With offices shut and face-to-face meetings replaced by Zoom calls, many workers are embracing the opportunity to work remotely. Being untethered from the office means they’re free to live where they want. Consequently, some are leaving behind high rents and congested urban areas for close-knit communities and more affordable homes.
As the trend towards remote work continues to flourish, several states are providing financial incentives and additional perks to attract remote workers. These locations often boast ample space, a lower cost of living, and abundant outdoor opportunities. If you’re considering a change in scenery, either temporarily or permanently, you may find your ideal destination among these options.
Northwest Arkansas
Recently, the Northwest Arkansas Council initiated the Life Works Here initiative, which offers $10,000 along with a new mountain bike or museum membership to successful applicants relocating to the area. This initiative is aimed at attracting remote professionals in science, technology, engineering, arts, or mathematics. New residents can enjoy the stunning Ozark Mountains, craft breweries, world-class museums, and charming small towns in Benton and Washington counties.
Savannah, Georgia
Savannah, with its Southern Gothic charm, is eager to attract remote tech workers through the Savannah Technology Workforce Incentive. Funded by the Savannah Economic Development Authority (SEDA), this incentive offers grants of up to $2,000 to tech workers to help offset some relocation costs. According to SEDA Vice President Jen Bonnett, “Our beautiful, historic downtown, along with access to lovely beaches and a reasonable real estate market, makes us a highly desirable location.”
Tucson, Arizona
Startup Tucson’s pilot program, Remote Tucson, invites remote workers from any industry to relocate to Arizona’s second city. Participants will receive funds for relocation, along with free internet service, moving assistance, and other benefits worth over $7,500 in total. New residents will also be connected with community ambassadors to ease their transition. To apply, individuals can find further information on Startup Tucson’s website.
The Shoals, Northwest Alabama
The Shoals area is offering remote workers $10,000 to assist with their moving costs. The payment structure consists of 25% upfront, another 25% after six months, and the remaining 50% after one year of residency. Located within two hours of Memphis, Nashville, and Birmingham, The Shoals offers affordable housing, tight-knit communities, and a rich musical heritage, with recording studios that have hosted numerous legendary artists. Interested individuals should visit The Shoals’ website for further details.
Tulsa, Oklahoma
The City of Tulsa, in collaboration with the George Kaiser Family Foundation, is offering a grant of US$10,000, alongside various benefits, to eligible applicants wishing to relocate and work remotely in Tulsa for one year. The grants are awarded throughout the year to remote workers or entrepreneurs who live outside Tulsa County. Since its inception in November 2018, the initiative has been successful and continues to be popular, fostering community connections between newcomers and locals.
Topeka, Kansas
In Kansas, the “Choose Topeka” initiative is offering up to $15,000 for professionals considering relocation. This program allocates $10,000 towards the purchase of a home in Topeka or Shawnee County, or $5,000 for a one-year lease in the area. Topeka’s enticing attributes include a cost of living that is 10% below the national average, along with an appealing mix of city and small-town amenities such as vibrant main streets, excellent restaurants, and numerous parks and museums suitable for all ages.
