Several US cities and states offer real financial incentives to attract new residents. These places that will pay you to move there provide anywhere from $1,000 to $20,000 in cash or student loan assistance. Tulsa, Oklahoma is the most famous, offering remote workers $10,000 cash plus a coworking space through its “Tulsa Remote” program. In 2026, similar programs in West Virginia and Vermont continue to attract talent looking for a lower cost of living and a fresh start.
These programs exist because rural towns and mid-sized cities are trying to reverse population decline and attract working-age residents – especially remote workers who bring income to the local economy without competing for local jobs.
US Places That Pay You to Move
| Location | Incentive | Requirements | Program Name |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tulsa, OK | $10,000 cash + coworking desk | Remote worker, move to Tulsa, 1-year commitment | Tulsa Remote |
| Northwest Arkansas | $10,000 cash or $5,000 + bike | Remote worker, move within 12 months | Life Works Here |
| Topeka, KS | Up to $15,000 | Work remotely or get local job | Choose Topeka |
| Shoals, AL | Up to $10,000 | Remote worker, 1-year commitment | Remote Shoals |
| West Virginia | Up to $12,000 in cash + outdoor gear | Remote worker, move to WV | Ascend WV |
| Vermont | Up to $7,500 | Work remotely, relocate to Vermont | Vermont Remote Worker Grant |
| Hamilton, OH | $5,000 | Purchase a home in Hamilton | Hamilton Talent Attraction Program |
| Morgantown, WV | Student loan repayment + cash | Recent grad or remote worker | Downtown Morgantown Program |
International Places That Pay You to Move
| Country/Location | Incentive | Requirements | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Calabria, Italy | Up to €30,000 | Move to a small town under 2,000 people, stay 3 years | Several Italian villages offer this |
| Portugal | NHR tax regime (flat 20% tax) | Become a tax resident | Attractive for remote workers/retirees |
| Barbados | 12-month Welcome Stamp visa | Remote work income, $50K+ annual earnings | Not cash – just the right to stay |
| Estonia | Digital Nomad Visa | Remote work, no income minimum | Live and work legally in EU |
| Bermuda | Work from Bermuda certificate | Remote worker, application fee only | Beautiful location, no income tax |
Remote Worker Relocation Programs
| Program | Location | Cash Offered | Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tulsa Remote | Tulsa, OK | $10,000 | Most established US program |
| MakeMyMove | Various US cities | $5,000-$16,000 | Aggregator for multiple cities |
| Ascend WV | West Virginia | $12,000 | Outdoor enthusiasts |
| Choose Topeka | Topeka, KS | Largest cash offer in US |
Conditions and Catches to Watch For
- Most programs require you to stay for 1-2 years – leave early and you may have to repay some or all of the incentive.
- Some programs pay in installments (e.g., $5,000 upfront, $5,000 after 12 months) rather than a lump sum.
- Tax implications: cash incentives may be treated as taxable income – check with a tax advisor.
- Cost of living change: verify that your remote salary will cover living costs in the new location.
How to Apply
- Check MakeMyMove.com – it aggregates the most current programs across the US in one place.
- Apply directly to specific city programs via their official websites (listed above).
- Prepare documentation: proof of remote employment, ID, and sometimes a short essay or interview.
- Applications are competitive – programs like Tulsa Remote receive far more applicants than spots available.
Getting paid to move somewhere is a real opportunity – not a gimmick. For remote workers with location flexibility, these programs can provide a financial boost, lower living costs, and a genuine fresh start. Research the destination thoroughly before applying – the money is only worth it if you actually want to live there.
