Not Los Angeles or Miami – The 5 cities in the US that will pay you up to $15,000 to move there in 2025

From cash grants to free internet and outdoor perks, these U.S. cities are offering up to $15,000 to attract remote workers in 2025.

Modified on:
August 14, 2025 4:59 am

With an estimated 32.6 million Americans expected to work remotely by 2025—about 22% of the U.S. workforce—cities are scrambling to lure mobile professionals who can live anywhere. Skyrocketing rents and home prices in major hubs like Los Angeles, New York, and Miami have made smaller cities far more appealing, and some are sweetening the deal with cold, hard cash.

Moving to a new city isn’t cheap. Between deposits, movers, and closing costs, relocation can wipe out savings. To help offset those expenses, five U.S. cities are offering incentives worth up to $15,000 to attract new residents—specifically remote workers and homebuyers willing to put down roots.

Here’s a closer look at these programs and what it takes to qualify.

1. Baltimore, Maryland — $5,000 toward buying a home

Through its Buying Into Baltimore program, the city is offering $5,000 for down payments and closing costs to homebuyers selected via a lottery. Participants must attend a special trolley tour (next scheduled for fall 2025), then make an accepted offer within 10 business days.

Applicants need a Homeowner Counselling Certificate, must contribute at least $1,000 of their own money, and the home must serve as their primary residence. The programme isn’t restricted by income level or first-time buyer status—a bonus—and only applies to fixed-rate mortgages under $731,400.

2. Perry County, Indiana — $7,000 plus free perks

This rural county, an hour from Louisville, is actively courting remote workers. Qualified applicants will receive $7,000 in two instalments (one on arrival, another after 12 months) plus extras like three months of free fibre-optic internet, a waived installation fee, local gym memberships, farm-to-table dinners, and a welcome basket.

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To qualify, applicants must:

  • Be 18 or older
  • Earn at least $50,000 annually through full-time or self-employment
  • Live outside Indiana prior to moving
  • Relocate within six months of approval

3. Topeka, Kansas — Up to $15,000 in housing incentives

Choose Topeka is one of the most generous programs on the list, providing $10,000 for renters and up to $15,000 for homebuyers through an employer-matching system.

The city also offers alternative options like an unrestricted $5,000 “Boomerang” grant for former residents or the same amount for veterans transitioning to civilian life. With home prices averaging around $125,000 and a cost of living 10% below the national average, Topeka has become a compelling option for budget-conscious professionals.

4. Tulsa, Oklahoma — $10,000 and a built-in community

Already used by more than 3,500 newcomers, Tulsa Remote provides a $10,000 relocation grant for remote workers who meet age, residency, and work eligibility requirements.

But the perks don’t stop at cash: participants receive 48 months of free coworking space, monthly networking events, wellness opportunities like fitness and spa access, and tailored guidance to help new residents integrate. It’s not just a move—it’s a ready-made professional community.

5. West Virginia — $12,000 and outdoor adventures

Ascend WV offers $12,000 to remote workers willing to relocate anywhere in the state. The payment can be made in monthly instalments or a lump sum if you purchase a home.

In addition to financial incentives, the programme includes 12 months of free outdoor activities—from whitewater rafting to skiing—and access to coworking spaces to help transplants stay connected professionally. Applicants must verify remote full-time work for an out-of-state employer (or self-employment) and move within six months of approval.

Why cities are paying people to move

These incentives reflect a broader demographic shift: Americans are trading expensive coastal cities for affordable, mid-sized regions with room to grow. For communities like Perry County and West Virginia, the arrival of new talent means more tax revenue, more small businesses, and more life in downtown areas. For remote workers, it’s a chance to stretch their salaries further and live where their lifestyle—not just their job—takes center stage.

With options from urban Baltimore to rural Appalachia, 2025 may be the year to move not just for adventure—but for a serious cash bonus.

Emem Ukpong
Emem Ukponghttps://polifinus.com/author/emem-uk/
My journey to becoming a writer has been shaped by both science and finance. I began with a Bachelor's degree in Biochemistry, but I found myself drawn to the economic and financial sphere. I have collaborated with various organizations, creating articles and blogs about these essential topics. Currently, I cover financial trends, economic updates, and social welfare topics for Polifinus, ensuring that our content reaches those who need it most.

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