As the cost of living rises across the country, some towns, cities and even states are offering large financial incentives of up to $50,000 to attract new residents to live there.
It may seem too good to be true, but there are a number of relocation deals across the country aimed at enticing newcomers to live.
Compensations range from cold hard cash to up to five-figure tax breaks, which could go some way to easing the overall cost of moving to a new location.
Columbus, Georgia – $5,000
For those looking for a southern twist in a growing metro, look no further than Columbus, Georgia’s second most populous city, which is accepting relocation applications.
Located in the western part of the state near Alabama, Columbus offers a low cost of living and a modern, centrally located environment, plus $5,000 cash back and several other benefits for new residents.
Columbus offers a low cost of living and a modern downtown environment, plus $5,000 cash back and several other benefits for new residents.
These include six months of co-working space, a coffee date with the mayor, and a two-night stay before your move, all paid for in full by the city.
The opportunity, organizers say, is perfect for those who have new businesses or work remotely.
Qualified candidates must earn at least $75,000 annually and make Muscogee County their primary residence.
Benefits include $5,000 toward relocation, six months of membership in a co-working space, and an annual community outing. Applications are closed for 2024 but will reopen in January 2025.
For those looking for a Southern touch in a growing metro, look no further than Columbus, Georgia’s second most populous city after Atlanta (pictured, currently accepting applications).
When you’re not working, rafting along the Chattahoochee River is a popular pastime, or perhaps visit one of the city’s most popular restaurants, museums, and parks.
The city, a major metropolitan area that exudes unmistakable hometown heart, also offers a wealth of affordable housing options.
Additionally, the typical value of a two-bedroom home is around $120,000, less than half the U.S. average.
Lincoln County, Kansas – $4,500
Lincoln County, in the middle of the Kansas countryside, has a population of less than 3,000 in an area about 130 miles from Wichita.
The county is offering $4,500 cash to new residents.
Additional benefits include a $500 internet credit, gym membership, and a monthly basket of farm-fresh eggs.
Remote workers who earn at least $50,000 a year and agree to live in Lincoln County for at least a year may also qualify for free land and an additional $5,000 if their spouse finds local employment.
This program, managed by Make My Move and Innovation Centerhas sparked interest from 23 other counties.
“Money is just the bait,” Kelly Gourley, executive director of the Lincoln County Economic Development Foundation, said in a statement. ‘It won’t make someone like where they live; It’s what comes after that makes someone feel good about the move.’
Lincoln County, in the middle of the Kansas countryside, has a population of less than 3,000 in an area about 130 miles from Wichita. County offers $4,500 cash to newcomers
Mississippi County, Arkansas – $50,000
Mississippi County, Arkansas, about two and a half hours from Little Rock, is offering up to $50,000 to new and existing residents to build or renovate homes.
To earn quality, participants must work for companies like US Steel or Big River Steel and commit to living in the county for at least four years.
Since launching in 2022, the county has attracted 80 new buyers, many of whom are first-time homeowners.
He Work here, live here The initiative is a collaboration between local industries, community groups and financial institutions.
“Once we start to have a population increase (and there’s no reason we shouldn’t with all the jobs we’ve created), the quality of life will follow,” said Randy Scott, president of Farmers Bank and Trust. Business Insider. “You’ll get the restaurants, you’ll get the retail stores, you’ll get the amenities.”
Newton, Iowa: $10,000
Newton, Iowa, is just 30 minutes from Des Moines and offers $10,000 to homebuyers who purchase properties worth at least $240,000.
The money is released after City of Newton building inspectors issue a certificate of occupancy.
There are no length of residency requirements and new residents receive a welcome package valued at $2,500.
‘There are no ‘residence period’ requirements; That is, while you must take title to the home, you are not required to remain in it for a specific period of time,” said city development specialist Craig Armstrong.
Newton, Iowa, is just 30 minutes from Des Moines and offers $10,000 to homebuyers who purchase properties worth at least $240,000.
The Shoals, Alabama – $10,000
The Shoals in northern Alabama, which encompass Florence, Muscle Shoals, Sheffield and Tuscumbia, offer $10,000 to remote workers who move there.
Funds are distributed in installments to assist with moving costs and encourage long-term residence.
The first $2,500 is supposed to help with moving costs. Another $2,500 is given after six months and the final $5,000 is given after one year.
Eligible applicants must earn at least $52,000 a year and commit to moving within six months. Applications for Remote shoals will reopen in September 2024.
Tulsa, Oklahoma: $10,000
The Tulsa Remote program offers $10,000 to remote workers moving to Oklahoma.
Program requirements include currently having a full-time remote job and living outside of Oklahoma for a full year before applying.
If selected, participants will receive their money after a lease has been signed or a qualifying home has been purchased and approved. In addition to the grant, participants receive a 36-month membership to a coworking space.
The program also offers a $500 travel reimbursement and gives those planning to move a $150 Airbnb credit to get familiar with the city before moving.
In Oklahoma, the median home value is $195,594.
The Tulsa Remote program offers $10,000 to remote workers moving to Oklahoma. Pictured Tulsa, Oklahoma
West Virginia: $20,000
The Ascend West Virginia program offers $12,000 to remote workers moving to the Mountain State.
Applicants must be 18 years or older and already have a full-time remote job to qualify for the program.
If selected, participants will receive $10,000 during their first year paid in monthly installments. They will then receive $2,000 after completing their second year at West Virginia.
Cities like Morgantown and Greenbrier Valley offer additional incentives that bring the total to $20,000.
According to Zillow, the median home value in West Virginia is $154,371.
The Ascend West Virginia program offers $12,000 to remote workers moving to the Mountain State. Morgantown, above, offers additional incentives, bringing the total to $20,000
According to Zillow, the median home value in West Virginia is $154,371.
Outdoor activity perks like rafting, golf, rock climbing, horseback riding, and even skiing round out the rest of the package, offered in the form of free passes provided upon relocation.
Those ‘up’ can choose from one of several communities, ranging from the northern college town of Morgantown, near WVU, to Greenbrier Valley in the southeast corner of the state.
The latter is located in the state’s idyllic mountains, a draw for anyone who appreciates the majesty of Mother Nature.
The public-private program is offered by Ascend West Virginia and offers an upfront cash incentive of $10,000 and an additional $2,000 if you stay two years. Those ‘up’ can choose from one of five communities in the Misty Mountain State
“You couldn’t ask for more small-town charm with amazing music and vibrancy and an incredible recreation scene,” said Brad D. Smith, founder of the program and current president of Marshall University.
Former CEO of software company Intuit, he founded the program three years ago, leaving behind a successful career in Silicon Valley.
With a 96.5 percent retention rate, it hasn’t turned back yet.
Other participating communities include the Eastern Panhandle, Elkins, on the western edge of the Monongahela National Forest, and New River Gore, the nation’s newest national park.