Florida is a well-known retirement destination. It’s popular among snowbirds and retirees wishing to enjoy their golden years in some of the nation’s most beloved coastal cities. Yet, many people don’t realize the many benefits the Sunshine State offers veterans. From tax breaks to health care access and a large veteran population, Florida cities have many advantages for veteran retirees. But which are the best Florida retirement cities for veterans?
If you’re one of the many veterans looking for the best place to retire in Florida, we’re here to help. We’ll explore the reasons veterans flock to Florida and list some of the most veteran-friendly cities throughout the state.
Why Is Florida an Ideal Retirement Destination for Veterans?
When choosing a place to retire after active duty, veterans look for various factors that can help them stretch their pension and improve their quality of life. Florida offers a host of economic, physical, social, and environmental benefits for military members and their families.
Some of the top advantages for veterans retiring in Florida include:
- No state tax on military pensions: Since Florida has no state income tax, veterans put more of their pension toward enjoying their lifestyle.
- Accessibility of VA health care: The Sunshine State’s 21 active military bases provide veterans with easy access to highly rated VA hospitals, outpatient clinics, and health centers.
- Thriving veteran population: Florida has the second-highest veteran population in the nation, allowing retirees to join thriving veteran groups like the USO and Team RWB and gain the support of peers who have had similar life experiences.
- Recreational opportunities: With a year-round mild climate, bountiful bodies of water, golf courses, shopping centers, national parks, and more, Florida is a dream destination for active veterans.
Top Florida Retirement Cities for Veterans
The best Florida cities for veterans to retire offer a high quality of life, economic advantages, VA health care access, and a supportive community. These cities have all those benefits and more. So get ready to pack your bags and start planning your dream retirement.
Orlando
While known for its theme parks, Orlando has a lot more to offer than you may realize. The city’s infrastructure offers easy access to shopping, dining, beaches, nature preserves, and outdoor festivals. Orlando is also full of cultural attractions, like museums, galleries, music venues, and professional sports teams. The sunny climate allows year-round enjoyment of local parks and gardens and supports an active lifestyle.
Veteran Health Care in the Orlando Area
Veterans have easy access to world-class health care at the Orlando VA Medical Center, located in Lake Nona’s Medical City. The fourth largest VA medical center in the country, the center provides acute care, complex specialty care, advanced diagnostic services, support services, and a large multispecialty outpatient clinic.
55+ Veteran Housing Options in the Orlando Area
In August 2025, the median price for a single-family home in Orlando was $415,000. Townhouses average around $324,000, and condos cost about $194,000. However, according to 55places.com data, the median listing price of a home in a 55+ community in Central Florida is $350,000. Retirees hoping to stretch their budget a little further can explore options in Orlando’s many active adult communities. Some even offer single-family homes in the $200ks and condos in the low $100ks.
Tampa
The Tampa Bay area’s big city amenities and coastal community vibe make it a popular location for retirees. Walkable neighborhoods, award-winning beaches, public parks, and access to fresh foods support a healthy lifestyle. Tampa’s vibrant cultural scene, top pro sports teams, and world-class restaurants make finding entertainment a breeze.
Veteran Health Care in the Tampa Area
Veterans in Tampa have access to a wide range of health care services at the James A. Haley Veterans Hospital. The facility provides 24/7 emergency room care, primary care, and an array of specialty health services, including cardiology, treatment for spinal cord injuries, prosthetics, and more.
55+ Veteran Housing Options in the Tampa Area
In August 2025, the median home sales price in Tampa was about $475,000. However, retirees can find lower-priced homes by seeking out less expensive neighborhoods and considering options besides single-family homes. According to 55places.com data, the median listing price of a home in a 55+ community in the Tampa Bay area is $320,000. Tampa’s many age-restricted communities offer a range of housing options for retirees, with prices ranging from the low $100Ks to over $1M.
St. Petersburg
Across the bay from Tampa, St. Petersburg is a city known for white sand beaches and vibrant culture. Entertainment is easy to find in the city’s many museums, galleries, and theaters. Also, 25 miles of the best beaches in the country offer a range of outdoor activities. St. Petersburg has a high percentage of veteran-owned businesses, a very low veteran unemployment rate, and a healthy number of veteran service organizations.
Veteran Health Care Near St. Petersburg
Veterans can find comprehensive health care at the St. Petersburg VA Clinic, where the outpatient clinic provides primary care, women’s health services, social work, and more. Patients can also get lab work completed and prescriptions filled.
55+ Veteran Housing Options in St. Petersburg
In August 2025, the median home price in St. Petersburg was $435,000. However, more affordable homes are available in some neighborhoods. As previously mentioned, the median listing price of a home in a 55+ community in the Tampa Bay area is $320,000, according to 55places.com data. Condos in some of St. Petersburg’s age-restricted communities are as low as $100,000. Also, single-family homes can be found in the mid $200ks.
Jacksonville
A sprawling city on Florida’s east coast, Jacksonville has all the amenities and attractions you could possibly ask for. Yet, the tight-knit communities in various neighborhoods offer all the advantages of small-town living. Retirees are drawn to Jacksonville for its thriving cultural scene and recreational activities, and enticed to stay for the Southern charm and affordable cost of living.
Veteran Health Care in the Jacksonville Area
As home to the Naval Station Mayport and Naval Air Station Jacksonville, the city has a strong military presence. Jacksonville also has three major VA clinics, each of which offers primary care and specialized medical services, including physical therapy, cardiology, mental health care, dental surgery, and more.
55+ Veteran Housing Options in the Jacksonville Area
In August 2025, the median home price in Jacksonville was $315,000, but housing costs can vary significantly by location. There are also several popular 55+ communities located throughout the city, featuring single-family homes, attached homes, and condos. According to 55places.com data, the median listing price of a home in a 55+ community in the Jacksonville area is $424,500. Active adult communities in Jacksonville typically offer a low-maintenance lifestyle and a range of onsite amenities.
Finding the Right Florida Community To Call Home
Florida has the second-highest veteran population in the nation for good reason. The absence of state taxes is ideal for stretching a military pension. Also, numerous pieces of state legislation provide veterans with access to housing, long-term care, and benefit expansion. Many cities in the Sunshine State offer multiple health care options for veterans, as well as several active adult communities.
If you’re looking for the perfect age-restricted community in one of Florida’s most veteran-friendly cities, our experienced team can help you explore your options and make an informed decision. Contact us today to discover more about the benefits of 55+ communities in Florida!
Veterans Retiring in Florida FAQ
1. Does Florida tax military pensions?
No. Florida exempts military pensions from state taxation, allowing veterans to keep more of their retirement income.
2. Are VA disability benefits taxed in Florida?
No. VA disability benefits are not subject to state tax in Florida.
3. How many veterans live in Florida?
Florida is home to more than 1.5 million veterans, the second-highest veteran population in the U.S.
4. What are the best cities in Florida for veterans to retire?
Popular veteran-friendly retirement cities include Orlando, Tampa, St. Petersburg, and Jacksonville, all offering VA health care access and strong veteran communities.
5. What VA hospitals are in Florida?
Florida has 21 VA medical centers and outpatient clinics, including the Orlando VA Medical Center, James A. Haley Veterans Hospital in Tampa, and clinics in Jacksonville and St. Petersburg.
6. Does Florida offer property tax exemptions for veterans?
Yes. Disabled veterans may qualify for full or partial property tax exemptions, depending on disability rating and residency status.
7. Can veterans get discounts on housing in Florida?
Some communities and builders offer special programs or incentives for veterans. Additionally, property tax breaks and VA loan benefits make buying a home more affordable.
8. Are there many 55+ communities in Florida for veterans?
Yes. Florida has hundreds of 55+ and active adult communities, many of which are located near VA hospitals and bases.
9. Are there veteran support organizations in Florida?
Yes. Groups like the USO, Team RWB, American Legion, and local veterans’ associations provide support and social connections across the state.
10. Why do so many veterans retire in Florida?
Florida combines tax advantages, warm weather, abundant VA health care facilities, affordable housing options, and a thriving veteran community—making it one of the most veteran-friendly states in the nation.
- Insights and market stats
- Instant new home alerts
- Answers from local 55+ experts
