If you’re like most people right now, you may be considering your cost of living. With inflation up and housing costs soaring along with it, many of us are looking at our budgets with a lot of question marks.
Are you willing to consider a change of scenery?
These eight cities across the United States are not only inviting, but they’re also paying people to move there.
From the mountainous landscapes of West Virginia to the musical heritage of the Shoals in Alabama, each city offers unique incentives and attractions that make them worth considering!
8 US Cities That are Paying People to Move There
1. Ascend WV – West Virginia
West Virginia, known for its stunning Appalachian Mountains and numerous state parks, invites newcomers through the Ascend WV program. The state offers $12,000 and a year’s worth of free outdoor recreation. It’s an excellent place for someone who loves the outdoors.
Median Rent: $800/month
Median House Price: $96,400
Population: 1.79 million
West Virginia has beautiful landscapes, including the Appalachian Mountains and numerous state parks. The state hosts several events, such as the Mountain State Forest Festival and the West Virginia Strawberry Festival.
2. Greater Lafayette, Indiana
Greater Lafayette, Indiana, is enticing new residents through the Make My Move program.
The program offers a total of $10,000 in incentives from a $5,000 relocation stipend, a co-working discount, Chamber of Commerce membership, and more!
Median Rent: $763/month
Median House Price: $152,800
Population: 174,700 in Tippecanoe County
Lafayette is known for its lively arts scene, with several galleries and live performances annually. The historic downtown district adds charm to the city, and the Wabash River enhances its scenic beauty.
3. Grow The Boro – Owensboro, Kentucky
Owensboro, Kentucky, offers a relocation incentive of up to $5,000 to move to this city through the Grow The Boro program.
Along with this stipend, there are other perks like tickets to festivals, concerts, museums, and even free coffee at local coffee shops once a week. It’s a great city if you are looking for somewhere with great food and a lively downtown.
Median Rent: $707/month
Median House Price: $128,300
Population: 59,809
Owensboro is known for its exciting downtown area filled with shopping, dining, and entertainment. The city also hosts the annual International Bar-B-Q Festival, which attracts barbecue enthusiasts from all over.
4. Home Base Lincoln County Program – Lincoln County, Kansas
Another city paying people to move is Lincoln County, Kansas, who offers a great package to relocate to the area.
You will receive $4,500 in cash, internet credit, and have your state income tax waived through 2026 with the Home Base Lincoln Country Program. While Lincoln County is a small population, it has a friendly community and a beautiful landscape.
Median Rent: $667/month
Median House Price: $55,700
Population: 2,960
The Post Rock Scenic Byway and Lincoln State Park are notable attractions, providing numerous recreational opportunities.
5. Paducah, Kentucky
Paducah, Kentucky, offers $5,000 for new residents to buy homes there along with an additional $2,500 if you are moving with a spouse.
Known for its vibrant arts scene and the National Quilt Museum, Paducah is a city that values culture and history.
Median Rent: $658/month
Median House Price: $119,300
Population: 24,850
The historic downtown area and Riverfront area are main attractions, and the city hosts an annual QuiltWeek event.
6. Remote Shoals – The Shoals, Alabama Region
The Shoals area, which includes the cities of Florence, Muscle Shoals, Sheffield, and Tuscumbia, offers up to $10,000 for new residents who are remote workers.
Known for its rich musical history, including FAME Studios, the Shoals area is a hub of Southern charm.
Median Rent: $606/month
Median House Price: $89,800
Population: Around 72,000
The cities are rich in Southern charm and host various music festivals, such as the W.C. Handy Music Festival.
7. Greater ROC Remote – Greater Rochester, New York
Greater Rochester, New York, offers a variety of incentives for new residents, including grants for homebuyers through the Greater ROC Remote program.
You can receive up to $10,00 in relocation incentives if you rent. If you purchase a home, you can get an additional $9,000. Known for its strong sense of community, excellent school systems, and beautiful parks, Rochester is a city that values quality of life.
Median Rent: $912/month
Median House Price: $149,600
Population: Around 1.2 million in the Greater Rochester area
The city hosts numerous festivals, including the Lilac Festival and Rochester International Jazz Festival, adding to its vibrant community spirit. It has excellent school systems and beautiful parks if you are moving with a family.
8. Tulsa Remote – Tulsa, Oklahoma
Yet another small town paying people to move is Tulsa, Oklahoma. The city offers $10,000 and a membership at a co-working space for remote workers through the Tulsa Remote program. It’s a great place for remote workers looking for a lower cost of living.
Median Rent: $825/month
Median House Price: $128,700
Population: 402,500
Tulsa has a lively arts district and beautiful parks, including the Gathering Place, a riverfront park that’s been recognized as one of the best in the country. The city also hosts the annual Tulsa International Mayfest.
Will You Take Advantage of These Cities Paying People to Move?
If you are planning a move, make sure to consider these eight locations.
If you are adventurous and like to try something new, you may find that you can lower your expenses through these grants and find a new part of the United States that you can call home.