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The veteran population decreased by 19%, from 20.3 million in 2013 to approximately 16.5 million in 2024. Projections suggest it could drop to about 13.4 million by 2033

Source: (VA HSR&D)

Insights: This 19% decline points to an aging veteran demographic. The projected 33% further decrease by 2033 means an increasing need for specialized geriatric and chronic care services. The smaller, aging population will require more focused support as fewer new veterans enter the system.

Veteran homelessness decreased by 52%, from 62,619 in 2010 to 30,500 in 2024. Despite this, there was a 7.4% increase from 2022 to 2024, adding approximately 2,100 homeless veteran

VETERAN SUICIDE RATE

Source: (VA.GOV)

Insights: The veteran suicide rate being 209% higher than the general population highlights an ongoing mental health crisis. To address this, mental health programs need to improve their effectiveness by at least 10%, focusing on unique veteran stressors such as combat-related trauma.

The veteran unemployment rate rose to 6.5% in 2020 but improved to 3.1% by 2024, a 52% decrease

Source: (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)

Insights: The 52% reduction reflects successful job programs. However, the current 3.1% unemployment rate for veterans remains 0.6% higher than the general population’s 2.5%. This gap indicates that targeted support is still necessary to help veterans transition their military skills into civilian job markets.

The VA’s budget increased from $154 billion in FY 2013 to $301.4 billion in FY 2024, a 95.7% increase

Source: (Congressional Budget Office)

Insights: The $147.4 billion increase in the budget highlights the growing demand for VA services. Effective utilization of this funding is critical to improving care quality and addressing an expanding array of needs, including advanced healthcare and disability support.

VA healthcare enrollment grew by 15.4%, from 7.8 million in 2013 to over 9 million in 2024

Source: (VA.gov)

Insights: The $147.4 billion increase in the budget highlights the growing demand for VA services. Effective utilization of this funding is critical to improving care quality and addressing an expanding array of needs, including advanced healthcare and disability support.

The Post-9/11 GI Bill has provided education benefits to over 2.2 million veterans and their dependents, contributing to a 35% increase in higher education attainment since 2010

Source: (VA HSR&D)

Insights: The GI Bill's impact on educational attainment demonstrates its effectiveness in aiding veterans' transitions. Continued expansion of educational benefits is essential to meet evolving needs, particularly as higher education becomes increasingly important for civilian careers.

Approximately 15% of veterans face substance abuse issues, with VA programs expanding but still facing challenges

Source: (VA.gov)

Insights: The 15% prevalence rate highlights the significant challenge of substance abuse among veterans. Effective treatment programs need to be expanded and improved to address this issue, particularly as it often intersects with PTSD and other mental health conditions.

At InHouse America, we support the 2.5 million veteran-owned businesses in the U.S., which make up 9% of all small businesses. Our mission is to provide targeted resources and support to help these veterans succeed in their entrepreneurial ventures within the coming future. And we plan on creating even more awareness of the importance of supporting veteran businesses!

inHouse America doesn't endorse anyone but focuses on creating awareness of the importance of supporting small businesses and which administration is best for doing so!