Looking for a change of scenery?
Did you know there are a number of cities across the country that will pay you money to move there?
That’s right. Many local and state governments are looking to cash in on recent trends around remote work by offering paid incentives to anyone willing to relocate.
Remote workers tend to be well-paid professionals like software developers or speech pathologists. States such as Vermont and Maine view remote workers as a great opportunity to bolster their dwindling professional populations.
And the financial incentives being offered are no joke.
Tulsa, Oklahoma is offering a $10,000 relocation award. Maine also offers up to $10,000 in relocation expenses.
As major cities continue to get more and more expensive, cities like Tulsa see an opportunity to entice workers away from the coasts and into the midwest.
Let’s break down all the different incentives being offered.
1. Maine
If you graduated from any college or university in the US from 2015 on, then Maine has moving opportunities. They offer a tax credit depending on graduation year and degree type that saves big on your student loans.
Moving to Maine
A booming restaurant scene and breath-taking locations like Acadia National Park make Maine an option for those looking for a new locale. Also, not the worst place to be if you’re a lobster lover.
2. Vermont
In an effort to bring in younger residents to the state, Vermont is offering financial incentives that focus on remote workers. The Remote Worker Grant offers up to $7,500 in relocation expenses. If you have remote working capabilities and want a change of scenery, Vermont is waiting for you.
Moving to Vermont
The natural setting of Vermont appeals to anyone looking to escape an urban backdrop. Vermont is also a hub for craft beer, artisanal cheese, and farmer’s markets. But don’t be fooled by the quaint countryside, Vermont boasts a thriving nightlife of clubs and concert halls.
3. Alaska
Can you get paid to live in Alaska?
Yes! Alaska will pay you approximately $1,600 to live there!
Simply put, Alaska needs people. So much so that they offer numerous grants and tax incentives to make you an Alaskan. The Permanent Fund Dividend is a perfect example. Residents who remain in the state for a dividend year receive $1,600.
Moving to Alaska
There are more perks to becoming an Alaskan. There is no state tax, which feels like a warm welcome compared to the high bracket states like California. The state is also a center for some of the world’s best seafood, glorious northern lights, and pretty much any outdoor activity.
4. Newton, Iowa
The city of Newton goes to extra lengths to get residents to settle into their community long-term. They offer up to $10,000 cash to new homebuyers and throw in a welcome package of over $3,000.
The incentive also applies to new home construction as well giving anyone looking to plant down roots in the opportunity to build a dream home. The median cost of a home in Newton is just over $105,000, making it attractively affordable over most coastal cities.
Moving to Newton, Iowa
This peaceful community offers a great place to raise a family with a lot of kid-friendly things to do. Attractions like the Iowa Speedway, museums, and a botanical garden in the heart of farm country may be appealing to those ready to flee the congested burbs or city.
5. Tulsa, Oklahoma
Like Vermont, the city of Tulsa is looking to inject new life into their state with remote worker incentives. They offer a $10,000 relocation award. The payment is made over the course of a year and there are other eligibility requirements.
Moving to Tulsa, Oklahoma
Why move to Tulsa? Most residents will boast about the low cost of living. Housing is inexpensive. The oil-rich state ensures a stable and robust economy, which keeps expenses like shopping and dining out low.
6. Chattanooga, Tennessee
Are you a computer programmer? Then Chattanooga wants you. The city is looking to bolster its tech population. They already boast a citywide gigabyte network to support a thriving tech sector.
They just need to attract more tech professionals. Their Geek Move program (that’s really what it’s called) offers computer developers $1,250 in relocation expenses and a $10,000 forgivable mortgage.
Moving to Chattanooga, Tennessee
The draw of big city life is losing its luster with young people. Affordable housing and livability scores now make new locales attractive. Chattanooga is listed as one of the top 20 cities for young homebuyers.
If you love the great outdoors, then there is a lot to love in Tennessee. The Tennessee River and mountains are nearby for hiking, rock climbing, and kayaking. Downtown Chattanooga also offers lots of things to do, including a thriving arts scene, restaurants and shopping, and family-friendly attractions like the Tennessee Aquarium and the River Pier.
Check out our Chattanooga relocation guide.
7. Hamilton, Ohio
Hamilton, Ohio is smart to recognize that student loans are undercutting growth for college graduates. That’s why they offer resident incentives of up to $10,000 to college grads to relocate.
The money is paid out incrementally over the year. The goal is to help you pay down those debts while discovering a great and affordable place to live. But there are eligibility requirements. Among several qualifications, those applying for the Talent Attraction program must have graduated within the past seven years from a STEAM program (one focused on science, technology, engineering, the arts, or mathematics).
Moving to Hamilton, Ohio
Lots of family-friendly activities along with affordability make Hamilton a great place to work and play. The low cost of living, especially with the relocation incentives, makes buying a new home a real possibility. The quaint city is also known for many festivals and recreational events.
8. Lincoln, Kansas
Looking to build your dream home? You may want to lay your foundation in Lincoln. The city is offering free land for new homebuilders. Lots ranging in size from 12,000 to 35,000 square feet are offered for free to anyone willing to establish roots in their town.
There are set guidelines and time restrictions for new building projects under the program, but they are well worth the chance to take that dream home from blueprints to construction.
Moving to Lincoln, Kansas
Quality of life and low costs are making Lincoln an appealing place to start a family. Good schools, little crime and ample outdoors are a breath of fresh air for recent college grads and new families. Say goodbye to big city life.
International Locations That Pay for Your Move
The incentive to attract residents is not limited to the US. Many countries around the world are using the strategy to bring in a wave of new people.
If you decide to take on either of these opportunities you’ll need to get your things there safely. Pick from our list of the best international moving companies out there to make that happen.
Chile
Chile is a country looking to build its tech market. They have launched Start-Up Chile to amplify the opportunities for tech workers. If you are a tech entrepreneur, the program offers you $80,000 equity-free, in addition to work visas, training and office space.
Moving to Chile
Chile continues to be one of the safest and most economically stable countries in South America. A low cost of living and a diverse geography are two of the attractions for expats. You have your pick of snowy mountains for skiing or sandy beaches on the coastline. Think California without the high cost of living.
Albinen, Switzerland
This picturesque Swiss village needs more people. That’s why they decided to pay $25,00 to every adult and $10,000 to every child in the town. The only rule is that you must be 45 years or younger and be willing to reside in the town for 10 years.
Moving to Albinen, Switzerland
The beautiful Swiss mountains are the backdrop to your daily life. Keep in mind the village is tiny, so life has a leisurely pace. For some that’s paradise.
