A growing trend across the U.S.: cities and regions are offering cash, housing assistance, tax incentives, and lifestyle perks to attract new residents, particularly remote workers. Some programs are worth up to $20,000.
Here are some of the standout programs:
| Location | Incentive |
|---|---|
| Texarkana, TX/AR | Package worth over $18,900, including a $5,000 relocation bonus, university tuition discounts, coworking membership, and arts benefits. |
| Tulsa, OK | $10,000 through the well-known Tulsa Remote program for eligible remote workers. |
| Ascend West Virginia | Up to $12,000, plus outdoor recreation perks and free coworking space. |
| Topeka, KS | Up to $15,000 toward relocation and housing through Choose Topeka. |
| Fond du Lac County, WI | Up to $9,500 for qualifying remote workers who relocate for at least one year. |
Why cities are doing this
Many communities are trying to:
- Attract younger professionals.
- Increase their tax base.
- Fill vacant housing.
- Support local businesses.
- Take advantage of the rise in remote work.
What you typically need to qualify
Most programs require applicants to:
- Work remotely or be self-employed.
- Meet a minimum income threshold.
- Relocate from outside the area.
- Commit to living there for one or two years.
- Purchase or rent a home within a specified timeframe.
Most relocation incentives are designed for people who can move anywhere because they work fully remotely. Since your work and business are tied to specific regions, a $5,000–$15,000 relocation incentive may not outweigh the value of staying where you already have established professional and business networks.
If, however, you eventually transition into full-time remote consulting or semi-retirement, these programs could become much more attractive.
One interesting trend: Many of the cities offering relocation incentives are also among most buyer-friendly housing markets for 2026, including places like Indianapolis, Oklahoma City, Memphis, Detroit, and Pittsburgh, where affordability has improved and buyers have more negotiating leverage.