Best Cities for Veterans in Pennsylvania 2025: Complete Guide

Bottom Line Up Front

Pittsburgh ranks #14 nationally for best cities for veterans (2024 rankings), making it Pennsylvania's top veteran city. It offers strong job opportunities (defense contractors BAE Systems, Boeing, healthcare giant UPMC), affordable housing (median $210,000), and excellent VA healthcare (two VA campuses). Combined with Pennsylvania's 100% property tax exemption for disabled veterans and military retirement tax exemption, Pittsburgh is outstanding for 100% disabled veterans and military retirees.

Harrisburg and Altoona also rank highly in national veteran city rankings. Harrisburg offers the lowest cost of living among major PA cities (median home $190,000), proximity to military installations (Carlisle Barracks, Fort Indiantown Gap), and a strong veteran community. Altoona ranked #1 nationally for veterans buying a house (2025) due to extreme affordability.

Philadelphia is Pennsylvania's largest city (1.6 million) with the most job opportunities, but high local income taxes (3.79%) and cost of living offset benefits for non-disabled veterans. However, 100% disabled veterans save $2,150+ annually on property taxes, making it viable. Erie offers the most affordable housing (median $134,000) with solid VA healthcare and a tight-knit veteran community.

State College (home of Penn State) combines excellent education benefits, low crime, and quality of life, but lacks major VA facilities (nearest is Altoona, 45 minutes) and has limited veteran employment outside the university.

Overall rankings for Pennsylvania cities:

Pittsburgh - Best overall (jobs, VA care, affordability, veteran community)
Harrisburg - Best for cost of living, military connections
Altoona - Best for home affordability
Philadelphia - Best for job opportunities (if you can afford local taxes)
Erie - Best for extreme affordability, small-town feel
State College - Best for student veterans using GI Bill

Pittsburgh: Pennsylvania's #1 Veteran City

National Ranking: #14 best city for veterans (2024) Metro Population: 2.3 million Veteran Population: 110,000+ in greater Pittsburgh area

Why Pittsburgh Ranks #1 in Pennsylvania

Pittsburgh combines strong employment, affordable housing, excellent VA healthcare, and a vibrant veteran community. Recent economic diversification (tech, healthcare, robotics, autonomous vehicles) created thousands of jobs beyond traditional steel manufacturing.

Veteran Score Breakdown:

Employment opportunities: Excellent (defense contractors, healthcare, tech, government)
VA healthcare: Good (two VA campuses, though quality ratings improving)
Affordability: Very Good (lower cost of living than Philadelphia)
Education: Excellent (Pitt, CMU, Duquesne, Community College of Allegheny County)
Veteran community: Excellent (110,000+ veterans, dozens of VSOs)

Cost of Living

Housing:

Median home price: $210,000 (Allegheny County)
Median rent (2-bedroom): $1,200/month
Property tax rate: 1.68% effective rate
Annual property tax: $3,750 (median home, non-exempt)
100% disabled veteran: $0 property tax (saves $3,750/year)

Pittsburgh's housing market is significantly more affordable than Philadelphia, Baltimore, or Washington D.C. Neighborhoods like Lawrenceville, Highland Park, and Squirrel Hill offer strong communities with home prices $180,000-$250,000.

Other Costs:

Groceries: 5% below national average
Utilities: $180/month average
Transportation: $90/month (Port Authority bus pass)
Healthcare: Slightly below national average
Income tax: 3.0% local (city + school district) applies to military retirement

Example Budget (Military Retiree, No Disability):

Military retirement: $50,000/year
PA state income tax: $0 (exempt)
Local income tax: $1,500 (3.0%)
Mortgage/rent: $14,400/year ($1,200/month)
Property tax: $3,750 (if own home)
Utilities/other: $8,000/year
Total expenses: ~$27,650/year
Leftover: $22,350

Example (100% Disabled Veteran):

Military retirement: $50,000
VA disability: $40,000 (100% with dependents)
Total income: $90,000 (VA disability tax-free)
PA state income tax: $0 (exempt)
Local income tax: $1,500 (3.0% on retirement only—VA disability exempt)
Property tax: $0 (exempt)
Housing: $14,400/year
Utilities/other: $8,000
Total expenses: ~$23,900
Leftover: $66,100

100% disabled veterans in Pittsburgh have massive financial advantages due to property tax exemption.

Employment Opportunities

Major Employers:

UPMC (University of Pittsburgh Medical Center)
- Employees: 95,000+ (largest employer in PA)
- Veteran hiring: Active programs
- Roles: Nursing, medical techs, IT, facilities, admin, security
- Pay: $45,000-$110,000
VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System
- Employees: 5,000+
- Veteran hiring: Federal hiring preference
- Roles: Nursing, physicians, admin, IT, facilities
- Pay: $50,000-$150,000+
Boeing
- Location: Pittsburgh area (rotorcraft systems)
- Veteran hiring: Strong recruiting
- Roles: Engineering, manufacturing, program management
- Pay: $70,000-$135,000+
BAE Systems (York, PA - 90 minutes from Pittsburgh)
- Major defense contractor
- Veteran hiring: 25%+ of workforce
- Roles: Systems engineering, cybersecurity, manufacturing
- Pay: $70,000-$140,000+
Carnegie Mellon University
- Employees: 14,000
- Roles: Admin, facilities, security, research support
- Pay: $40,000-$90,000
PNC Financial Services
- Headquarters: Pittsburgh
- Veteran programs: Yes
- Roles: Banking, IT, customer service, operations
- Pay: $50,000-$100,000

Veteran unemployment: ~3.0% (mirrors national average)

Industries with high veteran hiring:

Healthcare (UPMC, Allegheny Health Network, VA)
Defense contractors (Boeing, Lockheed subcontractors)
Manufacturing (advanced manufacturing, robotics)
Technology (Google, Uber ATG, autonomous vehicle companies)
Government (city, county, state—veterans' preference applies)

VA Healthcare

VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System

University Drive Campus: University Drive C, Pittsburgh, PA 15240 | (866) 482-7488
H. John Heinz III Campus: 1010 Delafield Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15215
Services: Comprehensive care including primary care, specialty care, mental health, surgery, inpatient, long-term care
Quality rating: 2-3 stars (improving)
Wait times: Primary care 20-30 days; specialty care 35-50 days
Specialties: Geriatrics, PTSD programs, prosthetics, spinal cord injury

Pittsburgh Vet Center

Location: 2500 Baldwick Road, Suite 15, Pittsburgh, PA 15205
Phone: (412) 920-1765
Services: PTSD counseling, readjustment counseling, MST therapy

Community Care: Excellent TRICARE and VA Community Care networks with UPMC, Allegheny Health Network

VA Pittsburgh is the largest VA system in Pennsylvania, serving western PA, parts of West Virginia, and Ohio. While quality ratings are below Philadelphia VAMC, recent leadership changes and facility upgrades are improving care.

Education

University of Pittsburgh

Yellow Ribbon: Yes
In-state tuition for veterans: $19,080/year (automatic)
GI Bill: Fully covered
BAH: ~$1,800/month
Programs: Engineering, nursing, business, health sciences
Veteran services: Office of Veterans Services

Carnegie Mellon University

Private, elite STEM university
Yellow Ribbon: Limited
Tuition: $63,000+/year
Programs: Computer science, engineering, robotics, business

Community College of Allegheny County (CCAC)

Tuition: $5,400/year (in-state)
GI Bill: Fully covered + BAH
Programs: Nursing, business, IT, manufacturing, automotive

Duquesne University

Private Catholic university
Yellow Ribbon: Yes
Programs: Business, pharmacy, nursing, education

Veteran Community

Veteran population: 110,000+ in metro area
VFW posts: 50+
American Legion posts: 70+
Veterans Leadership Program: Major support organization serving 8,000+ veterans annually (housing, employment, career services)
Student Veterans of America: Chapters at Pitt, CMU, Duquesne

Pittsburgh has a tight-knit veteran community with extensive support networks. Annual events include Veterans Day Parade, Memorial Day ceremonies, and veteran job fairs.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

#14 nationally for veterans—Pennsylvania's best
Affordable housing ($210,000 median)
Strong job market (healthcare, defense, tech)
100% disabled veterans save $3,750/year on property taxes
Large veteran community (110,000+)
Good education options (Pitt, CMU, CCAC)
Rich history, culture, sports (Steelers, Penguins, Pirates)

Cons:

3.0% local income tax applies to military retirement
VA healthcare quality ratings below average (improving)
Specialty care wait times 35-50 days
Winter weather (cold, snow)
Economy still transitioning from steel industry (though much improved)

Best for: 100% disabled veterans, military retirees, veterans seeking affordable housing with strong job market, healthcare workers, engineers

Philadelphia: Jobs & Opportunity (But Higher Costs)

Metro Population: 6.2 million (largest in PA) Veteran Population: 228,000 in metro area City Population: 1.6 million

Why Philadelphia Ranks High (With Caveats)

Philadelphia offers the most job opportunities in Pennsylvania and world-class education (Penn, Temple, Drexel), but high local income taxes (3.79%) and cost of living create challenges for non-disabled veterans. However, 100% disabled veterans benefit significantly from property tax exemption ($2,150+ annually) and proximity to major VA facilities.

Cost of Living

Housing:

Median home price: $250,000 (Philadelphia County)
Median rent (2-bedroom): $1,600/month
Property tax rate: 0.86% (lowest in PA among major cities)
Annual property tax: $2,150 (median home, non-exempt)
100% disabled veteran: $0 property tax (saves $2,150/year)

Philadelphia has lower property tax rates than suburban counties (Montgomery, Bucks, Chester have $5,000-$7,000 annual taxes), but home prices are higher in desirable neighborhoods (Fishtown, Northern Liberties, Rittenhouse Square average $350,000-$500,000).

Other Costs:

Groceries: 10% above national average
Utilities: $200/month average
Transportation: $96/month (SEPTA pass)
Sales tax: 8% (highest in PA: 6% state + 2% local)
Income tax: 3.79% local (city + school district) applies to military retirement

Example Budget (Military Retiree, No Disability):

Military retirement: $55,000/year
PA state income tax: $0 (exempt)
Local income tax: $2,085 (3.79%)
Mortgage/rent: $19,200/year ($1,600/month)
Property tax: $2,150 (if own home)
Utilities/other: $10,000/year
Total expenses: ~$33,435/year
Leftover: $21,565

Example (100% Disabled Veteran):

Military retirement: $55,000
VA disability: $40,000
Total income: $95,000 (VA disability tax-free)
Local income tax: $2,085 (3.79% on retirement only)
Property tax: $0 (exempt)
Housing: $19,200
Utilities/other: $10,000
Total expenses: ~$31,285
Leftover: $63,715

Philadelphia's high local income tax ($2,085 on $55K retirement vs. $1,650 in Pittsburgh on same income) is a significant downside, but the property tax exemption for disabled veterans partially offsets this.

Employment Opportunities

Major Employers:

Comcast Corporation
- Headquarters: Philadelphia
- Employees: 20,000+ in Philly
- Veteran hiring: Military Skills Transition Program
- Roles: IT, network operations, customer service, engineering, media production
- Pay: $50,000-$120,000
Penn Medicine (University of Pennsylvania Health System)
- Employees: 45,000+
- Veteran hiring: Active programs
- Roles: Nursing, physicians, medical techs, admin, IT, security
- Pay: $48,000-$110,000
Veterans Affairs Medical Center (Philadelphia)
- Employees: 4,000+
- Veteran hiring: Federal hiring preference
- Roles: Healthcare, admin, IT, facilities
- Pay: $50,000-$160,000+
Boeing (Rotorcraft Systems)
- Location: Ridley Park (suburban Philadelphia)
- Veteran hiring: Strong programs
- Roles: Engineering, manufacturing, program management
- Pay: $70,000-$135,000+
Jefferson Health System
- Employees: 35,000+
- Roles: Nursing, medical techs, admin, facilities
- Pay: $45,000-$105,000
City of Philadelphia
- Veteran hiring: Veterans' preference for civil service exams
- Roles: Police, fire, streets, water, admin
- Pay: $45,000-$95,000
Amazon
- Multiple fulfillment centers in Philly metro
- Veteran programs: Military Talent Program
- Roles: Operations, warehouse management, logistics
- Pay: $40,000-$85,000

Veteran unemployment: ~3.3%

Philadelphia's economy is diverse: healthcare (Penn Medicine, Jefferson, Temple Health), education (Penn, Temple, Drexel), tech (Comcast, startups), finance, and manufacturing.

VA Healthcare

Corporal Michael J. Crescenz VA Medical Center

Location: 3900 Woodland Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19104
Phone: (215) 823-5800 | (800) 949-1001
Services: Comprehensive care including primary care, specialty care (cardiology, oncology, neurology, orthopedics), mental health, surgery, inpatient, emergency (24/7)
Beds: 280+ operating beds
Quality rating: 3-4 stars (above average)
Wait times: Primary care 15-20 days; specialty care 30-45 days; mental health 20-25 days
Specialties: Spinal cord injury center, polytrauma unit, prosthetics

Philadelphia VAMC is one of the East Coast's premier VA facilities with excellent quality ratings and shorter wait times than Pittsburgh.

Vet Centers:

Northeast Philadelphia Vet Center: 101 E. Olney Avenue | (215) 924-4670
Center City Philadelphia Vet Center: 1500 Chestnut Street, Suite 120 | (215) 961-5355

Community Care: Excellent networks with Penn Medicine, Jefferson, Temple Health

Education

University of Pennsylvania (Penn)

Private, Ivy League
Yellow Ribbon: Yes
Tuition: $66,000+/year
GI Bill + Yellow Ribbon: Covers tuition for eligible students
Programs: Wharton Business School, engineering, nursing, liberal arts
BAH: ~$2,400/month (Philadelphia rate)

Temple University

Public research university
Yellow Ribbon: Unlimited for undergraduates
In-state tuition: $16,970/year (veterans receive automatically)
GI Bill: Fully covered
BAH: ~$2,400/month
Programs: Business, communications, engineering, nursing, education

Drexel University

Private
Yellow Ribbon: Unlimited contribution for unlimited students
Tuition: $58,965/year
GI Bill + Yellow Ribbon: Covers full tuition
Programs: Engineering, co-op program (paid internships), business, nursing

Community College of Philadelphia (CCP)

Tuition: $5,220/year (in-state)
GI Bill: Fully covered + $2,400/month BAH
Programs: Liberal arts, nursing, business, IT

Philadelphia has the most GI Bill education options in Pennsylvania: Penn (Ivy League), Drexel (top co-op program), Temple (large public research university), plus dozens of smaller colleges.

Veteran Community

Veteran population: 228,000 in metro area (largest in PA)
VFW posts: 70+
American Legion posts: 100+
Veterans Multi-Service Center: Major support organization providing outreach, job training, housing, counseling for Philly-area veterans
Student Veterans of America: Chapters at Penn, Temple, Drexel, most colleges

Philadelphia has the largest veteran population in Pennsylvania with extensive support networks.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

Most job opportunities in Pennsylvania (1.6M city population, 6.2M metro)
World-class education (Penn, Temple, Drexel)
Excellent VA healthcare (Crescenz VAMC rated 3-4 stars)
Large veteran community (228,000 metro area)
Culture, history, sports (Eagles, Phillies, Flyers, 76ers)
Public transportation (SEPTA—don't need a car)

Cons:

High local income tax (3.79%) on military retirement—costs $2,085/year on $55K pension
High cost of living (10%+ above national average)
High sales tax (8%)
Higher home prices ($250,000 median, $350,000-$500,000 in desirable neighborhoods)
Crime in certain neighborhoods (though improving)

Best for: Veterans seeking maximum job opportunities, student veterans using GI Bill, 100% disabled veterans (property tax exemption offsets local income tax), healthcare workers, tech professionals

Harrisburg: Affordability & Military Connections

Population: 50,000 (city), 550,000 (metro) Veteran Population: 35,000+ in metro area

Why Harrisburg Ranks High

Harrisburg is Pennsylvania's capital and offers the best combination of affordability, military connections (Carlisle Barracks 20 minutes away, Fort Indiantown Gap 30 minutes), and veteran community. It's one of the most veteran-friendly cities nationally due to heavy military presence and state government veteran programs.

Cost of Living

Housing:

Median home price: $190,000 (Dauphin County)
Median rent (2-bedroom): $1,275/month
Property tax rate: ~1.89%
Annual property tax: $3,600 (median home, non-exempt)
100% disabled veteran: $0 property tax (saves $3,600/year)

Harrisburg has the lowest housing costs among major Pennsylvania cities. Neighborhoods like Midtown and Downtown offer walkable communities with homes $150,000-$220,000.

Other Costs:

Groceries: 5% below national average
Utilities: $170/month average
Transportation: $65/month (CAT bus pass)
Income tax: 2.98% local (city + school district)

Example Budget (Military Retiree, No Disability):

Military retirement: $50,000/year
PA state income tax: $0 (exempt)
Local income tax: $1,490 (2.98%)
Mortgage: $12,000/year ($1,000/month)
Property tax: $3,600 (if own home)
Utilities/other: $7,500/year
Total expenses: ~$24,590/year
Leftover: $25,410

Harrisburg's lower housing costs and taxes ($1,490 local income tax vs. $2,085 in Philly) create significant savings.

Employment Opportunities

Major Employers:

Commonwealth of Pennsylvania (State Government)
- Employees: 80,000+ statewide (15,000+ in Harrisburg area)
- Veteran hiring: Absolute veterans' preference (must hire qualified veterans first)
- Roles: State police, corrections, transportation, environmental, admin, IT
- Pay: $45,000-$95,000
Hershey Company & Hershey Medical Center
- Location: Hershey (10 minutes from Harrisburg)
- Employees: 10,000+
- Roles: Manufacturing, healthcare, admin, IT
- Pay: $45,000-$100,000
Harrisburg University of Science & Technology
- Employees: 1,000+
- Roles: Admin, facilities, IT, faculty
- Pay: $40,000-$85,000
Defense contractors (Carlisle Barracks area)
- Various companies supporting Army War College
- Roles: IT, cybersecurity, consulting, training
- Pay: $60,000-$120,000
Logistics & Distribution
- Major distribution hubs due to central PA location
- Roles: Warehouse, logistics, transportation
- Pay: $40,000-$75,000

Veteran unemployment: ~2.8% (better than state average)

Harrisburg benefits from state government employment (veterans' preference) and proximity to Carlisle Barracks (Army War College) and Fort Indiantown Gap (Pennsylvania National Guard headquarters).

VA Healthcare

Lebanon VA Medical Center (25 minutes from Harrisburg)

Location: 1700 South Lincoln Avenue, Lebanon, PA 17042
Phone: (717) 272-6621 | (800) 409-8771
Services: Primary care, mental health, specialty care, surgery
Quality rating: 3 stars

Harrisburg Vet Center

Location: 1500 N. 2nd Street, Suite 2, Harrisburg, PA 17102
Phone: (717) 782-3954
Services: PTSD counseling, readjustment counseling, family therapy

Harrisburg doesn't have a VA medical center within city limits, but Lebanon VAMC (25 minutes) and Wilkes-Barre VAMC (90 minutes) serve the area. Community Care options are good with Penn State Health network.

Military Connections

Carlisle Barracks (Army War College): 20 minutes north—active duty Army, military contractors, defense consulting
Fort Indiantown Gap (PA National Guard HQ): 30 minutes northeast—National Guard training, state military affairs
Naval Support Activity Mechanicsburg: 15 minutes—Navy logistics support
193rd Special Operations Wing (PA Air National Guard): Harrisburg International Airport

Harrisburg has one of the highest concentrations of military installations in Pennsylvania, creating a strong veteran community and military-connected employment.

Education

Harrisburg Area Community College (HACC)

Locations: Harrisburg, York, Lancaster, Lebanon, Gettysburg
Tuition: $5,850/year (in-state)
GI Bill: Fully covered + $1,700/month BAH
Programs: Nursing, engineering tech, business, criminal justice, IT
Veteran services: Military & Veteran Services office, all staff are veterans/active military

Penn State Harrisburg

Yellow Ribbon: Yes (unlimited for undergraduates)
In-state tuition: $15,000/year (veterans receive automatically)
GI Bill: Fully covered
BAH: ~$1,700/month
Programs: Business, engineering, public affairs

Harrisburg University of Science & Technology

Private
Yellow Ribbon: Check availability
Programs: STEM, cybersecurity, IT

Pros & Cons

Pros:

Most affordable major city in PA ($190,000 median home)
Close to military installations (Carlisle Barracks, Fort Indiantown Gap)
Strong veteran community and support
State government jobs (absolute veterans' preference)
Central PA location (2.5 hours to Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Baltimore, D.C.)
Low local income tax (2.98% vs. 3.79% Philly, 3.0% Pittsburgh)

Cons:

Smaller city (50,000 population) with fewer job opportunities than Pittsburgh or Philadelphia
VA medical center is 25 minutes away (Lebanon)
Limited nightlife/culture compared to Pittsburgh or Philadelphia
Economy heavily dependent on state government

Best for: Veterans seeking extreme affordability, state government employment, military retirees wanting to stay near installations, National Guard members

Altoona: #1 for Veteran Homebuyers

Population: 43,000 Veteran Population: 4,000+

Why Altoona Ranks #1 for Homebuyers

Altoona ranked #1 nationally for veterans buying a house (2025) due to exceptional affordability, VA medical center in town, and strong veteran support. It's a small city with low cost of living ideal for retirees or veterans prioritizing homeownership.

Cost of Living

Housing:

Median home price: $135,000 (Blair County)
Median rent (2-bedroom): $900/month
Property tax rate: ~1.95%
Annual property tax: $2,630 (median home, non-exempt)
100% disabled veteran: $0 property tax (saves $2,630/year)

Altoona has some of the cheapest housing in Pennsylvania. Homes are available for $100,000-$160,000 in decent neighborhoods.

Other Costs:

Groceries: 8% below national average
Utilities: $160/month
Transportation: Minimal public transit (car needed)
Income tax: 1.35% local (city + school district)

Employment & Healthcare

Major Employers:

James E. Van Zandt VA Medical Center (in Altoona): 1,000+ employees
UPMC Altoona: 2,500+ employees
Norfolk Southern Railway: 500+ employees
Penn State Altoona: 500+ employees

VA Healthcare:

James E. Van Zandt VA Medical Center: 2907 Pleasant Valley Boulevard, Altoona, PA 16602 | (814) 943-8164
Full medical center with primary care, mental health, surgery, specialty care
Quality rating: 3 stars

Pros & Cons

Pros:

Cheapest housing in PA ($135,000 median)—#1 nationally for veteran homebuyers
VA medical center in town
Low local income tax (1.35%)
Small-town feel, low crime
Outdooractivities (Allegheny Mountains nearby)

Cons:

Limited job opportunities (43,000 population)
Declining economy (former railroad town)
Limited culture/entertainment
Car required (minimal public transit)

Best for: Retired veterans prioritizing homeownership and affordability, veterans working at VA or UPMC, outdoor enthusiasts

Erie: Affordable Lakefront Living

Population: 95,000 Veteran Population: 8,000+

Why Erie Ranks High

Erie offers the most affordable lakefront living in the Great Lakes region, VA medical center in town, and tight-knit veteran community. It's ideal for veterans seeking small-city affordability with lake access.

Cost of Living

Housing:

Median home price: $134,000 (Erie County)
Median rent (2-bedroom): $950/month
Property tax rate: ~2.16%
Annual property tax: $2,900 (median home, non-exempt)
100% disabled veteran: $0 property tax (saves $2,900/year)

Other Costs:

Groceries: 6% below national average
Utilities: $175/month
Income tax: 1.95% local

Employment & Healthcare

Major Employers:

Erie VA Medical Center: 1,500+ employees
UPMC Hamot: 3,000+ employees
Erie Insurance: 2,500+ employees
GE Transportation (Wabtec): 1,500+ employees

VA Healthcare:

Erie VA Medical Center: 135 East 38th Street, Erie, PA 16504 | (814) 868-8661
Full services including specialty care expansion (orthopedics, cardiology, neurology)
Quality rating: 3 stars

Pros & Cons

Pros:

Extremely affordable housing ($134,000 median)
VA medical center in town
Lake Erie access (beaches, boating, fishing)
Low local income tax (1.95%)
Tight-knit veteran community

Cons:

Limited job opportunities (95,000 population)
Heavy snow (lake effect)
Economy still recovering from manufacturing losses
Smaller veteran support network than Pittsburgh or Philadelphia

Best for: Retired veterans seeking affordability and lake living, outdoor enthusiasts, veterans working at VA or UPMC

State College: Best for Student Veterans

Population: 42,000 (city), 160,000 (metro) Veteran Population: 3,000+

Why State College Ranks High for Student Veterans

State College is home to Penn State's main campus and offers exceptional education benefits, low crime, high quality of life, and strong veteran student community. However, limited VA facilities and employment outside the university are drawbacks.

Cost of Living

Housing:

Median home price: $315,000 (Centre County)
Median rent (2-bedroom): $1,400/month
Property tax rate: ~1.85%

State College has higher housing costs than other mid-size PA cities due to Penn State's presence and limited housing supply.

Education

Pennsylvania State University - University Park

Veteran enrollment: 1,200+ student veterans (main campus)
Yellow Ribbon: Unlimited for undergraduates
In-state tuition: $18,450/year (veterans receive automatically)
GI Bill: Fully covered
BAH: ~$1,800/month
Office of Veterans Programs: Dedicated support, priority registration, student veteran organization

Healthcare

Nearest VA: Altoona (45 minutes)—no VA medical center in State College

State College VA Clinic: Primary care and mental health, but specialty care requires travel to Altoona

Pros & Cons

Pros:

Penn State flagship campus—excellent education
Low crime, high quality of life
Strong student veteran community
College town amenities

Cons:

No VA medical center in town (Altoona 45 minutes)
Limited veteran employment outside Penn State
High housing costs for a small city ($315,000 median)
Limited job opportunities post-graduation unless staying in academia

Best for: Student veterans using GI Bill at Penn State, spouses of students, academics

Rankings Summary

City	Overall Rank	Best For	Median Home Price	VA Facility	Veteran Pop
Pittsburgh	#1	Jobs, healthcare, veteran community	$210,000	Yes (2 campuses)	110,000+
Harrisburg	#2	Affordability, military connections	$190,000	Lebanon (25 min)	35,000+
Altoona	#3	Homebuying affordability	$135,000	Yes	4,000+
Philadelphia	#4	Job opportunities, education	$250,000	Yes	228,000+
Erie	#5	Affordability, lakefront	$134,000	Yes	8,000+
State College	#6	Student veterans (GI Bill)	$315,000	Clinic only	3,000+

Comparison: Who Should Live Where?

Choose Pittsburgh if:

You want the best overall veteran city in PA
You need strong job market (defense, healthcare, tech)
You value large veteran community (110,000+)
You want good VA healthcare (2 campuses)
You're 100% disabled (save $3,750/year property tax)

Choose Philadelphia if:

You want maximum job opportunities
You're using GI Bill (Penn, Temple, Drexel)
You value culture, entertainment, sports
You're 100% disabled (save $2,150/year property tax, though high local income tax)
You don't mind higher cost of living

Choose Harrisburg if:

You want maximum affordability among major cities
You're seeking state government employment (absolute veterans' preference)
You want proximity to military installations (Carlisle Barracks, Fort Indiantown Gap)
You value central PA location (access to Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, Baltimore, D.C.)

Choose Altoona if:

You're prioritizing homeownership (#1 nationally for veteran homebuyers)
You want extreme affordability ($135,000 median home)
You need VA medical center in town
You prefer small-town living

Choose Erie if:

You want lakefront living at extreme affordability ($134,000 median home)
You need VA medical center in town
You value outdoor recreation (lake access, fishing, boating)
You prefer small-city life

Choose State College if:

You're a student veteran attending Penn State
You value college town atmosphere
You prioritize low crime and quality of life
You don't need immediate VA medical center access (Altoona 45 min)

Additional Considerations

For 100% Disabled Veterans

Best cities (property tax savings):

Montgomery County suburbs (Philadelphia): Save $7,200/year
Bucks County (Philadelphia suburbs): Save $6,500/year
Chester County (Philadelphia suburbs): Save $6,900/year
Pittsburgh (Allegheny County): Save $3,750/year
Harrisburg (Dauphin County): Save $3,600/year

If you're 100% disabled, consider suburban Philadelphia counties for maximum property tax savings ($6,500-$7,200 annually), though home prices are higher ($380,000-$410,000).

For Military Retirees (No Disability)

Best cities (low local income tax):

Altoona: 1.35% local tax ($675 on $50K retirement)
Erie: 1.95% local tax ($975 on $50K retirement)
Harrisburg: 2.98% local tax ($1,490 on $50K retirement)
Pittsburgh: 3.0% local tax ($1,500 on $50K retirement)
Philadelphia: 3.79% local tax ($1,895 on $50K retirement)

Military retirees without disability save most in small cities (Altoona, Erie) with low local income taxes.

For Student Veterans

Best cities:

State College: Penn State flagship (unlimited Yellow Ribbon)
Philadelphia: Penn, Temple, Drexel (multiple top schools)
Pittsburgh: Pitt, CMU, Duquesne (strong programs)

For Defense Industry Employment

Best cities:

Pittsburgh: Boeing, defense contractors
Philadelphia: Boeing Rotorcraft Systems
York (near Harrisburg): BAE Systems (major defense contractor)
Carlisle area: Defense consulting/contractors supporting Army War College

Resources

Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs:

Phone: (800) 547-2838
Website: dmva.pa.gov

County Veteran Service Officers:

Allegheny County (Pittsburgh): (412) 350-4100
Philadelphia County: (215) 686-0400
Dauphin County (Harrisburg): (717) 780-6180
Erie County: (814) 451-6330
Blair County (Altoona): (814) 940-5142
Centre County (State College): (814) 355-6812

PA CareerLink (Employment Services):

Phone: (888) 313-7284
Website: pacareerlink.pa.gov

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What's the best Pennsylvania city for veterans overall?

A: Pittsburgh ranks #14 nationally and #1 in Pennsylvania due to strong job market, affordable housing ($210,000 median), large veteran community (110,000+), and VA healthcare. It's ideal for most veterans.

Q: Which Pennsylvania city is most affordable for veterans?

A: Altoona and Erie tie for most affordable (median homes $134,000-$135,000). Altoona ranked #1 nationally for veterans buying a house (2025).

Q: Should I choose Pittsburgh or Philadelphia?

A: Pittsburgh if you prioritize affordability and overall quality of life. Philadelphia if you need maximum job opportunities or world-class education (using GI Bill). Philadelphia has higher local income tax (3.79% vs. 3.0%) and cost of living.

Q: Where should 100% disabled veterans live in Pennsylvania?

A: Suburban Philadelphia counties (Montgomery, Bucks, Chester) for maximum property tax savings ($6,500-$7,200/year), though home prices are high ($380,000-$410,000). Pittsburgh offers good balance ($3,750/year savings, $210,000 median home).

Q: Which city has the best VA healthcare?

A: Philadelphia (Crescenz VAMC rated 3-4 stars, shortest wait times). Pittsburgh has two VA campuses but lower quality ratings (2-3 stars, improving). All major PA cities have VA facilities except State College (Altoona is 45 minutes away).

Q: What's the best city for student veterans?

A: State College for Penn State flagship campus experience. Philadelphia for most GI Bill school options (Penn, Temple, Drexel). Pittsburgh for strong STEM programs (Pitt, CMU).

Q: Which city has the most veteran jobs?

A: Philadelphia (228,000 veterans in metro, largest economy). Pittsburgh second (110,000 veterans, strong defense/healthcare). Harrisburg best for state government jobs (absolute veterans' preference).

Q: Should I avoid Philadelphia due to high taxes?

A: Not if you're 100% disabled (property tax exemption helps) or need maximum job opportunities. The 3.79% local income tax costs $2,085/year on $55K retirement—$600 more than Pittsburgh. Weigh against job opportunities and education options.

Q: What about rural Pennsylvania for veterans?

A: Rural PA offers extreme affordability and quality of life, but limited job opportunities and VA access. Consider counties with VA clinics (Bradford, Clearfield, Mercer) and Community Care for civilian healthcare.

Q: Which city has the best schools for military families?

A: State College (Penn State area) has top-rated schools and low crime. Suburban Pittsburgh (Fox Chapel, Mt. Lebanon) and suburban Philadelphia (Lower Merion, Tredyffrin-Easttown) also have excellent school districts.

Last updated: 2025. Rankings and data subject to change. Verify current cost of living, employment, and benefits with local resources.

Best Cities for Veterans in Pennsylvania 2025: Complete Guide

Bottom Line Up Front

Overall rankings for Pennsylvania cities:

Pittsburgh - Best overall (jobs, VA care, affordability, veteran community)
Harrisburg - Best for cost of living, military connections
Altoona - Best for home affordability
Philadelphia - Best for job opportunities (if you can afford local taxes)
Erie - Best for extreme affordability, small-town feel
State College - Best for student veterans using GI Bill

Pittsburgh: Pennsylvania's #1 Veteran City

National Ranking: #14 best city for veterans (2024) Metro Population: 2.3 million Veteran Population: 110,000+ in greater Pittsburgh area

Why Pittsburgh Ranks #1 in Pennsylvania

Veteran Score Breakdown:

Employment opportunities: Excellent (defense contractors, healthcare, tech, government)
VA healthcare: Good (two VA campuses, though quality ratings improving)
Affordability: Very Good (lower cost of living than Philadelphia)
Education: Excellent (Pitt, CMU, Duquesne, Community College of Allegheny County)
Veteran community: Excellent (110,000+ veterans, dozens of VSOs)

Cost of Living

Housing:

Median home price: $210,000 (Allegheny County)
Median rent (2-bedroom): $1,200/month
Property tax rate: 1.68% effective rate
Annual property tax: $3,750 (median home, non-exempt)
100% disabled veteran: $0 property tax (saves $3,750/year)

Other Costs:

Groceries: 5% below national average
Utilities: $180/month average
Transportation: $90/month (Port Authority bus pass)
Healthcare: Slightly below national average
Income tax: 3.0% local (city + school district) applies to military retirement

Example Budget (Military Retiree, No Disability):

Military retirement: $50,000/year
PA state income tax: $0 (exempt)
Local income tax: $1,500 (3.0%)
Mortgage/rent: $14,400/year ($1,200/month)
Property tax: $3,750 (if own home)
Utilities/other: $8,000/year
Total expenses: ~$27,650/year
Leftover: $22,350

Example (100% Disabled Veteran):

Military retirement: $50,000
VA disability: $40,000 (100% with dependents)
Total income: $90,000 (VA disability tax-free)
PA state income tax: $0 (exempt)
Local income tax: $1,500 (3.0% on retirement only—VA disability exempt)
Property tax: $0 (exempt)
Housing: $14,400/year
Utilities/other: $8,000
Total expenses: ~$23,900
Leftover: $66,100

100% disabled veterans in Pittsburgh have massive financial advantages due to property tax exemption.

Employment Opportunities

Major Employers:

UPMC (University of Pittsburgh Medical Center)
- Employees: 95,000+ (largest employer in PA)
- Veteran hiring: Active programs
- Roles: Nursing, medical techs, IT, facilities, admin, security
- Pay: $45,000-$110,000
VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System
- Employees: 5,000+
- Veteran hiring: Federal hiring preference
- Roles: Nursing, physicians, admin, IT, facilities
- Pay: $50,000-$150,000+
Boeing
- Location: Pittsburgh area (rotorcraft systems)
- Veteran hiring: Strong recruiting
- Roles: Engineering, manufacturing, program management
- Pay: $70,000-$135,000+
BAE Systems (York, PA - 90 minutes from Pittsburgh)
- Major defense contractor
- Veteran hiring: 25%+ of workforce
- Roles: Systems engineering, cybersecurity, manufacturing
- Pay: $70,000-$140,000+
Carnegie Mellon University
- Employees: 14,000
- Roles: Admin, facilities, security, research support
- Pay: $40,000-$90,000
PNC Financial Services
- Headquarters: Pittsburgh
- Veteran programs: Yes
- Roles: Banking, IT, customer service, operations
- Pay: $50,000-$100,000

Veteran unemployment: ~3.0% (mirrors national average)

Industries with high veteran hiring:

Healthcare (UPMC, Allegheny Health Network, VA)
Defense contractors (Boeing, Lockheed subcontractors)
Manufacturing (advanced manufacturing, robotics)
Technology (Google, Uber ATG, autonomous vehicle companies)
Government (city, county, state—veterans' preference applies)

VA Healthcare

VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System

University Drive Campus: University Drive C, Pittsburgh, PA 15240 | (866) 482-7488
H. John Heinz III Campus: 1010 Delafield Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15215
Services: Comprehensive care including primary care, specialty care, mental health, surgery, inpatient, long-term care
Quality rating: 2-3 stars (improving)
Wait times: Primary care 20-30 days; specialty care 35-50 days
Specialties: Geriatrics, PTSD programs, prosthetics, spinal cord injury

Pittsburgh Vet Center

Location: 2500 Baldwick Road, Suite 15, Pittsburgh, PA 15205
Phone: (412) 920-1765
Services: PTSD counseling, readjustment counseling, MST therapy

Community Care: Excellent TRICARE and VA Community Care networks with UPMC, Allegheny Health Network

Education

University of Pittsburgh

Yellow Ribbon: Yes
In-state tuition for veterans: $19,080/year (automatic)
GI Bill: Fully covered
BAH: ~$1,800/month
Programs: Engineering, nursing, business, health sciences
Veteran services: Office of Veterans Services

Carnegie Mellon University

Private, elite STEM university
Yellow Ribbon: Limited
Tuition: $63,000+/year
Programs: Computer science, engineering, robotics, business

Community College of Allegheny County (CCAC)

Tuition: $5,400/year (in-state)
GI Bill: Fully covered + BAH
Programs: Nursing, business, IT, manufacturing, automotive

Duquesne University

Private Catholic university
Yellow Ribbon: Yes
Programs: Business, pharmacy, nursing, education

Veteran Community

Veteran population: 110,000+ in metro area
VFW posts: 50+
American Legion posts: 70+
Veterans Leadership Program: Major support organization serving 8,000+ veterans annually (housing, employment, career services)
Student Veterans of America: Chapters at Pitt, CMU, Duquesne

Pittsburgh has a tight-knit veteran community with extensive support networks. Annual events include Veterans Day Parade, Memorial Day ceremonies, and veteran job fairs.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

#14 nationally for veterans—Pennsylvania's best
Affordable housing ($210,000 median)
Strong job market (healthcare, defense, tech)
100% disabled veterans save $3,750/year on property taxes
Large veteran community (110,000+)
Good education options (Pitt, CMU, CCAC)
Rich history, culture, sports (Steelers, Penguins, Pirates)

Cons:

3.0% local income tax applies to military retirement
VA healthcare quality ratings below average (improving)
Specialty care wait times 35-50 days
Winter weather (cold, snow)
Economy still transitioning from steel industry (though much improved)

Best for: 100% disabled veterans, military retirees, veterans seeking affordable housing with strong job market, healthcare workers, engineers

Philadelphia: Jobs & Opportunity (But Higher Costs)

Metro Population: 6.2 million (largest in PA) Veteran Population: 228,000 in metro area City Population: 1.6 million

Why Philadelphia Ranks High (With Caveats)

Cost of Living

Housing:

Median home price: $250,000 (Philadelphia County)
Median rent (2-bedroom): $1,600/month
Property tax rate: 0.86% (lowest in PA among major cities)
Annual property tax: $2,150 (median home, non-exempt)
100% disabled veteran: $0 property tax (saves $2,150/year)

Other Costs:

Groceries: 10% above national average
Utilities: $200/month average
Transportation: $96/month (SEPTA pass)
Sales tax: 8% (highest in PA: 6% state + 2% local)
Income tax: 3.79% local (city + school district) applies to military retirement

Example Budget (Military Retiree, No Disability):

Military retirement: $55,000/year
PA state income tax: $0 (exempt)
Local income tax: $2,085 (3.79%)
Mortgage/rent: $19,200/year ($1,600/month)
Property tax: $2,150 (if own home)
Utilities/other: $10,000/year
Total expenses: ~$33,435/year
Leftover: $21,565

Example (100% Disabled Veteran):

Military retirement: $55,000
VA disability: $40,000
Total income: $95,000 (VA disability tax-free)
Local income tax: $2,085 (3.79% on retirement only)
Property tax: $0 (exempt)
Housing: $19,200
Utilities/other: $10,000
Total expenses: ~$31,285
Leftover: $63,715

Employment Opportunities

Major Employers:

Comcast Corporation
- Headquarters: Philadelphia
- Employees: 20,000+ in Philly
- Veteran hiring: Military Skills Transition Program
- Roles: IT, network operations, customer service, engineering, media production
- Pay: $50,000-$120,000
Penn Medicine (University of Pennsylvania Health System)
- Employees: 45,000+
- Veteran hiring: Active programs
- Roles: Nursing, physicians, medical techs, admin, IT, security
- Pay: $48,000-$110,000
Veterans Affairs Medical Center (Philadelphia)
- Employees: 4,000+
- Veteran hiring: Federal hiring preference
- Roles: Healthcare, admin, IT, facilities
- Pay: $50,000-$160,000+
Boeing (Rotorcraft Systems)
- Location: Ridley Park (suburban Philadelphia)
- Veteran hiring: Strong programs
- Roles: Engineering, manufacturing, program management
- Pay: $70,000-$135,000+
Jefferson Health System
- Employees: 35,000+
- Roles: Nursing, medical techs, admin, facilities
- Pay: $45,000-$105,000
City of Philadelphia
- Veteran hiring: Veterans' preference for civil service exams
- Roles: Police, fire, streets, water, admin
- Pay: $45,000-$95,000
Amazon
- Multiple fulfillment centers in Philly metro
- Veteran programs: Military Talent Program
- Roles: Operations, warehouse management, logistics
- Pay: $40,000-$85,000

Veteran unemployment: ~3.3%

Philadelphia's economy is diverse: healthcare (Penn Medicine, Jefferson, Temple Health), education (Penn, Temple, Drexel), tech (Comcast, startups), finance, and manufacturing.

VA Healthcare

Corporal Michael J. Crescenz VA Medical Center

Location: 3900 Woodland Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19104
Phone: (215) 823-5800 | (800) 949-1001
Services: Comprehensive care including primary care, specialty care (cardiology, oncology, neurology, orthopedics), mental health, surgery, inpatient, emergency (24/7)
Beds: 280+ operating beds
Quality rating: 3-4 stars (above average)
Wait times: Primary care 15-20 days; specialty care 30-45 days; mental health 20-25 days
Specialties: Spinal cord injury center, polytrauma unit, prosthetics

Philadelphia VAMC is one of the East Coast's premier VA facilities with excellent quality ratings and shorter wait times than Pittsburgh.

Vet Centers:

Northeast Philadelphia Vet Center: 101 E. Olney Avenue | (215) 924-4670
Center City Philadelphia Vet Center: 1500 Chestnut Street, Suite 120 | (215) 961-5355

Community Care: Excellent networks with Penn Medicine, Jefferson, Temple Health

Education

University of Pennsylvania (Penn)

Private, Ivy League
Yellow Ribbon: Yes
Tuition: $66,000+/year
GI Bill + Yellow Ribbon: Covers tuition for eligible students
Programs: Wharton Business School, engineering, nursing, liberal arts
BAH: ~$2,400/month (Philadelphia rate)

Temple University

Public research university
Yellow Ribbon: Unlimited for undergraduates
In-state tuition: $16,970/year (veterans receive automatically)
GI Bill: Fully covered
BAH: ~$2,400/month
Programs: Business, communications, engineering, nursing, education

Drexel University

Private
Yellow Ribbon: Unlimited contribution for unlimited students
Tuition: $58,965/year
GI Bill + Yellow Ribbon: Covers full tuition
Programs: Engineering, co-op program (paid internships), business, nursing

Community College of Philadelphia (CCP)

Tuition: $5,220/year (in-state)
GI Bill: Fully covered + $2,400/month BAH
Programs: Liberal arts, nursing, business, IT

Philadelphia has the most GI Bill education options in Pennsylvania: Penn (Ivy League), Drexel (top co-op program), Temple (large public research university), plus dozens of smaller colleges.

Veteran Community

Veteran population: 228,000 in metro area (largest in PA)
VFW posts: 70+
American Legion posts: 100+
Veterans Multi-Service Center: Major support organization providing outreach, job training, housing, counseling for Philly-area veterans
Student Veterans of America: Chapters at Penn, Temple, Drexel, most colleges

Philadelphia has the largest veteran population in Pennsylvania with extensive support networks.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

Most job opportunities in Pennsylvania (1.6M city population, 6.2M metro)
World-class education (Penn, Temple, Drexel)
Excellent VA healthcare (Crescenz VAMC rated 3-4 stars)
Large veteran community (228,000 metro area)
Culture, history, sports (Eagles, Phillies, Flyers, 76ers)
Public transportation (SEPTA—don't need a car)

Cons:

High local income tax (3.79%) on military retirement—costs $2,085/year on $55K pension
High cost of living (10%+ above national average)
High sales tax (8%)
Higher home prices ($250,000 median, $350,000-$500,000 in desirable neighborhoods)
Crime in certain neighborhoods (though improving)

Harrisburg: Affordability & Military Connections

Population: 50,000 (city), 550,000 (metro) Veteran Population: 35,000+ in metro area

Why Harrisburg Ranks High

Cost of Living

Housing:

Median home price: $190,000 (Dauphin County)
Median rent (2-bedroom): $1,275/month
Property tax rate: ~1.89%
Annual property tax: $3,600 (median home, non-exempt)
100% disabled veteran: $0 property tax (saves $3,600/year)

Harrisburg has the lowest housing costs among major Pennsylvania cities. Neighborhoods like Midtown and Downtown offer walkable communities with homes $150,000-$220,000.

Other Costs:

Groceries: 5% below national average
Utilities: $170/month average
Transportation: $65/month (CAT bus pass)
Income tax: 2.98% local (city + school district)

Example Budget (Military Retiree, No Disability):

Military retirement: $50,000/year
PA state income tax: $0 (exempt)
Local income tax: $1,490 (2.98%)
Mortgage: $12,000/year ($1,000/month)
Property tax: $3,600 (if own home)
Utilities/other: $7,500/year
Total expenses: ~$24,590/year
Leftover: $25,410

Harrisburg's lower housing costs and taxes ($1,490 local income tax vs. $2,085 in Philly) create significant savings.

Employment Opportunities

Major Employers:

Commonwealth of Pennsylvania (State Government)
- Employees: 80,000+ statewide (15,000+ in Harrisburg area)
- Veteran hiring: Absolute veterans' preference (must hire qualified veterans first)
- Roles: State police, corrections, transportation, environmental, admin, IT
- Pay: $45,000-$95,000
Hershey Company & Hershey Medical Center
- Location: Hershey (10 minutes from Harrisburg)
- Employees: 10,000+
- Roles: Manufacturing, healthcare, admin, IT
- Pay: $45,000-$100,000
Harrisburg University of Science & Technology
- Employees: 1,000+
- Roles: Admin, facilities, IT, faculty
- Pay: $40,000-$85,000
Defense contractors (Carlisle Barracks area)
- Various companies supporting Army War College
- Roles: IT, cybersecurity, consulting, training
- Pay: $60,000-$120,000
Logistics & Distribution
- Major distribution hubs due to central PA location
- Roles: Warehouse, logistics, transportation
- Pay: $40,000-$75,000

Veteran unemployment: ~2.8% (better than state average)

Harrisburg benefits from state government employment (veterans' preference) and proximity to Carlisle Barracks (Army War College) and Fort Indiantown Gap (Pennsylvania National Guard headquarters).

VA Healthcare

Lebanon VA Medical Center (25 minutes from Harrisburg)

Location: 1700 South Lincoln Avenue, Lebanon, PA 17042
Phone: (717) 272-6621 | (800) 409-8771
Services: Primary care, mental health, specialty care, surgery
Quality rating: 3 stars

Harrisburg Vet Center

Location: 1500 N. 2nd Street, Suite 2, Harrisburg, PA 17102
Phone: (717) 782-3954
Services: PTSD counseling, readjustment counseling, family therapy

Military Connections

Carlisle Barracks (Army War College): 20 minutes north—active duty Army, military contractors, defense consulting
Fort Indiantown Gap (PA National Guard HQ): 30 minutes northeast—National Guard training, state military affairs
Naval Support Activity Mechanicsburg: 15 minutes—Navy logistics support
193rd Special Operations Wing (PA Air National Guard): Harrisburg International Airport

Harrisburg has one of the highest concentrations of military installations in Pennsylvania, creating a strong veteran community and military-connected employment.

Education

Harrisburg Area Community College (HACC)

Locations: Harrisburg, York, Lancaster, Lebanon, Gettysburg
Tuition: $5,850/year (in-state)
GI Bill: Fully covered + $1,700/month BAH
Programs: Nursing, engineering tech, business, criminal justice, IT
Veteran services: Military & Veteran Services office, all staff are veterans/active military

Penn State Harrisburg

Yellow Ribbon: Yes (unlimited for undergraduates)
In-state tuition: $15,000/year (veterans receive automatically)
GI Bill: Fully covered
BAH: ~$1,700/month
Programs: Business, engineering, public affairs

Harrisburg University of Science & Technology

Private
Yellow Ribbon: Check availability
Programs: STEM, cybersecurity, IT

Pros & Cons

Pros:

Most affordable major city in PA ($190,000 median home)
Close to military installations (Carlisle Barracks, Fort Indiantown Gap)
Strong veteran community and support
State government jobs (absolute veterans' preference)
Central PA location (2.5 hours to Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Baltimore, D.C.)
Low local income tax (2.98% vs. 3.79% Philly, 3.0% Pittsburgh)

Cons:

Smaller city (50,000 population) with fewer job opportunities than Pittsburgh or Philadelphia
VA medical center is 25 minutes away (Lebanon)
Limited nightlife/culture compared to Pittsburgh or Philadelphia
Economy heavily dependent on state government

Best for: Veterans seeking extreme affordability, state government employment, military retirees wanting to stay near installations, National Guard members

Altoona: #1 for Veteran Homebuyers

Population: 43,000 Veteran Population: 4,000+

Why Altoona Ranks #1 for Homebuyers

Cost of Living

Housing:

Median home price: $135,000 (Blair County)
Median rent (2-bedroom): $900/month
Property tax rate: ~1.95%
Annual property tax: $2,630 (median home, non-exempt)
100% disabled veteran: $0 property tax (saves $2,630/year)

Altoona has some of the cheapest housing in Pennsylvania. Homes are available for $100,000-$160,000 in decent neighborhoods.

Other Costs:

Groceries: 8% below national average
Utilities: $160/month
Transportation: Minimal public transit (car needed)
Income tax: 1.35% local (city + school district)

Employment & Healthcare

Major Employers:

James E. Van Zandt VA Medical Center (in Altoona): 1,000+ employees
UPMC Altoona: 2,500+ employees
Norfolk Southern Railway: 500+ employees
Penn State Altoona: 500+ employees

VA Healthcare:

James E. Van Zandt VA Medical Center: 2907 Pleasant Valley Boulevard, Altoona, PA 16602 | (814) 943-8164
Full medical center with primary care, mental health, surgery, specialty care
Quality rating: 3 stars

Pros & Cons

Pros:

Cheapest housing in PA ($135,000 median)—#1 nationally for veteran homebuyers
VA medical center in town
Low local income tax (1.35%)
Small-town feel, low crime
Outdooractivities (Allegheny Mountains nearby)

Cons:

Limited job opportunities (43,000 population)
Declining economy (former railroad town)
Limited culture/entertainment
Car required (minimal public transit)

Best for: Retired veterans prioritizing homeownership and affordability, veterans working at VA or UPMC, outdoor enthusiasts

Erie: Affordable Lakefront Living

Population: 95,000 Veteran Population: 8,000+

Why Erie Ranks High

Cost of Living

Housing:

Median home price: $134,000 (Erie County)
Median rent (2-bedroom): $950/month
Property tax rate: ~2.16%
Annual property tax: $2,900 (median home, non-exempt)
100% disabled veteran: $0 property tax (saves $2,900/year)

Other Costs:

Groceries: 6% below national average
Utilities: $175/month
Income tax: 1.95% local

Employment & Healthcare

Major Employers:

Erie VA Medical Center: 1,500+ employees
UPMC Hamot: 3,000+ employees
Erie Insurance: 2,500+ employees
GE Transportation (Wabtec): 1,500+ employees

VA Healthcare:

Erie VA Medical Center: 135 East 38th Street, Erie, PA 16504 | (814) 868-8661
Full services including specialty care expansion (orthopedics, cardiology, neurology)
Quality rating: 3 stars

Pros & Cons

Pros:

Extremely affordable housing ($134,000 median)
VA medical center in town
Lake Erie access (beaches, boating, fishing)
Low local income tax (1.95%)
Tight-knit veteran community

Cons:

Limited job opportunities (95,000 population)
Heavy snow (lake effect)
Economy still recovering from manufacturing losses
Smaller veteran support network than Pittsburgh or Philadelphia

Best for: Retired veterans seeking affordability and lake living, outdoor enthusiasts, veterans working at VA or UPMC

State College: Best for Student Veterans

Population: 42,000 (city), 160,000 (metro) Veteran Population: 3,000+

Why State College Ranks High for Student Veterans

Cost of Living

Housing:

Median home price: $315,000 (Centre County)
Median rent (2-bedroom): $1,400/month
Property tax rate: ~1.85%

State College has higher housing costs than other mid-size PA cities due to Penn State's presence and limited housing supply.

Education

Pennsylvania State University - University Park

Veteran enrollment: 1,200+ student veterans (main campus)
Yellow Ribbon: Unlimited for undergraduates
In-state tuition: $18,450/year (veterans receive automatically)
GI Bill: Fully covered
BAH: ~$1,800/month
Office of Veterans Programs: Dedicated support, priority registration, student veteran organization

Healthcare

Nearest VA: Altoona (45 minutes)—no VA medical center in State College

State College VA Clinic: Primary care and mental health, but specialty care requires travel to Altoona

Pros & Cons

Pros:

Penn State flagship campus—excellent education
Low crime, high quality of life
Strong student veteran community
College town amenities

Cons:

No VA medical center in town (Altoona 45 minutes)
Limited veteran employment outside Penn State
High housing costs for a small city ($315,000 median)
Limited job opportunities post-graduation unless staying in academia

Best for: Student veterans using GI Bill at Penn State, spouses of students, academics

Rankings Summary

City	Overall Rank	Best For	Median Home Price	VA Facility	Veteran Pop
Pittsburgh	#1	Jobs, healthcare, veteran community	$210,000	Yes (2 campuses)	110,000+
Harrisburg	#2	Affordability, military connections	$190,000	Lebanon (25 min)	35,000+
Altoona	#3	Homebuying affordability	$135,000	Yes	4,000+
Philadelphia	#4	Job opportunities, education	$250,000	Yes	228,000+
Erie	#5	Affordability, lakefront	$134,000	Yes	8,000+
State College	#6	Student veterans (GI Bill)	$315,000	Clinic only	3,000+

Comparison: Who Should Live Where?

Choose Pittsburgh if:

You want the best overall veteran city in PA
You need strong job market (defense, healthcare, tech)
You value large veteran community (110,000+)
You want good VA healthcare (2 campuses)
You're 100% disabled (save $3,750/year property tax)

Choose Philadelphia if:

You want maximum job opportunities
You're using GI Bill (Penn, Temple, Drexel)
You value culture, entertainment, sports
You're 100% disabled (save $2,150/year property tax, though high local income tax)
You don't mind higher cost of living

Choose Harrisburg if:

You want maximum affordability among major cities
You're seeking state government employment (absolute veterans' preference)
You want proximity to military installations (Carlisle Barracks, Fort Indiantown Gap)
You value central PA location (access to Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, Baltimore, D.C.)

Choose Altoona if:

You're prioritizing homeownership (#1 nationally for veteran homebuyers)
You want extreme affordability ($135,000 median home)
You need VA medical center in town
You prefer small-town living

Choose Erie if:

You want lakefront living at extreme affordability ($134,000 median home)
You need VA medical center in town
You value outdoor recreation (lake access, fishing, boating)
You prefer small-city life

Choose State College if:

You're a student veteran attending Penn State
You value college town atmosphere
You prioritize low crime and quality of life
You don't need immediate VA medical center access (Altoona 45 min)

Additional Considerations

For 100% Disabled Veterans

Best cities (property tax savings):

Montgomery County suburbs (Philadelphia): Save $7,200/year
Bucks County (Philadelphia suburbs): Save $6,500/year
Chester County (Philadelphia suburbs): Save $6,900/year
Pittsburgh (Allegheny County): Save $3,750/year
Harrisburg (Dauphin County): Save $3,600/year

If you're 100% disabled, consider suburban Philadelphia counties for maximum property tax savings ($6,500-$7,200 annually), though home prices are higher ($380,000-$410,000).

For Military Retirees (No Disability)

Best cities (low local income tax):

Altoona: 1.35% local tax ($675 on $50K retirement)
Erie: 1.95% local tax ($975 on $50K retirement)
Harrisburg: 2.98% local tax ($1,490 on $50K retirement)
Pittsburgh: 3.0% local tax ($1,500 on $50K retirement)
Philadelphia: 3.79% local tax ($1,895 on $50K retirement)

Military retirees without disability save most in small cities (Altoona, Erie) with low local income taxes.

For Student Veterans

Best cities:

State College: Penn State flagship (unlimited Yellow Ribbon)
Philadelphia: Penn, Temple, Drexel (multiple top schools)
Pittsburgh: Pitt, CMU, Duquesne (strong programs)

For Defense Industry Employment

Best cities:

Pittsburgh: Boeing, defense contractors
Philadelphia: Boeing Rotorcraft Systems
York (near Harrisburg): BAE Systems (major defense contractor)
Carlisle area: Defense consulting/contractors supporting Army War College

Resources

Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs:

Phone: (800) 547-2838
Website: dmva.pa.gov

County Veteran Service Officers:

Allegheny County (Pittsburgh): (412) 350-4100
Philadelphia County: (215) 686-0400
Dauphin County (Harrisburg): (717) 780-6180
Erie County: (814) 451-6330
Blair County (Altoona): (814) 940-5142
Centre County (State College): (814) 355-6812

PA CareerLink (Employment Services):

Phone: (888) 313-7284
Website: pacareerlink.pa.gov

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What's the best Pennsylvania city for veterans overall?

Q: Which Pennsylvania city is most affordable for veterans?

A: Altoona and Erie tie for most affordable (median homes $134,000-$135,000). Altoona ranked #1 nationally for veterans buying a house (2025).

Q: Should I choose Pittsburgh or Philadelphia?

Q: Where should 100% disabled veterans live in Pennsylvania?

Q: Which city has the best VA healthcare?

Q: What's the best city for student veterans?

A: State College for Penn State flagship campus experience. Philadelphia for most GI Bill school options (Penn, Temple, Drexel). Pittsburgh for strong STEM programs (Pitt, CMU).

Q: Which city has the most veteran jobs?

Q: Should I avoid Philadelphia due to high taxes?

Q: What about rural Pennsylvania for veterans?

Q: Which city has the best schools for military families?

Last updated: 2025. Rankings and data subject to change. Verify current cost of living, employment, and benefits with local resources.