Deciding where to live when completing your military service is a huge decision. Many factors come into play, including your next job. But you also want to find good schools for your kids, entertainment and dining that pique your interest, and a nice place to call home that supports the military and veteran community.
Northern Virginia, specifically Fairfax County, is a wonderful place for veterans and military families to live and build meaningful careers. Here are some reasons moving to Northern Virginia is a great idea.
Career Opportunities
Northern Virginia is an ideal location to build a meaningful career. From Fortune 500 companies to federal agencies and rising startups, employers are consistently hiring across the government, IT, finance, defense, renewable energy and health care sectors.
Located in the second-largest metro area for veterans, Northern Virginia is a welcoming hub for military service members, veterans and their families.
To further support the military community, the Fairfax County Economic Development Authority hosts a series of in-person and virtual career fairs to help connect job seekers to lucrative roles in the region. These expos not only introduce the military community to hiring employers but also provide valuable resume translation guidance, as well as community, and military spouse career education services.
The next opportunity to attend a free career fair will be May 10 and 11. An in-person event is planned at the National Museum of the United States Army at Fort Belvoir, Virginia, on May 10 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
The following day, May 11, a virtual event is planned for 1p.m. to 4 p.m. Those interested can view the complete list of companies attending and register here.
Community
Located in the second-largest metro area for veterans, Northern Virginia is a welcoming hub for military service members, veterans and their families. With access to 27 military bases across the state, you can also travel easily to a local base such as Fort Belvoir to use your health care or commissary benefits.
Northern Virginia schools are among the top-rated in Virginia, with high graduation rates. In fact, eight out of the top ten public high schools in the state are in Northern Virginia. The area also offers plenty of private-school options to fit your needs.
Start a Business
For veterans or family members interested in starting their own business, Northern Virginia is one of the best places in the country to do that. With more than 1,900 veteran-owned businesses in Fairfax County alone, the region offers assistance to entrepreneurs through step-by-step guidance and free support, as well as access to funding opportunities through groups such as the Fairfax Founders Fund. Leading national colleges, including George Mason University, are a great source for employees and interns as you take your business to the next level.
Quality of Life
Northern Virginia communities are often ranked among the most livable areas of the country, thanks to their vibrant arts and culture scene, outdoor recreation options, professional sports teams, diverse international cuisine and accessible public transportation. From veteran-owned breweries like Honor Brewing Company, to exploring the history of the nation’s capital, there’s plenty to keep your family busy. And you can rest easy knowing you’re living in one of the safest areas to raise children.
Veteran Support
Approximately 80,000 veterans live in Fairfax County, according to the US Census. Fairfax County’s WorkInNorthernVirginia.com and the Virginia Department of Veterans Services offer support for veterans and their families through in-person and virtual career expos, educational and career counseling, and tax guidance.
With a strong regional military community, Northern Virginia businesses are creating supportive employment opportunities for veterans and military spouses – no matter where your commitment to service might take you, explains Victor Hoskins, president and CEO of the Fairfax County Economic Development Authority (FCEDA).
"These Northern Virginia-based employers recognize that service can take you around the country, and they're committed to remaining flexible in those transitions and supporting long-term career growth, no matter the location,” Hoskins says.
Interested in advancing your career in Northern Virginia? Register for the free two-day veteran and military spouse career fair on May 10-11, 2023.
