Remote work is here to stay. And as it becomes more prevalent, so too does the number of cities looking to stimulate their economies by paying remote workers to relocate.
If you’re looking for a change of scenery, this might be a good option for you.
So, here’s a roundup of six cities that are not only welcoming remote workers with open arms but actually incentivizing them to come.
Why Relocate?
Remote work sometimes conjures up the image of jet-setting digital nomads, but many people choose to relocate as a remote worker for practical reasons or lifestyle factors.
And there are incentives for the cities, too. Enticing new residents and workers can have major economic benefits.
Here’s a brief rundown of why relocation is going to be a major trend for 2022 and beyond.
Benefits for workers:
- Change of scenery and a new environment.
- Cheaper cost of living.
- Opportunity to buy a home.
- Move closer to family or friends.
- Be supported in a vibrant, remote worker community with resources and support for small businesses.
Benefits for cities:
- An influx of cash to boost the economy.
- Revitalize lagging arts, culture, and food scene.
- Attract top talent and workers to increase innovation and productivity.
- Increase population.
- Appreciation of real estate as residents buy homes.
No matter the reasons to embrace relocation, it’s definitely making an impact. Census data shows that people are moving out of dense urban areas to smaller cities and towns. During the July 2020-2021 period, there was a decline in growth in major metropolitan areas in the US (i.e., cities like LA, New York, Chicago, Boston, or San Diego)—for the first time in over 30 years!
As organizations decentralize, people leave companies for remote jobs, or forego working for organizations and opt to work for themselves instead, there’s been less need for people to live in city centers. And this mass exodus represents their desire to live somewhere that offers a better cost of living and the lifestyle they prefer.
6 US Cities that Pay Remote Workers to Relocate
There are many cities across the country paying remote workers to relocate. Each city is offering something different, contingent on eligibility requirements like employment type, age, or annual salary. Here are six cities offering great relocation deals for remote workers:
1. Tucson, Arizona
First up is our hometown here in Tucson, Arizona. And, yes, we’re totally biased, but we think that this is the perfect city for any remote worker. Tucson has a lot going for it: an amazing outdoor lifestyle, tons of nearby weekend family getaway spots, growing as an innovation hub, and an affordable cost of living!
Eligibility: Currently residing outside of Tucson and willing to relocate within 6 months; 18+ years old; eligible to work in the US; minimum $65k annual salary.
Benefits: The Remote Tucson program offers a variety of benefits and perks for eligible remote workers. In 2021, this included over $9,000 worth of value with benefits like relocation funds ($1,000), Airbnb credit ($1,000), and access to coworking space ($1,500). The Post partnered with Startup Tucson and we’re thrilled to continue welcoming new remote workers to this city!
More Information: Remote Tucson.
2. Tulsa, Oklahoma
Tulsa is small enough to offer a tight-knit community and large enough to offer all the music, theater, sports, and food options you could ever want. Tulsa Remote has welcomed 1,600 new remote workers to their community since launching the program.
Eligibility: Able to relocate in 12 months; full-time remote work or self-employed; 18+; eligible to work in the US.
Benefits: $10,000 in cash to help with your relocation—part up-front and part in monthly stipends.
More information: Tulsa Remote.
3. West Virginia
West Virginia is a beautiful region, perfect for anyone who loves the outdoors. And with a very affordable cost of living, it’s attracting remote workers from all over the country.
Cities: Lewisburg, Morgantown, or Shepherdstown.
Eligibility: 18+ and employed full-time at a remote job.
Benefits: $10,000 relocation pay plus an additional $2,000 in your second year.
More information: Ascend West Virginia.
4. Topeka, Kansas
Topeka is a diverse, fun, and growing community that’s attracting remote workers through its Choose Topeka program. It’s also a great place to go with a family as there are many family-friendly activities and amenities in the city.
Eligibility: Eligible to work in the US; other requirements vary depending on whether it’s an on-site or remote position.
Benefits: Remote workers are eligible for $5,000 if renting and $10,000 if purchasing a home; other incentives apply to on-site workers.
More information: Choose Topeka.
5. The Shoals, Alabama
The Shoals include the cities of Florence, Muscle Shoals, Sheffield, and Tuscumbia. This region is centrally located, just a few hours’ drive to both the beautiful beaches and exciting cities like Nashville, Atlanta, and Memphis. The Shoals is a creative community, with a long musical and cultural heritage.
Eligibility: 18+; employed full-time remotely or self-employed; earn more than $52,000/year.
Benefits: $10,000 cash for relocation costs.
More information: Remote Shoals.
6. Northwest Arkansas
This region is quickly becoming an exciting technology hub. With over 10,000 job openings but a shortage of talent to fill them, Northwest Arkansas is looking to attract STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) workers through their incentive program.
Eligibility: 24+ with at least two years of work experience; full-time employment, including self-employment; legally able to work in the US.
Benefits: $10,000 in cash or bitcoin and either a bike or annual membership to arts and culture institutions.
More information: Finding NWA.
So many people are drawn to remote work because of the flexibility. You can build the lifestyle you want without getting tied down by location! And these cities are making it easier than ever to relocate somewhere new.
If you’d like to find an incredible flexible office space for your remote business in Tucson, book a tour of The Post today.