Sun, fun, ocean waves, and sandy beaches make Miami a top choice for many veterans and retirees. As the 42nd-most populous city in the United States, the Miami metropolitan area, has a combined population of nearly 6 million people making it one of the largest cities in the Southeastern United States.

In addition to being one of the largest cities in the US, Florida and the Miami metro-area have accumulated the largest concentration of veterans in the United States. Nearly 1.5 million vets call the state home. It is no wonder the state has a rich history of top-notch veteran resources. Let’s take a few minutes to review what Miami and the state have to offer local vets.

For veterans looking to get acclimated to the region, the MiamiDade.gov website provides a comprehensive overview of everything in the area. From this site, veterans and family members can navigate through the city’s resources. A quick search for “veterans” will pull up a directory of veterans services.

Vet Centers were established to provide support for veterans and their families in a period of transition. Mostly commonly utilized when a veteran is returning from duty or overcoming a significant physical or mental challenge. Services for a veteran through the Vet Center may include support groups or counseling for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), alcohol and drug assessment, and suicide prevention referrals. All services are free and confidential. The nearest Veteran Service Center is located on 27th Street in Miami.

Veterans needing help getting their benefits can always reach out to the local Department of Veteran Affairs. The Florida Department (FDVA) is the first stop for Florida veterans to access earned military services, benefits and support.

For veterans needing service beyond administrative and benefits help, the local Veterans of Foreign Wars facility is easily accessible. With multiple chapters across the state and the Miami area, VFWs are ideally suited for the vet that is seeking camaraderie and support. Visit http://myfloridavfw.org/post-directory/ for a comprehensive list of Florida’s VFWs.

When a veteran needs medical treatment, the Bruce W. Carter Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center can be found in Miami.  Located on part of a 26 acre medical park and offering 432 hospital beds, the Carter VA Medical Center provides area vets access to specializations in immediate care, surgery, and enhanced geriatric services.

Need more Miami veteran resources or Florida veterans resources? Check out these articles for more information on Miami Veteran Benefits and Veteran Support Groups.

Written by Brook Appelbaum