Nearly 3,000 women veterans across all 58 California counties have spoken — and their voices highlight key themes and areas of opportunity. The California Department of Veterans Affairs (CalVet) recently released findings from its 2025 Women Veterans Survey, one of the largest efforts of its kind in the state’s history.

“We thank all California women veterans who shared their experiences and insights with us. We hear you and honor your voices,” said CalVet Secretary Lindsey Sin. “We also appreciate our community partners who do such vital work serving women veterans across the state.”

About The Survey

First statewide survey of California women veterans in over a decade.

Nearly 3,000 respondents from every county — younger and more diverse than in previous surveys.

Expanded focus areas: Caregiving and LGBTQIA+ needs.

Results can inform state and local efforts to better serve California’s 150,000 women veterans.

For the first time, the survey included an option for respondents to request post-survey follow-up from CalVet, helping close the gap between research and action. Reinforcing the survey as not only a data collection tool, but a potential access point for benefits, support, and continued communication.

Key Findings

Greater awareness and utilization of high impact services: More women veterans are turning to VA Healthcare and County Veterans Service Offices to file claims.

Ongoing themes: Respondents cited challenges related to Military Sexual Trauma, housing stability, service-related disability claims, and mental and behavioral health.

Emerging priorities: Increased focus on LGBTQIA+- experiences and caregiving responsibilities than in past surveys.

“From healthcare to housing, and from caregiving to career advancement, these results tell us where and how California can support women who served,” said Mayumi Kimura, Deputy Secretary for Women Veterans.

Why It Matters

Women now represent 11 percent of California’s veteran population. The 2025 survey results provide critical insights to help federal, state, and local government and community partners deliver more inclusive and effective support.

The full report is available at calvet.ca.gov/womenvets.

The 2025 survey was made possible through funding from the Women’s Recovery Response Grant, awarded to the VetFund Foundation by the California Commission on the Status of Women and Girls. CalVet and the California Research Bureau partnered with the VetFund Foundation to assist with the survey development. The survey is reflective of the long-standing collaboration between these organizations aimed at providing updated information about how California women veterans are navigating their post-military lives.

The California Department of Veterans Affairs (CalVet) serves and honors all California veterans by connecting them and their families with earned benefits through education, advocacy, and direct services. For more information, contact CalVet at 800-952-5626 or visit calvet.ca.gov.