Navy Federal Credit Union has unveiled its 2024 Best Cities After Service list in collaboration with Sperling’s BestPlaces. This report aims to assist military servicemembers, Veterans, and their families in transitioning to civilian life by evaluating the pros and cons of various U.S. cities.

Clay Stackhouse, a retired Marine Corps colonel and regional outreach manager at Navy Federal, emphasized the challenges faced by Veterans: “When you leave military service, finding a home, starting a new career and making a financial plan are daunting steps.” He added that it is crucial to provide resources supporting them through this transition.

The credit union evaluated over 400 cities based on factors like Veteran success and wellness, affordability, economic health, climate, recreational opportunities, crime rate, community diversity, proximity to airports, quality of schools, and health resources. Bert Sperling from Sperling's BestPlaces highlighted the importance of these rankings: “More than ever, choosing the right place to live can be the springboard for success and happiness.”

Sarasota in Florida topped the list as an ideal location for Veterans. Other notable mentions include Norwich in Connecticut; Derry in New Hampshire; Omaha in Nebraska; Portland in Maine; Virginia Beach in Virginia; Sebastian in Florida; Oklahoma City in Oklahoma; Duluth in Minnesota; and Rapid City in South Dakota.

The initiative reflects Navy Federal’s commitment to addressing the needs of military communities. The credit union also supports The Mission Continues by donating to empower Veterans serving their communities.

Navy Federal Credit Union was established in 1933 and now serves 14 million members globally. It remains committed to prioritizing its members' financial needs.

For further details about the survey methodology or more resources on transitioning to civilian life, visit navyfederal.org/militarylife.