High-tech companies and military contractors located throughout Northern Virginia and suburban Maryland also hire many retired servicemembers. In terms of culture, the nation's capital contains some of the best art galleries and museums in the country. Theaters, trendy restaurants, and live entertainment venues also encourage residents to get out and about. Given all the area has to offer, it's not surprising that more than 21,000 TROA members call Washington and its surrounding suburbs home. However, the area does have its drawbacks.
Traffic can be a nightmare, and housing is expensive.
The cost of living in Washington is 23 percent above the national average. Retreat in the Rockies Colorado Springs is a military town. Three military bases and the U.S. Air Force Academy are located here, and the Department of Defense generates 43 percent of the local economy. You won't have to look very hard in Colorado Springs to find other people who share your experiences, background, and interests. Approximately 73,000 military folks live in the area, and the Colorado Springs area has more than 65,000 veterans.