Veterans in Utah: Services, Gaps, and Opportunities Troy Allan, Ed.D., MFA, USU Extension Professional Practice Assistant Professor
Introduction Utah’s veteran population reflects both a proud legacy of service and an urgent call for targeted support. With 129,783 veterans residing in the state—ranking 49th nationally for veteran population density—nearly half are over the age of 65, and many live in rural areas where poverty, isolation, and limited access to care are common (Figure 1 and Table 1; U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs [hereafter, “VA”], 2023; Utah Commission on Aging, n.d.). While the overall veteran population in Utah is projected to continue to decline over the next decade (VA, n.d.), the need for agingrelated services continues to rise as older veterans face medically complex conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, and heart disease (VA Office of Rural Health, 2023b). The next generation of veterans will bring additional needs, including long-term care and support for combat-related injuries and chronic mental health concerns.
UTAH’S VETERAN POPULATION BY AGE
Unfortunately, suicide continues as a leading cause of death among veterans. Nationally, in 2022, it was the second-leading cause of death among veterans under age 45 (VA, 2024). These statistics highlight the ongoing mental health crisis within the veteran population and the pressing need for accessible, community-based solutions, particularly in rural areas where care gaps are greatest. Findings from national and regional samples indicate that geographic isolation and access barriers underlie heightened mental health and suicide risks among rural veterans (Kritee Gujral et al., 2022).
75+ 26%
18-34 11%
35-54 29% 65-74 18%
This fact sheet, the first in a series, provides an overview of veteran services in Utah, identifying existing resources, areas of unmet need, and opportunities for strategic investment. It is intended for veterans, policymakers, community leaders, and organizations committed to
55-64 16%
Figure 1. Utah’s Veteran Population by Age
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Data source: U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (2025, March 26)