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FRANKLIN, TENN. -- Livability.com has ranked Colorado Springs number two in the nation for military veterans and their families to call home.

With Veterans Day just three days away, Livability ranked the top 10 places for veterans to either retire or start a second career.

The rankings  are based on quality of life attributes that appeal to veterans, such as modern climate, low cost of living, unemployment rate and outdoor recreational opportunities. Officials said they also gave additional consideration to places with military institutions and VA hospitals.

“We know it’s important for veterans and their families to have access to quality medical care and social services,” John Hood, Livability.com spokesman, said in a statement, “so we chose cities with excellent health-care systems and VA hospitals. The cities on this list also tend to be more diverse, have excellent school systems and higher education options and greater opportunities for post-military employment.”

Colorado Springs has five military installations, which Hood said offers veterans a solid social and professional network. He also pointed out the defense industry plays a major role in the Colorado Springs economy, employing thousands of military veterans. Some of the city’s largest employers develop high-tech weapons, aircraft, spacecraft and electronic equipment.

In addition to the strong military presence, the city also fits the indicators listed above in terms of quality of life, cultural amenities and outdoor recreation.

Colorado Springs was beaten out only by Fayetteville, N.C.

Livability has ranked Colorado Springs before. Garden of the Gods is ranked #4 on the Great Hiking Trails list and received the same ranking in the Manliest cities list. The city is also ranked #2 for pets

Here is the complete top 10 list for best veteran places:

1)  Fayetteville, N.C.
2)  Colorado Springs, Colo.
3)  San Angelo, Texas
4)  Carlisle, Pa.
5)  Madison, Wis.
6)  Topeka, Kan.
7)  Syracuse, N.Y.
8)  Kenner, La.
9)  Tucson, Ariz.
10)  Cheyenne, Wyo.

“One thing all 10 cities have in common is their inclusive nature and a proven history of community support for military families,” Hood said.