San Diego is a beautiful city with a thriving economy, wonderful outdoor activities, and a short drive from some of the nicest beaches in the United States. It also has a lot to offer veterans who are looking for somewhere new to live after their service in the military is done. Here are eight reasons why San Diego makes an ideal retirement spot for veterans.
Great Weather
While some military retirees are still quite young, living in an area with great weather offers numerous benefits. With lots of sunshine, average temperatures below 90 degrees, and no snow, people come here for the climate and all that you can do in the nice weather. It feels like spring and summer all year long, and that means no shoveling yourself out of snow in the winter months.
Military-Friendly Environment
San Diego is home to several military bases. As a result, the region has become very friendly to the military and former military service members. There are many different options for veterans not just through the VA, but through different organizations in the area. This often means discounted rates on things like insurance, rent, and more.
Easy Access to VA Services
Veterans who have served in the military are eligible for a variety of benefits from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), including health care and financial assistance. You can click here to see some of the pay charts as well. The VA is known for providing lending options for veterans and active duty service members, as well as offering educational assistance for dependents. Living in San Diego ensures easy access to all of these VA services without needing to travel too far.
Variety of Housing Options
San Diego is a large city, but it’s not as spread out as other cities. There are many different neighborhoods to choose from, each with its own feel and vibe. The cost of housing varies depending on what you’re looking for. There’s everything from affordable housing options or high-end luxury homes. Plus, as a veteran, you may be able to take advantage of low-cost lending options to purchase a house in the area. This can help you save big money since your mortgage would likely be less than a comparable place with rent.
Proximity to the Beach
One of the biggest draws for retirees is the beach. San Diego has some of the best beaches in the country, and many have been rated among some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. You can walk to a beach from many places in San Diego, making it easy to spend some time out on your favorite stretch of sand. Whether you like the beach for relaxing and getting some sun, or you like a challenge, like with surfing, the beach has something for everyone.
Enjoyable Outdoor Activities
Even if the beach isn’t your favorite, there are many other enjoyable outdoor activities you can participate in. There are mountains nearby that offer the opportunity for camping, skiing, biking, hiking, and more. San Diego is a favorite spot for people who love the outdoors.
Family-Friendly Things to do in San Diego
Many veterans who retire in San Diego are still raising a family. There are numerous family-friendly things to do in San Diego. The San Diego Zoo and SeaWorld San Diego are just two of the options. With lots of places like parks, kids’ museums, libraries, and more, San Diego is a wonderful spot for families.
Great Public Transportation Options
San Diego’s public transportation system is one of the best in the country. It includes trolley cars, buses, and light rail trains that can take you almost anywhere in San Diego. You may even qualify for a veterans discount with your military ID. This can help you save time and money. You won’t need to contend with traffic as often if you take public transportation.
Conclusion
If you’re a veteran looking for a place to retire, San Diego is a great option. You’ll enjoy beautiful weather, access to services, a variety of housing options, and even family-friendly activities. For the adventurer, there’s always the beach, a weekend trip to the mountains, or taking a scenic drive up the coast. As a major metropolitan city, of course, you can also easily fly new places out of the international airport, or enjoy the city life.
