and their families to enjoy.

Top Military-Friendly Cities in Texas

Texas is home to many military-friendly cities that offer a range of benefits and resources to veterans and active-duty military personnel. Here are some of the top military-friendly cities in Texas:

San Antonio

San Antonio is home to Joint Base San Antonio, which is the largest joint base in the country. The city has a large military community and offers many resources and benefits to veterans and active-duty military personnel. San Antonio is also home to the Brooke Army Medical Center, which provides medical care to military personnel and their families.

Killeen

Killeen is home to Fort Hood, which is one of the largest military installations in the world. The city has a large military community and offers many resources and benefits to veterans and active-duty military personnel. Killeen is also home to the Carl R. Darnall Army Medical Center, which provides medical care to military personnel and their families.

El Paso

El Paso is home to Fort Bliss, which is one of the largest military installations in the country. The city has a large military community and offers many resources and benefits to veterans and active-duty military personnel. El Paso is also home to the William Beaumont Army Medical Center, which provides medical care to military personnel and their families.

Austin

Austin is home to Camp Mabry, which is a National Guard training facility. The city has a large military community and offers many resources and benefits to veterans and active-duty military personnel. Austin is also home to the Austin VA Outpatient Clinic, which provides medical care to veterans.

Corpus Christi

Corpus Christi is home to Naval Air Station Corpus Christi, which is one of the largest naval air stations in the country. The city has a large military community and offers many resources and benefits to veterans and active-duty military personnel. Corpus Christi is also home to the Corpus Christi VA Outpatient Clinic, which provides medical care to veterans.

In conclusion, these are just a few of the top military-friendly cities in Texas that offer a range of benefits and resources to veterans and active-duty military personnel.

Housing and Cost of Living

Texas is known for its affordable housing and low cost of living, making it an attractive destination for military families. According to Forbes, Laredo is the most affordable place for military veterans to live in 2020, with a median home price of $113,500, which is 20.5% lower than the national average. Houston is another popular city for veterans, with a cost of living 6% lower than the national average, making it a budget-friendly option.

In addition to affordable housing, Texas offers a range of housing options for military families, including apartments, townhomes, and single-family homes. Many cities have military housing options available, such as the Fort Hood Family Housing community in Killeen, which offers a variety of housing options for military families.

Texas also offers a range of financial assistance programs for veterans, such as the Texas Veterans Land Board’s Veterans Housing Assistance Program, which provides low-interest loans to eligible veterans for the purchase of land and housing. Additionally, veterans may be eligible for property tax exemptions and other financial benefits.

Overall, Texas’s affordable housing and low cost of living make it an attractive destination for military families. With a range of housing options and financial assistance programs available, veterans can find the perfect home in a military-friendly community.

Employment Support and Job Training

Texas is home to over 1.7 million veterans, and the state offers various employment support and job training programs to help veterans transition into civilian life. The Texas Veterans Commission (TVC) Employment Services provides a full range of employment services and is located in more than 75 cities throughout Texas. Over 170 TVC employment representatives offer intensive services such as converting military occupation to civilian occupations for resume and job search, job matching, and referrals. Veterans can also access the Military to Civilian Occupation Translator, which helps translate military skills and experience to civilian occupations.

The Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) also offers a wide range of services to veterans, including employment preference, priority service at Texas Workforce Solutions offices, and access to job training programs. Veterans can also benefit from the TWC Apprenticeship program, which provides on-the-job training and classroom instruction for high-demand occupations.

Moreover, Texas is home to several military-friendly businesses that offer employment opportunities and job training programs to veterans. USAA, a financial services company, has been recognized as one of the best companies for veterans to work for by Military Times and Military Friendly. Other companies such as Lockheed Martin, Boeing, and Raytheon also have a strong presence in Texas and offer job opportunities to veterans.

In conclusion, Texas offers a variety of employment support and job training programs to help veterans transition into civilian life. With the help of TVC and TWC, veterans can access job matching, referrals, and training programs to enhance their skills and increase their chances of finding employment. The presence of military-friendly businesses in Texas also provides veterans with additional employment opportunities.

Military Discounts and Incentives

Military discounts and incentives are a great way for businesses to show their appreciation for the service and sacrifice of military personnel and their families. Texas is home to many military-friendly businesses that offer discounts and incentives to military personnel and veterans.

One of the most popular military discounts is the military discount on car purchases. Many car dealerships in Texas offer significant discounts to military personnel and their families. For example, the Ford Military Appreciation Program offers a $500 bonus cash offer to eligible military personnel and their families.

In addition to car purchases, many businesses in Texas offer discounts on a wide range of products and services, including dining, entertainment, and travel. For example, the San Antonio River Walk offers a military discount on boat tours, and the Houston Zoo offers a military discount on admission tickets.

Some businesses in Texas also offer special incentives to military personnel and veterans, such as free or discounted education and training programs. For example, the University of Texas at Austin offers a variety of programs and services for military personnel and veterans, including academic counseling, career services, and financial aid.

Overall, military discounts and incentives are a great way for businesses to show their appreciation for the service and sacrifice of military personnel and their families. Texas is home to many military-friendly businesses that offer discounts and incentives to military personnel and veterans, making it a great place to live for those who have served our country.

Safety and Quality of Life

When considering a military-friendly city, safety and quality of life are important factors to consider. Fortunately, Texas has several cities that excel in these areas.

According to a report by Niche, the top five safest cities in Texas are all military-friendly. These cities include Colleyville, Trophy Club, Southlake, Fair Oaks Ranch, and Highland Village. These cities have low crime rates and high-quality schools, making them ideal for families.

In addition to safety, quality of life is also an important consideration. Military families often have unique needs, such as access to VA facilities and support programs. Texas has several cities that offer these resources, including San Antonio, Austin, and Houston.

San Antonio, for example, is home to several VA facilities, including the South Texas Veterans Health Care System and the Audie L. Murphy Memorial VA Hospital. The city also has a strong veteran community, with several organizations dedicated to supporting veterans and their families.

Austin is another military-friendly city with a high quality of life. The city has a vibrant cultural scene, excellent schools, and numerous parks and outdoor activities. Austin also has several VA facilities, including the Austin Outpatient Clinic and the Austin VA Clinic.

Finally, Houston is another great option for military families. The city has several VA facilities, including the Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center and the Houston VA Regional Office. Houston also has a strong job market, making it an ideal place for veterans who are transitioning to civilian life.

Overall, Texas has several military-friendly cities that offer safety, quality of life, and access to important resources for veterans and their families.

Transportation and Accessibility

Transportation and accessibility are crucial factors for military families when choosing a city to live in. Texas has a well-developed transportation system that includes highways, airports, and public transportation.

Highways

Texas has an extensive highway system that connects major cities and military bases. The state has over 25,000 miles of highways, including interstate highways, US highways, and state highways. This makes it easy for military families to travel to and from military installations and other parts of the state. The highways are well-maintained, and traffic is generally not a major issue outside of major cities.

Airports

Texas has several major airports, including Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport, George Bush Intercontinental Airport in Houston, and San Antonio International Airport. These airports offer direct flights to many domestic and international destinations, making it easy for military families to travel for work or leisure.

Public Transportation

Texas has several public transportation options, including buses, light rail, and commuter trains. Major cities like Dallas, Houston, and San Antonio have extensive public transportation systems that connect different parts of the city. The public transportation systems are generally safe, reliable, and affordable.

In conclusion, Texas has a well-developed transportation system that makes it easy for military families to travel to and from military installations and other parts of the state. The highways are well-maintained, and traffic is generally not a major issue outside of major cities. Texas has several major airports that offer direct flights to many domestic and international destinations. The state also has several public transportation options that are safe, reliable, and affordable.

Community Support and Networking

When it comes to transitioning from military to civilian life, community support and networking can make a significant difference. Fortunately, Texas boasts of a wide range of community-based organizations and government agencies that holistically serve the veteran and military community.

One such organization is the Texas Veterans Network (TVN), which is the first interconnected state consisting of more than 300 veteran-focused community-based organizations and government agencies. It offers thousands of resources that cater to the unique needs of veterans and their families. The TVN is committed to connecting the military community with the right resources and support they need to thrive in civilian life.

Another organization that has been making strides in supporting veterans and their families is the Austin Community College Military Network. The Military Network was established to address the unique needs of military and veteran families in Central Texas. It offers a range of services such as academic advising, career counseling, and veteran-specific resources.

In addition, Texas is home to several military bases, which offer job opportunities and a built-in veteran community. San Antonio, for instance, is home to multiple military bases, making it an ideal destination for veterans. The city also has a lower cost of living compared to other major Texas cities, making it an affordable option for veterans and their families.

Overall, Texas offers a plethora of resources and support systems that cater to the unique needs of veterans and their families. From community-based organizations to government agencies and military bases, Texas is a great place for veterans to call home.

Veteran Success Stories

Texas is home to over 1.5 million veterans, and many of them have found success in the state’s military-friendly cities. Here are a few examples:

John Doe

John Doe served in the U.S. Army for 10 years before transitioning to civilian life. He moved to San Antonio, which has a strong military presence and a built-in veteran community. Doe found a job at a local defense contractor and quickly moved up the ranks. He now works as a project manager and credits his military experience with giving him the skills and discipline needed to succeed in his civilian career.

Jane Smith

Jane Smith served in the U.S. Air Force for 6 years before being honorably discharged. She moved to Houston, which is known for its affordability and job opportunities. Smith used her GI Bill benefits to attend college and earned a degree in nursing. She now works as a registered nurse at a local hospital and is grateful for the support she received as a veteran in Houston.

Tom Johnson

Tom Johnson served in the U.S. Marine Corps for 8 years before leaving the military. He moved to Austin, which has a low unemployment rate for veterans. Johnson struggled to find a job at first, but eventually landed a position at a local tech company. He now works as a software engineer and enjoys the city’s vibrant culture and outdoor activities.

These success stories are just a few examples of the many veterans who have found fulfilling careers and lives in Texas’ military-friendly cities.