12 US Cities That Will Pay You to Move There in 2024

Did you know that Tulsa, Oklahoma has attracted nearly 2,900 remote workers since 2018, generating over $307 million in new income for the city?¹

As remote work becomes increasingly common, many smaller cities and towns across the US offer enticing incentives to lure in new residents. From cash grants to free coworking memberships and outdoor recreation perks, these relocation programs aim to revitalize local economies and bring fresh talent to their communities.

If you’re a remote worker looking for a change of scenery and some extra cash, here are 12 places in the U.S. that will pay you to move there in 2024:

1. Topeka, Kansas

Looking to put down roots in the Sunflower State? Topeka’s “Choose Topeka” program is offering up to $15,000 to remote workers who purchase a home in the city or $10,000 to those who opt to rent.

To sweeten the deal, your new employer may kick in up to $15,000 in matching funds if you’re transferring for a job. Just be prepared to live in Topeka for at least a year to cash in.

2. Tulsa, Oklahoma

Tulsa Remote has an impressive package for remote workers: $10,000 cash, spread out over the course of your first year in the city. You’ll also score a free coworking membership to 36 Degrees North and have access to regular community-building events.

The catch? You need to be able to move to Tulsa within 12 months and have full-time remote employment outside of Oklahoma.

3. Northwest Arkansas

If natural beauty is a must-have, consider moving to Northwest Arkansas. The Northwest Arkansas Council will hand over $10,000 to remote workers who relocate to cities like Fayetteville or Bentonville.

Spend it on anything from a down payment on a house to a new mountain bike to hit the local trails. You’ll also get a free membership to a coworking space. Be ready to move within 6 months and have a full-time remote gig.

4. Savannah, Georgia

Georgia’s charming coastal city of Savannah is courting remote tech workers with a $2,000 incentive to cover relocation expenses. To qualify for the cash, you’ll need at least 3 years of experience and be willing to commit to living in Savannah for 2 years minimum. The money is reimbursed for qualified moving costs, and you must either be self-employed or work remotely for a tech company outside the region.

5. Hamilton, Ohio

Recent grads with student loan debt, take note. The city of Hamilton, located in southwestern Ohio, wants to help you pay off those loans faster.

Their Talent Attraction Program Scholarship offers up to $10,000 to STEAM grads who move to certain neighborhoods in Hamilton and find a job in the city. The money is doled out over 30 months and can only be used for student loan repayment, but it’s a sweet perk for those just starting out.

6. Newton, Iowa

If building a home in a tight-knit Midwestern community appeals to you, Newton, Iowa, may be your perfect fit. The city is offering up to $10,000 in forgivable loans to remote workers who construct a new house in Newton. You’ll need to live there for at least 2 years, but with a low cost of living and a quaint downtown, it could be an ideal spot to plant some roots.

7. Bemidji, Minnesota

Want to swap the hustle and bustle for the great outdoors? Greater Bemidji in northern Minnesota has a relocation package worth $2,500 for remote workers.

It includes $1,000 for moving costs, free internet for 6 months and a 1-year membership to the LaunchPad coworking space. You must be a full-time remote employee and move from at least 60 miles away.

8. Natchez, Mississippi

Natchez, the oldest settlement on the Mississippi River, is steeped in history and small-town charm. The Shift South program aims to attract remote workers with an incentive worth up to $6,000.

You’ll get $2,500 for relocation expenses plus $300 monthly for a year. Enjoy a free coworking membership, too. The requirements? Work remotely full-time and be ready to call Natchez home.

9. Montpelier, Vermont

While Vermont’s Remote Worker Grant Program is currently on pause, it’s worth keeping an eye on for the future. The state was offering up to $7,500 to remote workers who relocated there, spread out over 2 years.

The funds could be used for moving costs, computer equipment, internet access, and more. If the program reopens, it could be a great opportunity to experience the beauty of New England.

10. Morgantown, West Virginia

Remote workers who move to Morgantown can take advantage of West Virginia’s Ascend WV program. You’ll pocket $12,000 over the course of a year, with the first $10,000 paid out in monthly installments.

The remaining $2,000 can be used for outdoor recreation, from ski resort passes to whitewater rafting trips. You’ll need to be a full-time remote worker and live in Morgantown for at least 2 years.

11. Noblesville, Indiana

Just north of Indianapolis, the suburban city of Noblesville has its own relocation incentive. Remote workers can get $5,000 to put towards moving expenses, payable upfront.

You can also combine the cash with other local perks and grants. To be eligible, you’ll need to have full-time remote employment and be able to relocate within 6 months.

12. Rochester, New York

Rochester boasts one of the most generous relocation packages of any city. Remote workers moving to the Rochester area can receive up to $19,000 through the Greater ROC Remote program.

That includes $10,000 for relocation costs and up to $9,000 in additional homebuyer grants. You must be a full-time remote worker who can move within 6 months of being accepted.

So there you have it – a dozen places rolling out the red carpet (and the welcome cash) for remote workers. Whether you’re looking to escape the grind of the big city, find a more affordable cost of living, or just shake things up with a change of scenery, these cities and states are worth a closer look.

Source:

1. CNN