ATLANTA, November 04, 2025–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Hire Heroes USA, a national nonprofit organization that empowers U.S. military members, veterans and military spouses to succeed in the civilian workforce, today released its “Top Jobs for Veterans 2025” report. The report highlights the top industries, jobs and cities where veterans and military spouses are finding employment in the first nine months of 2025.
Defense contracting (13.8%) is the leading industry for veteran hires, followed by government and public administration (10.5%). Information technology (7.1%), health care and social services (6.6%), and retail trade (5.4%) round out the top five industries. Notably, retail trade and manufacturing saw an increase from the previous year.
In 2025, veterans and military spouses were most frequently hired for job functions including installation, maintenance and repair (6.1%); safety, security and law enforcement (5.9%); and training, instruction and teaching (4.8%). Skilled labor and trades also entered the top 10 job functions for the first time.
The top U.S. market where veterans and military spouses are finding employment in 2025 is Virginia Beach, Virginia, moving up from the fourth position in last year’s ranking. Markets rounding out the top five are San Diego, California; Colorado Springs, Colorado; San Antonio, Texas; and Atlanta, Georgia.
“Veterans and military spouses bring more than experience — they bring resilience, adaptability, and a proven ability to lead through change,” said Ross Dickman, CEO of Hire Heroes USA. “This year’s report shows they’re not just finding jobs, but excelling in industries that drive our economy forward. Their success demonstrates the extraordinary value of military talent in today’s workforce and the critical importance of helping them connect their skills to meaningful civilian careers.”
In the first nine months of 2025, Hire Heroes USA helped nearly 9,613 veterans and military spouses successfully secure new jobs, which generated an estimated economic return of more than $693 million. On average, Hire Heroes USA works with a candidate for 12 to 16 weeks before they secure employment. Hire Heroes USA clients are achieving $72,172 in starting salary, well above the national average.
Since its founding in 2005, Hire Heroes USA has offered free, personalized one-on-one coaching, resume assistance, interview preparation, and mentoring. These services have helped more than 110,000 veterans and military spouses successfully navigate the transition into their post-military careers.