Veterans Stand Down event at Santa Maria Fairgrounds, Calif., Oct. 25, 2025. (Photo: U.S. Space Force Airman 1st Class Ian Hawkes)
A new RAND report offers an updated look at the changing makeup of America’s Veteran population and the challenges different groups are experiencing. The study, A Summary of Veteran-Related Statistics – Second Edition, analyzes national datasets to compare Veterans who served before the September 11 Attacks with those who have served since.
The report shows that Veterans now make up a smaller share of the U.S. adult population. In 2023, Veterans accounted for 6.1 percent of adults, down from 11.7 percent in 2011. The divide between pre 9/11 and Post 9/11 Veterans is widening due to age. Those who served before the attacks have an average age of 70, while Post 9/11 Veterans average 41.6 and make up just over 28 percent of the Veteran community. This younger group is more racially diverse and more likely to hold a bachelor’s degree, though the overall educational profile of Veterans remains close to that of non-Veterans.
Veterans remain heavily concentrated in large southern and western states. Texas, Florida, and California continue to have the largest Veteran populations. Post 9/11 Veterans are also more likely to live near regions with strong military infrastructure and Veteran services.
Mental health findings show clear differences by age and service era. Overall, Veterans reported lower rates of serious psychological distress and suicidal ideation than non-Veterans, but younger Veterans bucked the trend. More than 20 percent of Veterans ages 18 to 34 reported serious distress, and 10 percent reported suicidal thoughts. Post 9/11 Veterans showed substantially higher levels of distress, suicidal ideation, and suicide planning than those who served only before 9/11. Women, bisexual Veterans, and multiracial Veterans reported the highest levels of distress and suicide related behaviors. Alcohol and substance use disorders were also more common among younger Veterans and among Hispanic and Black Veterans, but they were more likely to receive treatment.
Labor market results were somewhat more positive. Veterans and non-Veterans had similar labor force participation rates in 2024, but Veterans had a slightly lower unemployment rate. Veterans were more likely to work in public administration, manufacturing, transportation, and utilities, and nearly twice as likely to hold public sector jobs. They were also more likely to be in higher income brackets, with nearly 30 percent earning $150,000 or more. College enrollment remains lower among Veterans, but those who are enrolled are more likely to be working while attending school.
The report points to growing differences between older and younger Veterans, with the most recent generation experiencing higher levels of mental health and substance use concerns, even as employment outcomes remain relatively strong.
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.
