New Data Shines Light on Health of Veterans

Data on Health of Veterans Focuses on Coachella Valley Veterans

PALM DESERT — Veterans have made lasting sacrifices in service to our country, and supporting their health and well-being remains an important priority in communities across the nation. Now, HARC provides Coachella Valley statistics from the 2025 Coachella Valley Community Health Survey to better understand the local veteran population and some of the health challenges they face.

Every three years, HARC, Inc. (Health Assessment and Research for Communities) conducts the Coachella Valley Community Health Survey, a population health survey of the Coachella Valley region in Riverside County.

The most recent survey, conducted in 2025, found that approximately 6% of Coachella Valley adults—an estimated 19,790 local adults—have served on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces.

Coachella Valley Veteran Demographics

Veterans in the Coachella Valley represent a diverse and valuable part of the local population. Among local veterans, 9% are female and 23% identify as lesbian, gay, or bisexual. The veteran population also reflects an older age distribution, with 8% in their 20s and 30s, 25% in their 40s and 50s, 52% in their 60s and 70s, and 14% age 80 or older.

Educational attainment among local veterans is also varied, with 23% holding a high school diploma or GED, 35% having completed some college, 23% earning a college degree, and 19% holding a graduate degree.

Veteran Mental Health

While many veterans transition successfully to civilian life, some continue to experience mental health challenges related to service experiences and life stressors. Of the nearly 20,000 Coachella Valley veterans, 19% have been diagnosed with depression, 18% have been diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and 15% have been diagnosed with an anxiety disorder.

These findings highlight the importance of ensuring veterans have access to quality mental health care, supportive services, and community resources that promote healing and long-term wellness. Early support and treatment can make a meaningful difference in quality of life for veterans and their families.

To view HARC’s new infographic regarding veterans’ health in the Coachella Valley, please visit: https://harcdata.org/veterans-in-cv-2025/

To see more statistics regarding health information in the Coachella Valley, please see the latest 2025 Executive Report at: www.HARCdata.org/cvhealth2025

About HARC, Inc.
HARC is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to improving health, wellness, and quality of life in the Coachella Valley through data-driven research and evaluation. Learn more at www.HARCdata.org.