Could a small town be your next big move? Some are paying people to find out
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If you’ve ever daydreamed about starting over in a quieter, more affordable place, now might be the perfect time to consider it.
Around the US, a growing number of small towns and midsize cities are offering financial incentives to people willing to relocate.
These perks aren’t just for twenty-somethings with laptops—many of these programs are open to retirees, remote workers, and empty nesters alike.
The incentives range from cash bonuses to free memberships and discounted housing—all in exchange for bringing new life to local communities.
And for some movers, the change has been more than just financial—it’s been transformational.
Why are towns paying people to move?
As housing prices climb in major cities, smaller towns across the country are facing the opposite problem: too many vacant homes and not enough residents.
Many communities—especially in the Midwest and South—are using incentive programs to attract newcomers and revive local economies.
Whether it’s $10,000 toward a new home or a free pass to the local gym, the goal is to entice people who can work remotely or bring skills and energy into the area.
These programs are often called “pay-to-move” initiatives, and more than 100 of them have emerged in the past decade.
In return for relocating, participants might receive cash, tax benefits, access to coworking spaces, or even cultural perks like free theater tickets.
The underlying hope is that new residents will contribute to community growth and stay long-term.
Also read: Will moving to a different state affect your Social Security benefits? Here's what you need to know
Meet the people making the leap
When Davida Gaffney’s lease ended in Oakland, California, she was facing sky-high rent for an apartment that barely met her needs.
So she looked into programs offering relocation incentives and discovered Rooks County, Kansas.
The $5,000 cash bonus, combined with a state park pass and a personal welcome from the local development director, convinced her to make the move.
“The money helped,” she said, “but really it was about having space and peace of mind. My housing costs are about a third of what they were in California. When I lost my job, I didn’t panic.”
Matthew Mekech, 27, and his partner also left California, settling in Bloomington, Indiana.
Their relocation package included three years of coworking space, business support programs, and even season tickets to the local theater.
With perks valued at $8,000, they were able to buy a home with a yard—and their dog finally got the space to run.
Also read: Thinking of moving? These 11 cities may have weather risks you’ll want to consider
It’s not just about the money—it’s about renewal
Towns also benefit when newcomers arrive.
After Newton, Iowa, lost its local Maytag plant in 2010, the population and economy started to dwindle.
In response, the city offered $10,000 to anyone who purchased a newly built home.
The result? A building surge, more than $37 million in added tax revenue, and the highest population the town has seen in years.
Tulsa, Oklahoma’s Tulsa Remote program has become a national model.
Since 2019, the city has offered $10,000 and a year of free coworking space to remote workers who move there.
According to an independent study, the program has drawn over 3,500 new residents and generated a $4 return for every $1 spent—an impressive return on investment by any measure.
Also read: Something alarming is moving state to state that is prompting nationwide health alerts
Is there a downside to small-town life?
Like any big decision, relocating comes with trade-offs.
While many enjoy the slower pace, sense of community, and affordability, others miss the energy and culture of big-city life.
Fewer restaurants, entertainment options, or specialized healthcare services can be a challenge, depending on where you go.
Still, many programs are actively recruiting retirees and older adults, not just young professionals.
Whether you’re looking to spend less, garden more, or simply enjoy some peace and quiet, there’s likely a place that fits your goals—and may even pay you to move there.
Also read: Dave Ramsey's urgent advice to 59-year-olds with no savings: why retiring with just your house could be a disaster
How do pay-to-move programs work?
Most relocation programs share a few core features:
Popular programs include:
Dozens of others are listed on MakeMyMove.com, covering states from Vermont to Alaska.
Also read: This everyday driving habit could soon cost you—is your state included?
Should you consider one of these towns?
Before committing, it’s worth thinking through the following:
For many people, these incentive programs are about more than money—they’re about quality of life.
Whether it’s financial freedom, personal reinvention, or simply a change of pace, a move like this could open the door to a whole new chapter.
And if a cash bonus or free gym pass helps seal the deal? All the better!
Read next: Get paid to move: Discover the 5 US cities offering cash to new residents–Are you eligible?
Have you thought about relocating? Would a program like this tempt you to pack your bags? Have you already made a similar move and want to share your experience? Drop a comment and let us know—your story might inspire someone else to start their own adventure!
Around the US, a growing number of small towns and midsize cities are offering financial incentives to people willing to relocate.
These perks aren’t just for twenty-somethings with laptops—many of these programs are open to retirees, remote workers, and empty nesters alike.
The incentives range from cash bonuses to free memberships and discounted housing—all in exchange for bringing new life to local communities.
And for some movers, the change has been more than just financial—it’s been transformational.
Some towns across the US are offering cash and perks to new residents ready for a fresh start. Image Source: Pexels / RDNE Stock project.
Why are towns paying people to move?
As housing prices climb in major cities, smaller towns across the country are facing the opposite problem: too many vacant homes and not enough residents.
Many communities—especially in the Midwest and South—are using incentive programs to attract newcomers and revive local economies.
Whether it’s $10,000 toward a new home or a free pass to the local gym, the goal is to entice people who can work remotely or bring skills and energy into the area.
These programs are often called “pay-to-move” initiatives, and more than 100 of them have emerged in the past decade.
In return for relocating, participants might receive cash, tax benefits, access to coworking spaces, or even cultural perks like free theater tickets.
The underlying hope is that new residents will contribute to community growth and stay long-term.
Also read: Will moving to a different state affect your Social Security benefits? Here's what you need to know
Meet the people making the leap
When Davida Gaffney’s lease ended in Oakland, California, she was facing sky-high rent for an apartment that barely met her needs.
So she looked into programs offering relocation incentives and discovered Rooks County, Kansas.
The $5,000 cash bonus, combined with a state park pass and a personal welcome from the local development director, convinced her to make the move.
“The money helped,” she said, “but really it was about having space and peace of mind. My housing costs are about a third of what they were in California. When I lost my job, I didn’t panic.”
Matthew Mekech, 27, and his partner also left California, settling in Bloomington, Indiana.
Their relocation package included three years of coworking space, business support programs, and even season tickets to the local theater.
With perks valued at $8,000, they were able to buy a home with a yard—and their dog finally got the space to run.
Also read: Thinking of moving? These 11 cities may have weather risks you’ll want to consider
It’s not just about the money—it’s about renewal
Towns also benefit when newcomers arrive.
After Newton, Iowa, lost its local Maytag plant in 2010, the population and economy started to dwindle.
In response, the city offered $10,000 to anyone who purchased a newly built home.
The result? A building surge, more than $37 million in added tax revenue, and the highest population the town has seen in years.
Tulsa, Oklahoma’s Tulsa Remote program has become a national model.
Since 2019, the city has offered $10,000 and a year of free coworking space to remote workers who move there.
According to an independent study, the program has drawn over 3,500 new residents and generated a $4 return for every $1 spent—an impressive return on investment by any measure.
Also read: Something alarming is moving state to state that is prompting nationwide health alerts
Is there a downside to small-town life?
Like any big decision, relocating comes with trade-offs.
While many enjoy the slower pace, sense of community, and affordability, others miss the energy and culture of big-city life.
Fewer restaurants, entertainment options, or specialized healthcare services can be a challenge, depending on where you go.
Still, many programs are actively recruiting retirees and older adults, not just young professionals.
Whether you’re looking to spend less, garden more, or simply enjoy some peace and quiet, there’s likely a place that fits your goals—and may even pay you to move there.
Quaint small towns are offering big incentives to attract new residents looking for a change of pace. Image Source: YouTube / World According To Briggs.
How do pay-to-move programs work?
Most relocation programs share a few core features:
- Eligibility requirements: Some are open to everyone, while others focus on remote workers, entrepreneurs, or certain age groups.
- Incentives: Perks can include cash payments, tax credits, housing assistance, gym passes, or business support.
- Commitments: Participants usually must stay for at least one year, and some towns offer added benefits for those who stay longer.
Popular programs include:
- Tulsa Remote (Oklahoma): $10,000 and a coworking space membership.
- Newton, Iowa: $10,000 toward new home purchases.
- Rooks County, Kansas: $5,000 cash plus tax incentives.
- Bloomington, Indiana: Up to $8,000 in perks for new residents.
Dozens of others are listed on MakeMyMove.com, covering states from Vermont to Alaska.
Also read: This everyday driving habit could soon cost you—is your state included?
Should you consider one of these towns?
Before committing, it’s worth thinking through the following:
- Lifestyle: Do you want more space, less traffic, and a close-knit community?
- Family and friends: Will the move bring you closer—or farther—from loved ones?
- Healthcare and services: Does the town have the amenities you need, especially if you have ongoing medical care?
- Climate: Are you ready for snowy winters or hot summers?
- Support networks: Many programs help newcomers make social connections through events and community engagement.
For many people, these incentive programs are about more than money—they’re about quality of life.
Whether it’s financial freedom, personal reinvention, or simply a change of pace, a move like this could open the door to a whole new chapter.
And if a cash bonus or free gym pass helps seal the deal? All the better!
Read next: Get paid to move: Discover the 5 US cities offering cash to new residents–Are you eligible?
Have you thought about relocating? Would a program like this tempt you to pack your bags? Have you already made a similar move and want to share your experience? Drop a comment and let us know—your story might inspire someone else to start their own adventure!
