Make your move worthwhile. Cities and states are offering incentives, cash, amenities and other benefits when you relocate.

Programs - Apply Today to Access Benefits When You Move

It’s not uncommon to meet people in Owensboro who came for a short stay and ended up settling down - a testament to the community and quality of life in this hospitable Southern town. Locals gather for live music at a myriad of venues across the city which is home to the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame and ROMP, a not-to-be-missed 3 day music festival celebrating country music of all varieties. Remote workers with families will appreciate the top performing schools and the investment the community makes in youth spaces and activities. Case in point - the recently renovated Smothers Park, located on premium riverside real estate, has been named the top playground in the world (2015) by Landscape Architect’s Network.

It's for real, and MakeMyMove helps you find the right community for you, connect with locals there, and get support to make your move a piece of cake.
Locals gather for live music at a myriad of venues across the city which is home to the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame and ROMP, a not-to-be-missed 3 day music festival celebrating country music of all varieties. Remote workers with families will appreciate the top performing schools and the investment the community makes in youth spaces and activities.

Owensboro

Owensboro, Kentucky

Three month membership to the Owensboro Health Healthpark

One year membership with Western Kentucky Botanical Garden

One year Chamber Young Professional Membership (For movers 21-40)

Two 3-concert flex package to Owensboro Symphony Concert Season

Two free passes for Barrel Thieving Distillery Tour

Two free admissions to Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame & Music

Two tickets to event of choice in 2023 at Woodward Theatre

 One free dance class from Johnson’s Dance Studio

Free 16 oz. coffee & one donut per week for one year from local coffee shop

Free banjo, fiddle, or mandolin lessons with a local instructor

Build Your Future in Greater Cedar Rapids

Looking for a fresh start in a place where it’s easy to put down roots and feel connected? Welcome to Greater Cedar Rapids—where opportunity meets community. Whether you settle in Cedar Rapids, Marion, or Hiawatha, you’ll find a place that’s safe, friendly, and full of potential.

Here, neighbors wave. Kids ride bikes. You can live minutes from work, school, nature, and nightlife—with no long commutes, sky-high costs, or endless waitlists. The region blends the perks of a larger city (think great food, vibrant arts, big-name employers) with the pace and charm of smaller towns. It’s a place where you can grow your career 

 your community impact—all while enjoying a lifestyle that actually feels good.

 program helps you move with confidence—and connects you to the people and places that will make you feel at home from day one.


Get a boost to cover your move and start strong in your new city.

Membership to the Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance


Plug into your new community through networking events, local business resources, and civic opportunities.


Dive into everything from outdoor yoga and summer concerts to kids’ sports leagues and family festivals across all three communities.


Enjoy a night out at the ballpark with free tickets for the whole crew.


Includes two 6-packs and a $50 gift card—your first round’s on us!


From free golf simulator hours to restaurant gift cards and coworking space, Cedar Rapids has a warm welcome waiting.

Whether you're walking to a local coffee shop, joining a volunteer group, or taking your kids to the park, you'll quickly discover how easy it is to connect here. The people are kind, the neighborhoods are tight-knit, and the opportunities are real—both professionally and personally.

So go ahead—build your future in a place that supports every part of your life.

Check out the eligible communities in The Greater Cedar Rapids area below!

Make your move to a region that blends big-city opportunity with small-town charm. With a $5,000 relocation bonus, local perks, and a warm welcome in Cedar Rapids, Marion, or Hiawatha, this program helps you settle in, get connected, and thrive—both personally and professionally.

Cedar Rapids

Get Connected to the Community with a Free Economic Alliance Membership

Explore the Outdoors with our Parks and Recreation Vouchers (Varying per community)

5 Tickets to use at any Cedar Rapids Kernels Baseball Game

Hall Lending Group: Free home appraisal ($650–$850 value) with financing. Ask about our 1% down program!

X-Golf Cedar Rapids: Get 2 free hours on our state-of-the-art golf simulators

For Cedar Rapids Residents: 6 months of free co-working space at the Armstrong Hub

20 free day passes to Vault Co-working space in the NewBo District

Enjoy a free day of relaxation with yoga, massage, and more at Prairiewoods Franciscan Spirituality Center

Spare Time Entertainment: One free hour of bowling and $10 arcade credit per person for up to 4 guests

 is designed for boomerangs–former Detroit residents, those with an ancestral connection to the city, and graduates from Michigan colleges and universities ready to build their futures in Detroit.

Detroiters are special. This city makes you. Now it’s your turn to invest back in it, bringing your experiences, skills, and ambitions to be born right here in Detroit. Detroit isn’t just one of the ‘coolest places to visit’ according to Travel & Leisure; it’s an even better place to build a life. As Vogue says, “Detroit is having a major moment.” This is your sign to not let it pass you by.

After all, Detroit is in your blood, in your imagination, and in your memories. Whether you grew up here, studied here, or said ‘whatupdoe’ at your family reunion, Detroit is the kind of place you’re searching for wherever you go. Your people are here, opportunity is here, and the kind of life you’ve been dreaming about is possible–only in Detroit. You can make an impact on the world–in your career and in your community-and still kick back to enjoy your life, all courtesy of the 3-1-3. You can get a front row seat to world-class art, musical genius, world-renown architecture, and sports contenders on every corner, plus a table or a ticket at the hottest spot in town. You could even start your own. Nothing stops Detroit.

You’ve been wondering if it’s time to make Detroit home? Well boss up, then pack up. 

Detroit’s greatest strength has always been its people. That includes the ex-pats on loan to other cities across the states. This “alumni network” of people who already know and care about Detroit can be an asset–especially when we welcome them home.

Choosing where you’ll invest your energy and build your future is voting with your feet. The place you choose to live benefits from your tax dollars–an investment in local quality of life; from your expertise in the local talent pool–one in demand from Detroit’s fast-growing industries and innovation ecosystem; and from your investment–as a customer to local business, a homeowner in your community, and beyond. 

Make Detroit Home: Returning Home to Detroit 

welcomes the former Detroiters and area graduates most likely to return, stay, and invest in the community, while amplifying what’s beautiful and unique about Detroit’s people and culture.

Participants will be invited to join one curated 

 aligned with their interests and goals upon touching down in Detroit. Each is designed to grow participants’ local networks and community connections, so its never been faster to feel right at home. Programs include access to community events, VIP Detroit experiences, industry-specific opportunities, and more. The 

: Get socialized with Detroit via community dinners, unique Detroit experiences, and other social events.

: Community-building, coworking events, HQ-level talks & resources, and other opportunities for remote workers

acceleration series for innovators and creators

: includes exposure to industry experts and community leaders, industry-relevant and unique Detroit experiences, as well as resources to support your growth.

A Warm Re-introduction to Your Best Detroit Life - 

All participants will be enrolled in a one-year Welcome Program designed to increase engagement in your city, and amplify your quality of life right here at home. Benefits include:

Discounts at local businesses and cultural institutions

A one-year membership in the MoveDetroit Digital Community*

A free parks pass to enjoy Belle Isle and Michigan’s more than 100 state parks and recreation areas–a lot of natural beauty only a short drive from home

Curated list of Detroit programs and policy opportunities–a one-stop shop to programs you may be eligible for and the broad set of benefits of being a Detroiter

*May be subject to change or exchange for equivalent community engagement opportunities.

💰 Financial Support to Live & Work in Detroit - 

To support your next chapter in the city, selected participants will receive meaningful funding to invest in their futures and improve their lives in Detroit.

to be used towards a business investment/work project, downpayment, home renovation, or other housing subsidy.

Participants not selected for the $15,000 stipends will be eligible for 

 relocation or financial support to cover costs of your transition back home or increase your quality of life in Detroit—think moving costs, security deposits, or gym memberships, kayaking lessons, or meal delivery from your favorite Detroit restaurant.

$15,000 stipends are limited. Eligible applicants meeting program criteria will be reviewed by the Move Detroit team, with final selections based on each candidate’s demonstrated long-term commitment to Detroit, and the projected personal & community impact of each candidate’s plans for their $15,000 stipend, to support them staying, building, and sparking growth in Detroit. Move Detroit may contact candidates as part of the stipend selection process.

Returning to Detroit isn’t just a move—it’s your big shot, a chance to reconnect with a city shooting the moon while you get the opportunity to play a part in what’s next. 

is about reuniting former Detroiters with their future–one that’s brighter than you could even imagine. Today’s the day to make that long-term investment in your career, your community, and Detroit’s continued growth. We can’t wait to welcome you back home.

Make Detroit Home is designed for boomerangs–former Detroit residents, those with an ancestral connection to the city, and graduates from Michigan colleges and universities ready to build their futures in Detroit. Detroiters are special. This city makes you. Now it’s your turn to invest back in it, bringing your experiences, skills, and ambitions to be born right here in Detroit. Detroit isn’t just one of the ‘coolest places to visit’ according to Travel & Leisure; it’s an even better place to build a life. As Vogue says, “Detroit is having a major moment.” This is your sign to not let it pass you by.

Detroit

Returning Detroiters: Make Detroit Home

High-Impact Connections & Community - Participants will be invited to join one curated Community Event Series aligned with their interests and goals. Each is designed to amplify participants’ local networks, including access to community and industry leaders, relevant resources, and VIP Detroit experiences. 

A Warm Re-introduction to Your Best Detroit Life - All participants will be enrolled in a one-year Welcome Program designed to increase engagement in your city, and amplify your quality of life right here at home.

Financial Support to Live & Work in Detroit - To support your next chapter in the city, selected participants will receive meaningful funding to invest in their futures and improve their lives in Detroit. Select participants will be offered $15,000 to be used towards a business investment/work project, downpayment, home renovation, or other housing subsidy. Participants not selected for the $15,000 stipends will be eligible for $1,000 in financial support to invest in a more comfortable quality of life in Detroit.

Where Startups Scale and Innovation Takes Root.

The City of Detroit is proud to launch the 

, a new initiative designed to elevate startup talent in Detroit and drive Michigan’s innovation ecosystem forward. Targeting recent graduates from Michigan universities, the program helps promising founders stay and scale their ventures in-state—strengthening Detroit as a hub for AI, biotech, clean energy, smart manufacturing, mobility, and other emerging industries.

A monthly stipend to support housing and living expenses

A community of high agency, like-minded peers 

Detroit’s startup scene is growing fast—and your future could grow with it. Whether you're launching your venture or taking it to the next stage, this is your chance to build something bold in a city built on reinvention.

The City of Detroit is proud to introduce the DetroitTech Fellowship Program, a new initiative to elevate Michigan’s next generation of founders and innovators. Designed for recent graduates of Michigan universities, this program helps promising startup talent stay and scale in-state—while reinforcing Detroit’s position as a leader in AI, biotech, clean energy, mobility, and smart manufacturing.

Detroit Tech Fellowship

$2,000 per month stipend for one year to support rent and living expenses and enable full time focus on startup development

One year monthly membership at Bamboo's Downtown Detroit and Midtown Detroit coworking space locations for each selected startup fellow plus one member of their staff or leadership team

One year monthly membership at the TechTown Detroit coworking space for each selected startup fellow plus one member of their staff or leadership team

Newlab Detroit will offer a one year membership for selected fellows plus one member of their staff or leadership team for startups aligned with its mission *eligibility and access determined by Newlab

Situated in Southeast Missouri midway between St. Louis, Missouri, and Memphis, Tennessee, Poplar Bluff is home to approximately 35,000 people. We are nestled among the Ozark foothills, spring-fed streams, The 400 mile Ozark Trail, the Mark Twain National Forest, the Ozark Scenic National Riverways, Wappapello & Clearwater Lake and fertile farmland. Poplar Bluff serves as a regional hub for education, health care, banking, retail and manufacturing for over 100,000 people.

Poplar Bluff

Move to Poplar Bluff

One year membership to Smart Space, a co-working space in the community

Free shows at the Black River Coliseum for one year

Circle Fiber first 3 months internet free

Free one year membership to the City golf course

Family entertainment at the Tinnin Fine Arts Center for one year

Three Rivers College family pass for all sporting events for one year

One free night hotel stay (Hampton or Holiday Inn)

Free one year membership to the Poplar Bluff Chamber of Commerce

Free family membership for 6 months at Ozark Wellness

$50 gift card at the Landing, in Van Buren

$175 off any two night (Lakeview) cabin rental at Otahki Lake

$25 restaurant gift card to Colton's/Brad+Butter, Castello's, Wine Rack, and King David's Winery

$100 gift card to the office supply store

Four free jump passes to Sky High trampoline park

One free family pass for PBHS sporting events 

Explore the Perks of Life in Pittsfield, Illinois

Nestled in the rolling hills of West Central Illinois, Pittsfield blends small-town charm with a welcoming, close-knit spirit. Residents enjoy friendly neighborhoods, a low cost of living, and a pace of life that leaves room for connection and community. From the historic architecture of the courthouse square to the unique shops and eateries downtown, Pittsfield offers both tradition and vibrancy. Outdoor enthusiasts will love the access to Illinois’ natural beauty, with nearby hunting, fishing, hiking, and scenic parks. Add in local festivals, high school sports pride, and a culture of neighborly hospitality, and you’ll quickly see why Pittsfield feels like home. To make your move even smoother, we’ve assembled a collection of benefits to help you settle in, meet your neighbors, and start thriving from day one:

 Receive $5,000 in direct financial support to make your move to Pittsfield seamless, whether you use it for moving expenses, home updates, or settling into your new community.

🌐 3 Free Months of High-Speed Internet, Phone & TV Bundle:

 Stay connected from day one with three months of complimentary high-speed internet, phone, and TV service, helping you get your home and work life running smoothly.

🚰 3 Free Months of Water and Sewer Utilities:

 Enjoy three months of no-cost water and sewer services, easing your initial transition and lowering your setup costs.

🏊 Family Pool Pass to King Park Pool: 

Cool off and have fun all summer long with a season pass for the whole family to King Park Pool, a local favorite for relaxation and recreation.

🛡 Free 6 Months of Identity Theft Insurance from Farmers State Bank:

 Protect your personal information with six months of identity theft insurance, giving you peace of mind as you settle in.

🌾 1-Year Membership to Access Illinois Outdoors:

 Explore the region’s natural beauty with a full year of membership, granting you access to exclusive outdoor activities like hunting, fishing, and nature experiences across Illinois.

 Get outside and discover Pittsfield’s disc golf courses with a starter kit that includes everything you need to learn and enjoy the sport.

🏡 Free Home Inspection with the Purchase of a Home through Ridgeline Sales Group:

 Save on closing costs and ensure peace of mind with a complimentary home inspection when you buy through Ridgeline Sales Group.

🤝 Join a Local Service Organization Board:

 If you’re passionate about giving back, you’ll be connected with a local service organization where you can serve on the board, share your skills, and make a difference.

 Be partnered with a friendly local ambassador who will personally show you around, introduce you to community members, and help you discover Pittsfield’s best-kept secrets.

🏢 Upcoming: Access to Incubator Offices and Conference Room Space: 

Take advantage of future access to shared office and meeting space, perfect for entrepreneurs, freelancers, and remote workers.

 Receive a thoughtfully curated basket filled with local products, gift cards, and information to help you feel right at home from your first day.

Lincoln approved! Pittsfield, Illinois, is a small, historic city known for its picturesque landscapes and rich heritage.

Pittsfield

Move to Pittsfield 

3 Free Months of High Speed Internet, Phone & TV Bundle

3 Free Months of Water and Sewer Utilities 

Free 6 Months of Identity Theft Insurance from Farmers State Bank

1 Year Membership to Access Illinois Outdoors

Disc Golf Starter Kit to try out Pittsfield's Courses

Free Home Inspection with the Purchase of a Home through Ridgeline Sales Group

Have something you're passionate about? Sit on a local service organization's board

Pittsfield New Neighbor Network - You will be partnered with a local who will take you under their wing and show you the best Pittsfield has to offer!

Upcoming: Access to Incubator Offices and Conference Room Space 

New Haven, Indiana is a small town that prides itself on its strong sense of community and welcoming locals. The city has a downtown district with local businesses, restaurants and cafes. The proximity to several major metropolitan areas such as Fort Wayne, Chicago, and Indianapolis makes it an ideal location for those who want to live in a small community but still have easy access to the amenities and opportunities of larger cities.

The city also has a strong commitment to the arts with a thriving arts scene, local theater groups and an annual concert series. The community is welcoming and open-minded, with a diverse population.

Close by are great outdoors opportunities, it's surrounded by beautiful parks and nature reserves, such as Chain O'Lakes State Park, which offers hiking, camping, fishing, and boating opportunities. The city is also home to an annual farmers market where local farmers sell their produce, and several other events and festivals throughout the year, that create a sense of community among residents.

The city offers great outdoor opportunities, low cost of living for remote workers looking to move to a great community.

The city has a strong commitment to the arts with a thriving arts scene, local theater groups and an annual concert series. The community is welcoming and open-minded, with a diverse population. 
Close by are great outdoor opportunities. It's surrounded by beautiful parks and nature reserves, such as Chain O'Lakes State Park, which offers hiking, camping, fishing, and boating opportunities.


New Haven

Move to New Haven

Jury Park Pool Pass OR a month free at a local gym

Jackson offers the perfect blend of small town charm and opportunity—a city where you can put down roots, make an impact, and enjoy an incredible quality of life. With a walkable downtown full of revitalized spaces, local shops, and vibrant events, there’s always something to explore. Known for its welcoming spirit and growing diversity, Jackson embraces newcomers with open arms and real opportunities to get involved. Whether you're passionate about the arts, outdoor adventure, or community leadership, you’ll find your place—and your people—right here.

 The City of Jackson is providing $25,000 in down payment assistance per home through the 100 Homes Program, making homeownership significantly more accessible.

 Qualified buyers can also apply for an additional $10,000 in down payment assistance through the Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA), maximizing your financial advantage.

 Enjoy the benefits of a brand-new home built on vacant city-owned residential lots.

 Homes will be sold to qualified buyers earning up to 120% of the Area Median Income (AMI), ensuring affordability for a wide range of residents.

 Both current Jackson residents and those looking to relocate are welcome to participate in the program.

 Purchase your new home with a traditional mortgage, making the process straightforward and manageable.

 These homes are designed for those looking to become part of the Jackson community and establish a permanent residence.

Explore the Perks of Life in Jackson, Michigan

Located between Ann Arbor and Lansing, Jackson blends small-town charm with urban energy and natural beauty. Known for its vibrant arts scene, historic architecture, and a growing network of local businesses, Jackson offers a lifestyle that’s both welcoming and full of opportunity. Residents enjoy easy access to parks, lakes, walkable neighborhoods, and a revitalized downtown filled with events, dining, and community spirit. With relocation incentives, wellness perks, and opportunities to connect, we've curated a set of benefits to help you settle in, get involved, and thrive in Jackson from your very first day:

Up to $25,000 in Down Payment Assistance through the 100 Homes Program:

 Qualifying homebuyers can receive up to $25,000 in down payment support through the City of Jackson’s 100 Homes program—an initiative focused on revitalizing neighborhoods and increasing homeownership opportunities across the city.

1-Year Membership to Ella Sharp Park Golf Course:

 Enjoy a full year of play at this scenic 18-hole course nestled in the heart of Ella Sharp Park, with tree-lined fairways, rolling hills, and convenient access just minutes from downtown Jackson.

1-Month Household YMCA Membership + 5-Class Adult Punch Card:

 Jumpstart your wellness routine with a complimentary month for your household at the Jackson YMCA, plus a 5-class punch card for adult fitness programs ranging from yoga and Zumba to cycling and strength training.

12 Free Community Events at the Chamber of Commerce:

 Get connected through a year’s worth of free access to local Chamber of Commerce events—from business mixers and workshops to community celebrations and networking socials.

Breakfast with the City Manager and Staff:

 Gain insider insight and build civic connections with an exclusive invitation to breakfast with Jackson’s city leadership, where you can ask questions, share ideas, and learn more about how the city works.

Connection to People for the Parks & Trails:

 Get involved in meaningful volunteer work with this nonprofit that supports Jackson’s parks and trail systems—perfect for outdoor lovers who want to give back and meet likeminded locals.

Connection to Jackson Public Schools Volunteer Opportunities:

 Make a difference in local education by connecting with volunteer roles in Jackson Public Schools, from classroom support to event help—great for families or individuals passionate about youth and learning.

With a mission focused on improving quality of life and a vision of being a bold and inclusive city, Jackson is committed to sustainable planning, innovative economic development, and expanding city services. Come discover why Jackson is the perfect place to build your future.

Curious to learn more about Jackson? Check out their community page below!

The City of Jackson, with its affordable living, excellent schools, and tenacious local leadership, is a desirable place for professionals and families alike. 

Jackson

Build Your Home in Jackson,  MI – Down Payment Assistance for New Build

If applicable: $25,000 in Down-Payment Assistance through the 100 Homes Program (Must qualify for the 100 Homes program to get this incentive)

1 Year Ella Sharp Park Golf Course Membership

1 month household YMCA membership (plus 5 class punch card for any adult)

12 Free Community Events at the Chamber of Commerce

Breakfast with the City Manager and Staff

Connections to Non Profit Organization - People for the Parks & Trails

Connections to Jackson Public Schools Volunteer Opportunities

Make Your Move to Black River Falls and Get More From Remote Work

If you’re looking for a place where your remote career can thrive alongside a more active, outdoors focused lifestyle, Black River Falls offers the space, support, and incentives to make it happen.

, with 50% paid after you establish residency and the remaining 50% after your first year. It’s a meaningful investment in helping you transition, settle in, and become part of the community.

Enjoy Recreation Built Into Your New Lifestyle

Your incentive package is designed to help you experience what locals love most about living here. You’ll receive a 

one year family membership to the Lunda Community Center

, offering fitness facilities, indoor tracks, and space to stay active year round.

annual family pass to the Hoffman Aquatic Center

, giving you direct access to hiking trails, lakes, beaches, and some of the clearest water in the state.

In Black River Falls, nature isn’t something you plan around, it’s part of your everyday life. Spend your lunch break walking a quiet trail, your evenings on the water, or your weekends exploring forests, parks, and local events. With a slower pace, friendly atmosphere, and easy access to outdoor recreation, it’s a place where remote work feels more balanced and rewarding.

Learn more below about relocating to Black River Falls and starting your next chapter here.

Build your remote career while embracing the natural beauty of Black River Falls, where scenic forests, clear lakes, and winding rivers create endless opportunities for hiking, paddling, and year-round outdoor adventure, all within a welcoming and connected community.

Black River Falls

Live & Work Remote in Black River Falls

1-year family membership to Lunda Community Center

Punch Card for 18-hole rounds of golf at Skyline Golf Course

Annual family pass to the Hoffman Aquatic Center

Live, Work Local, and Belong in Eau Claire

Ready to find a career somewhere that offers more connection, more balance, and more opportunity?

Work locally and feel truly connected in Eau Claire — a creative, welcoming community where career growth, outdoor adventure, and meaningful connections come together.

125 Programs

New Program Updates