Which States Will Pay You To Move There?

Looking to get paid to move? Several states are offering cash incentives, tax breaks, and other perks to attract new residents. These programs aim to boost local economies and fill jobs while giving remote workers and homebuyers a financial reason to relocate.

Depending on where you move, you could receive up to $12,000 in cash, home-buying assistance, or even free outdoor adventure packages. Whether you’re after a scenic riverside retreat in Alabama, a tax-free paycheck in Alaska, or a cash bonus in Kansas, there’s a relocation incentive that might work for you.

Here’s a look at 10 states that will pay you to move there and how much you can get.

Alabama

The Shoals region in northern Alabama is offering remote workers up to $10,000 to relocate through its Remote Shoals Program. Located along the Tennessee River, this scenic area is looking to attract professionals who work for companies based outside the region.

Remote Shoals Program Details

To qualify, applicants must:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Earn $52,000 or more per year
• Work remotely for an employer outside Colbert and Lauderdale counties

The $10,000 incentive is paid in stages:

• $2,500 upfront to help with moving expenses
• $2,500 after six months
• $5,000 after one year of residency

Why Move to The Shoals?

Beyond the financial incentive, The Shoals offers an affordable cost of living, scenic riverfront views, and a strong sense of community.

• Music history: Home to the legendary Muscle Shoals Sound Studio, the area has a deep-rooted musical heritage and an active live music scene.
• Low cost of living: Housing and everyday expenses are more affordable than in many larger cities.
• Outdoor recreation: With the Tennessee River nearby, residents can enjoy fishing, boating, and hiking in numerous parks and trails.
• Community and education: The University of North Alabama brings educational and cultural opportunities, while local businesses thrive with strong community support.

Alaska

Alaska pays residents an annual cash dividend just for living in the state. The Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD), one of the longest-running incentive programs in the U.S., provides payments based on state oil revenue, averaging around $1,600 per year.

Permanent Fund Dividend Details

To qualify, applicants must:

• Reside in Alaska for a full calendar year before applying
• Maintain residency and live in the state for the entire year they wish to claim the payment

The amount varies yearly based on state revenue, but residents receive a direct deposit or check each fall.

Why Move to Alaska

Beyond the financial incentive, Alaska offers a unique lifestyle with natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and financial perks.

• Breathtaking landscapes: From the Northern Lights to Denali National Park, Alaska provides stunning scenery and access to vast wilderness.
• Outdoor recreation: Residents enjoy world-class fishing, hunting, hiking, skiing, and kayaking in one of the most rugged and beautiful places in the world.
• Financial benefits: With no state income or sales tax, Alaskans keep more of their earnings. The PFD adds an extra yearly cash bonus.
• Rich culture: Alaska’s diverse communities celebrate their heritage through festivals, music, and local traditions.

Arkansas

Northwest Arkansas is offering remote workers a financial boost through its Life Works Here incentive program. This fast-growing region, home to major corporations and a thriving startup scene, provides a generous relocation package to attract new talent.

Life Works Here Program Details

To qualify, applicants must:

• Be at least 24 years old
• Have at least two years of work experience
• Be employed full-time
• Live outside Arkansas at the time of application
• Be a U.S. citizen
• Relocate within six months of acceptance

The program offers:

• A $10,000 cash incentive (available in cryptocurrency)
• A mountain or road bike to explore the region’s extensive trails

Why Move to Northwest Arkansas?

Beyond the financial incentive, Northwest Arkansas offers a booming economy, affordable living, and access to nature.

• Strong job market: Home to Walmart’s headquarters, the region has a growing tech and healthcare industry, along with a vibrant startup ecosystem.
• Lower cost of living: Housing and daily expenses are below the national average, making it easier to afford a comfortable lifestyle.
• Arts and culture: The area features world-class attractions like the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art and the Walton Arts Center.
• Outdoor recreation: Surrounded by the Ozark Mountains, residents enjoy hiking, biking, and lake activities, with plenty of state parks and trails.

Iowa

Newton, Iowa, is offering cash incentives to homebuyers through its Newton Housing Initiative. This program encourages new home construction and purchases, helping to grow the local community while making homeownership more affordable.

Newton Housing Initiative Details

To qualify, applicants must:

• Purchase or build a new home valued at $190,000 or more
• Have the home’s value confirmed by an official appraiser
• Complete construction before receiving the incentive (verified by a certificate of occupancy)

The program provides:

• A $10,000 cash incentive
• A “Get to Know Newton” welcome package worth around $2,500

Why Move to Newton?

Newton may be a small city, but it offers affordability, career opportunities, and a strong sense of community.

• Tight-knit community: Newton fosters a welcoming atmosphere where neighbors connect and participate in local events.
• Diverse job market: While historically a manufacturing hub, Newton is now expanding into renewable energy and other industries, creating a range of employment opportunities.
• Affordable homeownership: Housing prices are lower than in many urban areas, making Newton attractive for families, first-time buyers, and retirees.
• Recreation and culture: The city offers parks, golf courses, and events like the Bowlful of Blues festival, along with cultural attractions such as the Jasper County Historical Museum.

Kansas

Topeka, the capital of Kansas, is offering cash incentives to attract new residents through its Choose Topeka program. Whether you’re relocating for an on-site job or working remotely, this program provides financial assistance to help with housing costs.

Choose Topeka Program Details

For on-site workers:

• Up to $10,000 for renters in their first year
• Up to $15,000 for homebuyers in their first year

For remote workers:

• Up to $5,000 for renters in their first year
• Up to $10,000 for homebuyers in their first year

To qualify, applicants must:

• Move to Topeka for a full-time job (on-site workers)
• Buy or rent a home in Shawnee County within a year of moving
• Be eligible to work in the United States

Remote workers must also:

• Be employed full-time with a company based outside Shawnee County or be self-employed

Why Move to Topeka?

Topeka offers affordability, history, and a strong sense of community, all within reach of a major metropolitan area.

• Affordable housing: Topeka’s cost of living is well below the national average, making homeownership more accessible.
• Rich history: As the site of the landmark Brown v. Board of Education case, Topeka has deep civil rights significance and a vibrant cultural scene.
• Close-knit community: The city encourages civic engagement, providing residents with opportunities to shape their neighborhoods.
• Convenient location: Just an hour from Kansas City, Topeka offers a quieter, more affordable lifestyle with easy access to big-city amenities.

Maryland

Baltimore is offering financial incentives to encourage homeownership and revitalize older properties. Through programs like Buying Into Baltimore and Vacants to Value, homebuyers can receive forgivable loans and down payment assistance.

Buying Into Baltimore Program

This program provides a $5,000 forgivable loan to homebuyers who meet the following requirements:

• Attend and complete Live Baltimore’s Trolley Tour event
• Contribute at least $1,000 toward the home purchase
• Earn a homeownership counseling certificate before making an offer
• Have a mortgage of $420,680 or less
• Live in the home as their primary residence

Vacants to Value Program

For those purchasing vacant or abandoned homes, this program provides $10,000 toward down payment and closing costs. To qualify, buyers must:

• Purchase an eligible vacant or abandoned property
• Contribute at least $1,000 toward the purchase
• Earn a homeownership counseling certificate
• Have a mortgage of $420,680 or less
• Live in the home as their primary residence

Why Move to Baltimore?

Beyond financial assistance, Baltimore offers a mix of history, culture, and affordability.

• Rich history: Baltimore played a key role in U.S. history, from Fort McHenry to its historic Inner Harbor. Museums, historic ships, and cultural sites highlight the city’s past.
• Unique neighborhoods: From Federal Hill’s historic row houses to Hampden’s artsy vibe, Baltimore has a neighborhood for everyone.
• Seafood and dining scene: Famous for its blue crabs, Baltimore also has a growing brewery and distillery movement.
• Top-tier education and healthcare: Home to Johns Hopkins University and Hospital, Baltimore provides access to world-class research and medical care.

Michigan

Southwestern Michigan is offering remote workers cash incentives and lifestyle perks through its Move to Michigan program. This initiative encourages newcomers to settle in lakeside communities while enjoying financial and recreational benefits.

Move to Michigan Program Details

Qualified applicants can receive:

• $10,000 cash incentive (or $15,000 for those with children in public schools)
• A choice of two additional perks, including:
  • Annual passes to Berrien County Parks, St. Joseph, and Benton Harbor beaches
  • Membership to the Renaissance Athletic Club
  • Access to the Harbor Shores Driving Range and Practice Area
  • A South Shore Rail pass
  • Membership to The Economic Club of Southwestern Michigan Speaker Series
  • A one-year co-working space membership
  • A year’s worth of car services
  • Two corporate VIP passes to the KitchenAid Senior PGA Championship

To qualify, applicants must:

• Be a full-time remote worker employed by a company outside Michigan
• Buy or build a home worth at least $200,000
• Not be a current Michigan resident
• Relocate to one of the designated communities, including St. Joseph, Benton Harbor, and surrounding townships

Why Move to Southwestern Michigan?

This region offers a blend of scenic beauty, recreational activities, and a strong sense of community.

• Lakefront living: With miles of Lake Michigan shoreline, residents enjoy beaches, boating, and waterfront views. St. Joseph and South Haven are known for their charming coastal communities.
• Thriving agriculture: The area is home to vineyards, orchards, and farm-to-table dining, creating a vibrant local food scene.
• Outdoor recreation: Beyond the lake, there are numerous trails, state parks, and green spaces for hiking, biking, and camping.
• Cultural events: Festivals like the National Blueberry Festival in South Haven celebrate the region’s agricultural heritage and community spirit.

Minnesota

Harmony, Minnesota, is offering cash rebates to encourage new home construction and renovations through its Residential Homes Construction Rebate program. This small-town initiative makes homeownership more affordable while revitalizing the community.

Residential Homes Construction Rebate Details

Qualified applicants can receive a rebate of up to $12,000, depending on the home’s market value:

The rebate is available on a first-come, first-served basis until funds run out.

To qualify, applicants must:

• Build a new home or renovate an existing home valued at $50,000 or more
• Be current on all city obligations, including taxes, fees, and utilities

Why Move to Harmony?

Though small, Harmony offers a peaceful environment, natural beauty, and affordability.

• Small-town charm: With a population of just over 1,000, Harmony is ideal for those looking for a quiet, close-knit community.
• Access to nature: Located near the Minnesota-Iowa border, the area features attractions like Niagara Cave, one of the Midwest’s largest limestone caverns, plus hiking and bird-watching opportunities.
• Low cost of living: Housing prices and everyday expenses are below the national average, making Harmony a great option for retirees and growing families.
• Cultural and recreational activities: The town is known for its Amish tours, which offer insight into a unique way of life, and the annual Harmony Arts Festival, celebrating local art and community events.

Oklahoma

Tulsa is offering remote workers a financial incentive and additional perks through the Tulsa Remote program. This initiative helps newcomers settle in while connecting them to the city’s growing community.

Tulsa Remote Program Details

Qualified applicants receive:

• $10,000 cash incentive
• A free one-year membership to a local co-working space
• Housing assistance to help find a rental or home
• Access to networking and community events

To qualify, applicants must:

• Move to Tulsa
• Work remotely full-time for a company outside Oklahoma
• Be at least 18 years old
• Be a U.S. citizen or possess full residency with work eligibility

Why Move to Tulsa?

Tulsa combines affordability, cultural attractions, and outdoor recreation.

• Low cost of living: Housing costs are significantly lower than the national average, making homeownership more accessible.
• Thriving arts and music scene: The city is home to the Philbrook and Gilcrease museums, historic Cain’s Ballroom, and the annual Tulsa International Mayfest.
• Education opportunities: The University of Tulsa, Oral Roberts University, and Tulsa Community College provide higher education options, while local programs like the Tulsa Teacher Corps support public schools.
• Outdoor recreation: The Gathering Place, a nationally recognized riverfront park, offers walking trails, sports courts, and family-friendly attractions. Tulsa also has numerous parks and green spaces for outdoor activities.

West Virginia

West Virginia is offering remote workers cash incentives and lifestyle perks through the Ascend West Virginia program. Designed to attract new residents, this initiative provides financial support, outdoor experiences, and networking opportunities.

Ascend West Virginia Program Details

Qualified applicants receive:

• $12,000 cash stipend over two years ($10,000 in monthly payments the first year, $2,000 lump sum after year two)
• An outdoor experience package worth $2,500, including gear rentals and guided activities
• A free co-working space for remote professionals
• Access to networking and social events to build connections in the community

Why Move to West Virginia?

Beyond financial incentives, West Virginia offers natural beauty, a low cost of living, and a peaceful lifestyle.

• Affordable living: Housing, utilities, and everyday expenses are significantly lower than in many other states.
• Outdoor recreation: With the Appalachian Mountains, scenic rivers, and numerous state parks, residents enjoy hiking, fishing, kayaking, and mountain biking.
• Rich cultural heritage: The state celebrates its deep roots in music, arts, and traditional crafts through events like the Appalachian String Band Music Festival.
• Quiet, stress-free lifestyle: With low population density, less traffic, and a relaxed pace of life, West Virginia is ideal for those seeking a peaceful environment.