10 States and Cities in the U.S. that Pay You to Move to Them

It sounds too good to be true, right? Trust me (and the study on which the list is based), it’s the real deal. Many states and cities across the U.S. are offering cash incentives, grants, and other cool perks to encourage remote workers and families to move there. I’m talking about board seats at local nonprofits, family passes to arts events, club memberships, loan repayment assistance, or even support for your kids’ education. 

So, why would they do this? Simple—states and cities are fighting to attract new residents, especially those who’ll settle down as homeowners and stimulate the local economy. Some places even target professionals like nurses, teachers, and emergency responders with special offers.

But before you pack up and move, keep in mind that there are some eligibility requirements and a competitive application process. Don’t let that scare you—it’s definitely doable! If you follow the rules and put in the effort, you might just be one of the lucky ones who gets paid to move to one of these states or cities.

State: West Virginia

Tired of staring at the same four walls while working remotely? West Virginia’s calling with fresh mountain air and a $12,000 bonus through the Ascend WV program. You can choose from five great communities like Morgantown’s college-town charm or the adventure-packed New River Gorge. There’s even a free year of outdoor fun—golf, ziplining, and gear rentals—worth $2,500, not to mention support for small business owners.

Imagine working from the nation’s newest national park, cash in hand, and enjoying vibrant co-working spaces. Ready to say yes to Almost Heaven?

State: Vermont

Vermont is offering up to $7,500 through its ThinkVermont Worker Relocation Incentive to help you build a new life in a state where work-life balance actually exists. With a booming tech industry, a vibrant food scene, and clean energy opportunities, there’s plenty of room to grow your career. Plus, regional partners are ready to connect you with employers, realtors, and your new community.

To qualify, you’ll need to be a full-time resident and work on-site or remotely. Just know the funding is competitive, so be patient with your application. 

State: Alaska

Good news if you’ve ever thought about making Alaska home because you could get up to $1,600 a year through the Permanent Fund Dividend. It’s simple—live there for a full year, and you’re eligible. You can apply online or through mail each year from January to March.

This isn’t just a cool perk. The PFD helps offset the high cost of living and harsh winters by sharing a portion of Alaska’s oil and gas revenue directly with its residents. 

State: Kansas

Kansas has 95 Rural Opportunity Zones offering huge perks for relocating. If you have student loans and a degree, you can get up to $15,000 in loan repayment assistance over five years. Plus, you can enjoy a 100% income tax credit for five years after you move.

The Sunflower State wants you to experience its peaceful, rural lifestyle, and they’re making it easier with these bonuses. With $380,000 already awarded to counties for local marketing, you’ll have plenty of support while enjoying the natural beauty and community life.

State: Indiana 

Here’s good news if you’re considering moving to Indiana: 66 cities and counties are offering cash incentives plus perks like co-working space memberships, tickets to local events, and even personal concierge services to help with the move.

Whether you want small towns or big cities, Indiana has a spot for you. In Noblesville, you can snag $5,000 in cash, while Perry County offers $7,000. Just stay a year to claim the perks—sounds like a win if you’re up for exploring Indiana’s charm! 

State: Kentucky 

Brain drain is when educated or skilled workers leave home for cities with more opportunities, and Kentucky is worried this will run the state dry. But the Bluegrass State has a solution—get paid to move to places like Mayfield, Frankfort, and Eastern Kentucky! Frankfort offers $6,500 in cash plus fun perks like meeting the mayor and exploring local distilleries.

Mayfield is sweetening the deal with $5,000, childcare discounts, and even a family pass to arts events. Eastern Kentucky throws in $5,000, a welcome package, and a $2,500 bonus for remote workers who bring their spouse into local education or healthcare jobs. Sounds like a win, right? 

City: Greater Rochester, New York

Rochester is one of the most neighborly places in America, with over 100 parks, vibrant small businesses, and a nationally recognized school system. The Greater Rochester program offers up to $9,000 in homeowner grants, plus support to help you settle in and connect professionally.

To apply, you need to be at least 18, live 300 miles away, and relocate within six months. It’s not just for individuals—businesses can also explore moving to Rochester. If you think this isn’t legit, check these out: 32 remote workers have already made the move, bringing 71 jobs with them!

City: Tulsa, Oklahoma

Tulsa Remote has already brought over 3,000 remote workers to the city since 2018, with a huge $306.7 million economic impact. Tulsa offers a rich cultural history, delicious food, live music, and stunning outdoor spaces, making it a great place to live and work.

The program gives you a $10,000 grant if you’re a full-time remote worker living outside Oklahoma for at least a year. You’ll also get a 36-month free membership at a local co-working space. I see no reason you’ll pass on this chance. 

City: Topeka, Kansas

Seriously, why isn’t everyone talking about this? The Choose Topeka program is offering one of the most generous relocation packages out there, with up to $15,000 available for new residents. If you rent in Shawnee County, you can get up to $10,000, and if you buy a home, that jumps to $15,000!

All you need is a job offer from a participating employer, the right to work in the U.S., and a rental or home purchase in the area. Once you’re in, the benefits keep rolling.

City: The Shoals, Alabama

The rumors are true! The Shoals area in Northwest Alabama is offering up to $10,000 to remote workers who are willing to relocate. You’ll get 25% upfront, another 25% after six months, and the rest after your first year in the community.

To qualify, you just need to make at least $52,000 a year, be employed remotely or as a contractor, and relocate within six months. Imagine living in Florence, Muscle Shoals, Sheffield, or Tuscumbia with a nice cash boost to help you settle in!

Source: U.S. News

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