Reports and Statistics

North Carolina is home to 615,440 veterans as of 2023, representing 7.3% of the state's population. The following insights about NC veterans reflect current demographic trends and shifts within this population, drawn from official statistics provided by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and the U.S. Census Bureau.  The veteran community is predominantly male (86.7%), while female veterans represent about 13.3%.

The veteran community spans multiple generations, with the largest groups serving during the Gulf War post-9/11 era (31.3%) and Vietnam era (29.9%). The federal government invested over $12 billion in North Carolina veterans during fiscal year 2023 through compensation, pension, medical care, and other benefits, a significant increase from $4.2 billion in 2012. North Carolina veterans demonstrate strong economic indicators, with a 3.7% unemployment rate below the state average, a median income of $50,169, and an impressive 79% homeownership rate among veteran-headed households. The veteran community includes approximately 10,714 veteran-owned businesses employing nearly 98,000 individuals.

However, challenges remain: 7.8% of veterans live below the poverty line, 37% have service-connected disabilities, and 777 veterans experienced homelessness in 2023. Educationally, over 30,500 students are enrolled under GI Bill programs in North Carolina, with 72% of veterans having completed some college education or higher, reflecting the community's commitment to continued learning and professional development.

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