(Photo: U.S. Army Sgt. Alexis Washburn-Jasinski)
Nearly 3,000 Women Veterans across all 58 California counties participated in the California Department of Veterans Affairs 2025 Women Veterans Survey.
The results provide one of the most detailed snapshots in more than a decade of how women who served are navigating life after the military. The findings identify ongoing challenges as well as emerging priorities that are shaping how the state approaches Veteran services.
Women Veterans make up approximately 11 percent of California’s Veteran population, representing nearly 150,000 individuals. The survey provides insight to guide federal, state, and local efforts focused on improving access to healthcare, housing, benefits, and supportive services.
Respondents represented a more diverse population than in previous surveys, with higher participation among women identifying as two or more races, American Indian or Alaska Native, and Pacific Islander. Approximately 16 percent identified as LGBTQIA+, consistent with prior surveys but now supported by a much larger sample size. Nearly half of the respondents were age 61 or older, while younger Post-9/11 Veterans also showed increased participation.
Outreach through email campaigns, social media, and community partnerships resulted in more than 2,700 qualified responses, nearly tripling participation compared to earlier surveys conducted between 2009 and 2013. For the first time, responses were received from every county in California, capturing perspectives from urban, suburban, and rural communities.
The survey showed that healthcare access remains a central issue. Sixty-six percent of respondents reported currently receiving care through the Department of Veterans Affairs, up from 47 percent in 2013. Overall, three-quarters have used VA healthcare at some point, with most rating their local VA facility as accessible. Awareness of County Veterans Service Offices was also high, with 60 percent of respondents reporting familiarity with their local office.
Mental and behavioral health emerged as one of the most pressing concerns. About 70 percent of respondents who answered mental health questions reported experiencing symptoms or receiving a diagnosis related to mental health conditions, with PTSD, anxiety, depression, and musculoskeletal disorders among the most common. Many linked these challenges directly to their military service, including experiences of Military Sexual Trauma.
Housing instability continues to affect a significant portion of Women Veterans. While five percent reported current homelessness or housing insecurity, nearly one-third said they had experienced it at some point in their lives. Many relied on informal arrangements such as staying with friends or family, a pattern that often leads to underreported housing instability, especially among women with caregiving responsibilities.
Disability compensation also remains a complex area. Most respondents reported filing a service-connected disability claim, with many receiving high disability ratings. However, experiences with the claims process were mixed, citing difficulties with documentation, understanding requirements, and navigating appeals, particularly for claims involving mental health or trauma-related conditions.
The survey added expanded questions on caregiving and LGBTQIA+ experiences: 26 percent of respondents reported serving as caregivers for adult family members or friends, often without access to respite care. Among LGBTQIA+ respondents, some reported discrimination or harassment during service, pointing to continued needs for culturally responsive and affirming care.
The findings point to the importance of coordinated, trauma-informed, and inclusive systems of care. CalVet officials referenced the role of partnerships with community organizations, County Veterans Service Offices, and statewide initiatives focused on mental health, housing, and benefits navigation.
For the first time, respondents were able to request follow-up assistance from CalVet, allowing the survey to serve both as a research tool and a direct connection to services.
CalVet leaders say the results outline priorities for future policy and program development. As California’s women Veterans population continues to evolve, the survey reinforces the need for systems that align with the diversity, complexity, and lived experiences of those who served. The full report is available on CalVet’s Women Veterans hub.
Author: Rikki Almanza
Rikki is a Web Content Coordinator for the American Legion, Department of California. With a deep-rooted family connection to the military, Rikki is committed to using her skills and knowledge to provide valuable assistance and resources to servicemembers and veterans.
