We all know that big cities can be exciting—tall skyscrapers, bright lights, endless entertainment. But sometimes, the hustle and bustle just gets a little too intense. And let’s be honest: city life can be expensive. Wouldn’t it be nice to slow down, enjoy a quieter lifestyle, and maybe even get paid to move somewhere new? Good news: there are actually small towns across the United States that offer pretty hefty incentives—often $10,000 or more—to people willing to relocate.
Below, you’ll find nine such places. Each has its own specific program requirements, so you’ll have to read the fine print. But if you’re ready to trade city traffic for small-town charm, these opportunities might be just what you need.
1. Tulsa, Oklahoma: Tulsa Remote ($10,000)
Tulsa Remote has been getting a lot of buzz lately—mainly because it offers qualified remote workers $10,000 cash to relocate to Tulsa. This program was launched to attract professionals who can work from anywhere but might appreciate the lower cost of living, vibrant arts scene, and growing entrepreneurial community in Tulsa.
What’s the deal?
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You must be a full-time remote worker or self-employed outside of Oklahoma.
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You have to be able to move to Tulsa within a certain time frame and live there for at least a year.
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Selected participants get $10,000, plus access to networking events, fun socials, and even coworking spaces to help them connect with the local community.
Tulsa might surprise you with its cultural and food scene, from trendy coffee shops to world-class museums like the Philbrook Museum of Art. It’s also known for its lower-than-average cost of living, so that $10k goes even further here.
2. Northwest Arkansas: Life Works Here ($10,000)
Northwest Arkansas—home to cities like Bentonville, Fayetteville, and Rogers—has emerged as a major hub for business and outdoor recreation. Thanks to the “Life Works Here” incentive program, eligible newcomers can receive $10,000 just for choosing to make this region their home.
The highlights:
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Open to full-time remote workers and entrepreneurs.
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The bonus comes in the form of $10,000. In one iteration of the program, participants could even choose to receive the cash in Bitcoin.
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On top of that, they’ll throw in a free bike (street or mountain) so you can enjoy the area’s many biking trails.
Why move to Northwest Arkansas? It’s got everything from beautiful lakes and hiking spots to a thriving arts scene (the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art is a standout). It’s a friendly place for both families and single professionals who want a balanced lifestyle.
3. The Shoals, Alabama: Remote Shoals ($10,000)
Located in the northwestern part of Alabama, The Shoals region is made up of four main cities: Florence, Muscle Shoals, Tuscumbia, and Sheffield. This area is famous for its musical heritage—especially the legendary recording studios that drew in stars like Aretha Franklin and the Rolling Stones.
About the incentive:
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The Remote Shoals program offers up to $10,000 for people who agree to move there, work remotely, and stay at least a year.
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Applicants should have an annual income of at least $52,000 and be employed remotely.
Once you’re in The Shoals, you can enjoy a great music scene, friendly neighborhoods, and gorgeous views along the Tennessee River. If you’re a music lover or someone who appreciates a relaxed pace of life, it’s definitely worth checking out.
4. Hamilton, Ohio: Talent Attraction Program ($10,000)
Hamilton is a small city located in southwestern Ohio, about 35 minutes north of Cincinnati. It might not be as well-known as some of the other places on this list, but it’s been investing heavily in revitalizing its downtown and arts community. They’ve built a strong support system for young professionals who want to put down roots.
The program specifics:
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Hamilton’s Talent Attraction Program Scholarship can give certain new residents up to $10,000.
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You’ll generally need to be a recent graduate with a specific field of study that aligns with local workforce needs, or you might just need to demonstrate a desire to work in the region.
Hamilton has been working hard to bring in breweries, coffee shops, and art spaces. It’s close to Cincinnati, so you can easily enjoy that city’s events while coming home to a quieter community.
5. Topeka, Kansas: Choose Topeka ($10,000–$15,000)
The Choose Topeka program, based in Kansas’s capital city, made headlines for offering up to $15,000 in cash incentives. While Topeka itself is not super tiny (it’s the fifth-largest city in Kansas), it still has a cozy, small-town vibe and a cost of living that’s significantly lower than the national average.
Key points:
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Remote workers can get $5,000 to $10,000, while on-site workers recruited by local employers can get up to $15,000.
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You’ll need to buy or rent a home in Topeka and commit to living there for at least a year.
Topeka has a growing arts district, historic sites, and an active local food culture. It’s also close to Kansas City and Lawrence if you want to explore bigger-city amenities from time to time.
6. North Platte, Nebraska: WorkNP (Matching Relocation Incentive Up to $5,000+, Often $10k in Total)
North Platte, a railroad town in the heart of Nebraska, launched the WorkNP program to attract workers to the area. Although the city itself pays up to $5,000, many local employers match that amount, effectively giving newcomers up to $10,000 or more in relocation assistance.
The details:
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You need to secure a job with a North Platte employer who participates in the matching program.
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If they put up $5,000, the city matches it, and you walk away with a total of $10,000 in incentive funds.
North Platte is proud of its community spirit. It’s a place where neighbors know each other, and outdoor recreation—like fishing, hunting, and hiking—is abundant. For those who value a simpler way of life, North Platte might be right on track.
7. Morgantown, West Virginia: Ascend WV ($12,000)
West Virginia might not be the first place you think of when you picture remote work hubs, but the Ascend West Virginia program is trying to change that. Morgantown, located near the Pennsylvania border, is one of the first communities to welcome remote workers through this initiative.
Ascend WV highlights:
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Selected applicants receive $12,000 in cash for relocating.
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They also get free access to coworking spaces and a year’s worth of outdoor recreation—like guided whitewater rafting and rock climbing excursions.
Morgantown offers a mix of small-city comforts and outdoor adventure, thanks to its location in the Appalachian region. It’s also home to West Virginia University, which gives the area a lively college-town feel, with restaurants and cafes aplenty.
8. Newton, Iowa: Home Buyer Assistance (Up to $10,000)
Newton is a small town located about 35 miles east of Des Moines. Known historically for its manufacturing roots, it’s now focusing on community development and is eager to attract more residents.
The incentive program:
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Newton’s housing initiative offers up to $10,000 in cash incentives to people who buy or build new homes in the community.
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The exact amount can vary based on the property’s value and a few other factors.
Newton’s downtown area has a charming collection of shops, and the town boasts plenty of green spaces. If you appreciate a steady pace of life, friendly neighbors, and easy access to Des Moines for big-city amenities, Newton could be your place to call home.
9. Harmony, Minnesota: Residential Home Construction Rebate (Up to $12,000)
Harmony is a tiny, scenic town in southeastern Minnesota, famous for its Amish community and rolling farmland. It’s a tight-knit place where people look out for one another—and they’re ready to put their money where their mouth is if you decide to settle down here.
How it works:
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Harmony’s rebate program offers up to $12,000 to those who build a new home within city limits.
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The exact rebate depends on the assessed value of the home, but it can climb into the five-figure range.
Life in Harmony means plenty of fresh air, farmland views, and a slower pace. The community organizes seasonal festivals, has walking and biking trails, and is surrounded by beautiful countryside. If you dream of building your own home in a peaceful spot, this could be your chance.
What’s Next?
If one of these places sparks your interest, your next steps are pretty simple:
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Check Eligibility: Every relocation program has specific rules about your job type (remote vs. local employer), income, or educational background. Make sure you qualify before you start packing.
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Do a Deep Dive: Learn more about each town’s vibes, cost of living, schools, healthcare facilities, and entertainment options. Look at housing prices or rental rates online, and if possible, plan a short visit.
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Apply: Visit the official websites for these programs and follow their application process. Some only open up certain times of the year and have limited spots available.
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Plan Your Move: If you’re accepted, great news! Now it’s time to arrange housing, figure out the moving logistics, and get settled in your new town.
Final Thoughts
Let’s face it: pulling up stakes and moving to a smaller community can be a big decision. But there’s something appealing about having more space, friendly neighbors, and the chance to truly get to know your community. Add a cash incentive into the mix, and it becomes even more tempting.
From Tulsa’s bustling remote work scene to Harmony’s quaint farmland, each of these towns has a unique charm—and a real reason for you to consider calling them home. Whether you’re a digital nomad craving a change of scenery or just someone looking to buy a first home somewhere quieter, these programs could help you reach that goal.
So if you’re tired of crowded city sidewalks and sky-high rent, why not look into a move that’ll actually pay you? These nine small towns are waiting with open arms—and open wallets. Who knows, your perfect hometown might be right around the corner.
