As Veterans Day approaches, Colorado Springs has secured the fifth position on WalletHub’s list of the “Best & Worst Places for Veterans to Live.” This ranking highlights the city’s commitment to its veterans, showcasing its strong job market, high quality of life, and accessible services tailored for those who have served in the military.
The WalletHub ranking is based on a thorough evaluation of four key dimensions: employment, economy, quality of life, and health. It assesses the 100 most populous cities in the United States across 19 distinct indicators. These include metrics related to veteran unemployment, income growth, housing affordability, the number of homeless veterans, and access to healthcare facilities and VA benefits.
Mayor Celebrates Community Commitment
Mayor Yemi Mobolade expressed pride in Colorado Springs’ achievement, stating, “This ranking is an affirmation of what we know about Colorado Springs; that we are one of the top military and veteran communities in the nation.” He emphasized his commitment to ensuring the city remains a premier destination for veterans, adding, “My promise as mayor is to continue making our city one of the very best places in America for veterans and those who stood beside them.”
The city is home to approximately 100,000 veterans, who play integral roles within the community as neighbors, entrepreneurs, and leaders. Their contributions were acknowledged by Bob McLaughlin, executive director at Mt. Carmel Veterans Service Center. He remarked, “In Colorado Springs, we believe every Veteran deserves a place where their service is honored and their transition is supported.” This statement reflects a broader community ethos that prioritizes the support and integration of veterans.
Community Support and Integration
The recognition from WalletHub serves not only as a ranking but also as a testament to the efforts made by Colorado Springs to create an environment where veterans can thrive. The city has implemented various programs and initiatives aimed at supporting veterans in their transition to civilian life, ensuring they have access to necessary resources.
The sentiment shared by McLaughlin emphasizes that Colorado Springs is a welcoming community that actively encourages veterans to integrate and succeed. He stated, “Veterans who live here are welcomed—and empowered to thrive.” This commitment to honoring veterans and facilitating their successful transitions is central to the identity of Colorado Springs as a military-friendly city.
Overall, the fifth-place ranking by WalletHub underscores Colorado Springs’ dedication to providing a nurturing environment for its veteran population, aligning with the city’s ongoing efforts to support those who have served. As Veterans Day nears, this recognition highlights the importance of community and the continued need for resources dedicated to veterans.
