Are you looking to save money and relocate? Moving to a city that offers cash incentives to new residents could be a great option. With high inflation and stubborn mortgage rates, more workers are taking advantage of these offers, according to U.S. News & World Report.
Realtor.com® senior economist Ralph McLaughlin explains, “The double bonus of a cash subsidy combined with lower home prices can be quite attractive to households with minimal personal or professional ties to their current location.” This is especially beneficial for remote workers priced out of their current housing markets. “Not only would cash compensation help such households get their foot in the door of the housing market, many of the places offering such incentives also happen to have relatively low home prices.”
Here are some cities offering cash and other perks to new residents:
Greater Rochester, NY Program: Greater ROC Relocate
What it offers: Up to $9,000 in grants for purchasing a home in the nine-county region, and up to $10,000 for those in targeted career fields.
Eligibility: Candidates must be at least 18, eligible to work in the U.S., live at least 300 miles from Rochester, and relocate within six months of acceptance.
Why Rochester rocks: According to Barb Egenhofer, director of talent strategy at the Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce, over 170 people have benefited from the program. “Many movers come for the freshwater access, change in seasons, vibrant community offerings, great place to raise a family, inclusivity, and many more reasons,” says Egenhofer.
Jacksonville, IL Program: Make My Move
What it offers: A compensation package worth $9,300, including $5,000 in cash after living there for 12 months. Other benefits include a one-year membership to a driving range, a teeth-whitening package, and a three-month gym membership.
Eligibility: Candidates must be at least 18, earn at least $50,000 annually, live 70 miles outside of the Jacksonville region at the time of application, move to Scott or Morgan County within six months of acceptance, and remain a Jacksonville resident for one year.
Why Jacksonville rocks: Kristin Jamison, president of the Jacksonville Regional Economic Development Corp., notes the program’s positive reception since its launch in May 2024. “So far, 200 people have applied, and we’ve made offers to five professionals.”
Topeka, Kansas Program: Choose Topeka
What it offers: Up to $10,000 for renting in the first year or up to $15,000 for a home purchase, with an employer-match component. Additional programs offer $5,000 to former Topeka residents and those transitioning out of the military.
Eligibility: Candidates must have an on-site job in Shawnee County in Northeast Kansas and rent or purchase a house within a year of their hire or move. (Remote workers are no longer eligible.)
Why Topeka rocks: Bob Ross, senior vice president of marketing and communications for the Greater Topeka Partnership, highlights the city’s world-class amenities and cost of living. “So far, 170 individuals and families have relocated through the program, and over 7,500 people have inquired about moving to Topeka.”
Tulsa, OK Program: Tulsa Remote
What it offers: $10,000 in rental grants through monthly disbursements or a $10,000 lump sum after purchasing a qualifying home, plus a three-year membership to a local co-working space.
Eligibility: Candidates must be at least 18, eligible to work in the U.S., have full-time, remote employment outside of Oklahoma, have lived outside of Oklahoma for one year before applying, and relocate to Tulsa within 12 months of approval.
Why Tulsa rocks: Since the program’s launch in 2018, more than 3,000 remote workers have moved to the city, with 74% remaining there. Justin Harlan, managing director of Tulsa Remote, says, “Our participants have experienced positive lifestyle changes, including financial freedom to embark on homeownership and start businesses.”
West Virginia (Eastern Panhandle, Greater Elkins, Greenbrier Valley, Morgantown, or New River Gorge)
Program: Ascend WV
What it offers: $12,000 in cash incentives: $10,000 disbursed in monthly payments the first year, and $2,000 after the second year. Free co-working space and a one-year Digital Outdoor Recreation Pass, which includes free outdoor gear rentals and access to activities like snowboarding, rock climbing, and white-water rafting.
Eligibility: Candidates must be at least 18, have a full-time job, verify employment details and remote status, and be able to work remotely in West Virginia through a company outside of the state.
Why West Virginia rocks: “West Virginia is the perfect place to work remotely, start a business, buy a house, and raise your family,” says Ascend WV. “With stunning views and endless adventure, West Virginia’s remote work-friendly culture is making waves.”
Whether you’re a remote worker looking for affordable housing or someone eager for a fresh start, these cities offer compelling reasons to make a move. From cash incentives to community perks, these programs can help you find a new home and a new beginning.
