Do you love year-round outdoor adventures, from colossal waterfalls to the awe-inspiring Northern Lights? Do you relish in diverse cultural experiences including hundreds of art galleries, live music and theater? Do you welcome an overall lower cost of living than the national average?

If the answer was yes to any of the above, the time to explore Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is now. Offering each of these features — and more — this region is home to an amazing quality of life for thrill seekers and families alike.

Marquette

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. Learn more about the community by connecting with a community champion.

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. Keep us posted on your progress. And if you need a hand, we’re here to connect you with helpful resources.

 or connect with the program owner about receiving your program benefits.

Build Your Career, Belong in Wayne County

"Since moving to Richmond, Indiana, we’ve felt nothing but welcome. We love exploring everything the city offers — shopping at the farmers market, discovering new farm stands, dancing to live music at the orchard, cooling off at splash pads, joining in Depot events, and enjoying fireworks at Glen Miller Park and the Wayne County Fair."


– Ashleigh D., recent Wayne County mover

Welcome to Wayne County, Indiana, a place where career opportunity meets small-town warmth, and where your future can truly take root. With the 

 program, we’re helping job seekers like you find more than just a paycheck, we’re helping you build a life.

Wayne County is more than a place—it’s a community on the rise. Nestled along the Ohio border and within reach of major metros like Indianapolis, Dayton, and Cincinnati, Richmond and its neighboring towns offer:

 in manufacturing, healthcare, education, and community services

 with pathways to homeownership that won’t break your budget

, from historic architecture and museums to local theaters and arts events

, including parks, rivers, and trails perfect for hiking, biking, and family fun

 where neighbors know your name and welcome you with open arms

Here, you don’t just work—you belong.

 — Receive financial support to make your move to Wayne County stress-free and rewarding

 — Connect with local partners who help you find housing, navigate schools, and settle in quickly

 — Meet employers, civic leaders, and neighbors eager to welcome you into the Wayne County family

 — Kick off your journey with local goodies, insider tips, and resources to help you feel right at home

Wayne County’s economy reflects both its manufacturing legacy and its forward-looking workforce:

Manufacturing is Wayne County’s backbone, with major employers producing automotive components, cables, and plastics. Companies like Belden, Primex Plastics, TBK America, and Osborn International offer both skilled and entry level roles in engineering, production, and quality operations.

Wayne County’s growing food production sector includes Hills Pet Nutrition and SugarCreek Packing Co., providing steady roles in operations, packaging, maintenance, and management.

As a regional medical hub, Wayne County is home to Reid Health, Centerstone, and Friends Fellowship Community, creating opportunities in nursing, administration, counseling, and senior care.

Transportation, Distribution & Logistics: 

With easy access to I-70, the county attracts logistics and warehousing operations, supporting distribution roles and supply-chain management careers across the region.

Wayne County is an education center for east-central Indiana, anchored by Indiana University East, Ivy Tech Community College, and Richmond Community Schools, offering roles in teaching, student services, and administration.

We know searching for a job can be intimidating and overwhelming. We've created an Employment Guide to help. Explore our recommended job board, industries, employers, and training opportunities in the area.

: Submit your application to the Choose Wayne County program

: Get matched with local job resources and employers

: Once you secure a job, confirm your eligibility and relocation details

: Claim your relocation package and start your new life

: Build your career and community in Wayne County—and invite others to join you

Making a move can feel daunting, but you don’t have to figure it out alone. Kristal and her team are here to help you every step of the way, from helping you find local employers to securing housing and settling into your new community. They’ll connect you with resources, introduce you to hiring partners, and make sure your transition to Southern Indiana is smooth, supported, and full of opportunity. Apply today to start the process.

This program is sponsored by Wayne County with support from the Indiana Economic Development Corporation.

Learn more about Wayne County and the communities in it below!

Patricia Motta

Moved to Richmond

Located on the eastern edge of Indiana, Wayne County offers the perfect blend of career opportunity and community charm. Anchored by the historic city of Richmond, the county is known for its strong manufacturing base, healthcare systems, and growing industries that provide a variety of workforce opportunities.Beyond career options, Wayne County boasts a rich cultural and recreational scene. From the scenic Whitewater River Gorge to the rolling countryside, outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, and kayaking. The area is also home to vibrant arts, music, and historic districts, including the famous “Antique Alley,” drawing visitors from across the region.

Richmond

Build Your Career and Belong in Wayne County, Indiana

1 month membership to Forest Hills Country Club

1 year membership to the Wayne County Area Chamber of Commerce

PLUS your choice of one of the following packages:

Arts Package: Richmond Symphony Orchestra season tickets, Richmond Community Theater season tickets, Richmond Art Museum membership 

History Package: Memberships to Joseph Moore Museum, Wayne County Historical Museum, and Model T Museum

Outdoor Recreation Package: Family membership to Cope Environmental Center and Hayes Arboretum, 2 annual memberships to Highland Lake Golf Course

Fitness Package: Family pass to Cordell Community Pool, 2 annual memberships to Family Fitness Works, and 2 carpediam registrations to a running season (8 races per person) with Wayne County Challenge

Ready for a change of pace—without giving up opportunity, connection, or culture? Richmond, Indiana offers the perfect blend of historic charm, natural beauty, and modern amenities, all nestled within a tight-knit, welcoming community. With a strong arts scene, top-notch local colleges, a focus on safety, and a community where your voice matters, it’s easy to see why so many are proud to call Richmond home.

Explore the Perks of Life in Richmond, Indiana

Nestled along the Indiana-Ohio border, Richmond offers a perfect mix of Midwestern charm, rich history, and modern amenities. With affordable living, welcoming neighborhoods, and a strong sense of local pride, it’s a community where opportunity and connection come naturally.From scenic parks and top-rated schools to vibrant arts, local colleges, and year-round events, Richmond makes it easy to feel at home.And with exclusive perks to help you settle in, meet your neighbors, and explore the city, your next chapter starts here:

 Start your new chapter in Richmond with a $5,000 relocation grant—yours to use toward moving expenses, housing, or settling in comfortably in this warm, welcoming community.

Designed to give you a head start on connecting, working, and playing in Richmond, this all-access pass includes:

1-year membership to Main Street Richmond Co-Working Space:

 Work remotely or launch your next big idea in this modern, collaborative space located in the heart of Richmond’s charming downtown, complete with high-speed internet, meeting rooms, and networking opportunities.

1-month membership to Forest Hills Country Club:

 Enjoy access to one of the area’s most beautiful private clubs, featuring an 18-hole golf course, swimming pool, dining, and member events.

1-year membership to the Wayne County Area Chamber of Commerce:

 Plug into Richmond’s business and civic community with exclusive invites to events, leadership development, and access to a regional network of professionals and entrepreneurs.

 Meet local leaders, community connectors, and past relocation participants ready to help you get involved, find your people, and feel like a local in no time.

Richmond Symphony Orchestra Season Tickets:

 Enjoy a year of performances from one of Indiana’s most respected regional orchestras, known for its rich programming and historic venues.

Richmond Community Theater Season Tickets:

 Attend local productions and support community talent at this beloved hometown theater.

 Visit one of the oldest public art museums in the Midwest, featuring an impressive collection of American impressionism and rotating exhibits.

 Discover fascinating exhibits on natural history, science, and local artifacts curated by Earlham College.

Wayne County Historical Museum Membership:

 Step into the past with interactive exhibits highlighting early Indiana life, global culture, and even antique vehicles.

 Explore America’s automotive heritage at this nationally recognized museum, complete with vintage Ford cars and hands-on experiences.

Family Membership to Cope Environmental Center:

 Get closer to nature through trails, eco-education programs, and hands-on sustainability exhibits.

 Explore 466 acres of forests, wetlands, and prairies through trails, bike paths, and family-friendly programming.

2 Annual Memberships to Highland Lake Golf Course:

 Enjoy unlimited rounds at this scenic, public 18-hole course nestled in the Indiana countryside.

 Beat the heat with unlimited access to a local favorite for swimming, splashing, and sun.

2 Annual Memberships to Family Fitness Works:

 Access cardio, weights, group fitness classes, and more at a full-service fitness center focused on health and wellness for all ages.

 and the friendly faces behind the Economic Development Corporation of Wayne County. As proud Richmond locals, they’re here to help you find your footing, from securing a new home to discovering the best local spots, can’t-miss events, and hidden gems that make Richmond so special. With their support, settling in and feeling at home will be easier—and more fun—than you imagined.

From scenic parks and vibrant theaters to a thriving downtown, Richmond offers countless opportunities for families and young children to get involved, explore, and grow. Hear from a young family as they share why they’re excited to raise their kids in Richmond and what makes this community feel like home.

Richmond offers a refreshing alternative to the hustle and bustle of larger cities, without compromising on amenities or experiences:

, admire the historic architecture of Downtown Richmond, and explore the unique shops and antique treasures along 

 (a designated Living Building site), and explore the 

 by foot, bike, or skates (free rentals available!).

 Savor a wide range of dining options, from cozy coffee shops and taprooms to ethnic restaurants and local sweet treats.

 Participate in exciting annual events like 

 (one of the largest high school gyms in the U.S.), or easily access professional sports in nearby Indianapolis and Cincinnati.


This program is sponsored by the City of Richmond with support from the Indiana Economic Development Corporation.

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.

Residents enjoy boating and fishing in the Middlefork Reservoir, hiking the paths at Cope Environmental Center, a location of one of only 30 designated Living Building sites in the world, or exploring the Cardinal Greenway on foot, skates, or with a free bike rental offered at the trailhead. Richmond also boasts a wide variety of dining options from a coffee shop and taproom to casual dining, to ethnic favorites such as Thai and Mexican restaurants.  



Thrive in Richmond

1 year membership to Main Street Richmond co-working space

Explore the Perks of Life in Plainfield, Indiana

Just west of Indianapolis, Plainfield offers small-town warmth with all the conveniences of a growing, vibrant community. Residents enjoy safe neighborhoods, top-rated schools, and a low cost of living paired with easy access to big-city amenities. From strolling the shops and cafés along Main Street to exploring the town’s extensive trail system and scenic parks, there’s always something to enjoy. The Richard A. Carlucci Recreation and Aquatic Center, local festivals, and a thriving business community make it easy to stay active and connected. Add in welcoming neighbors, community pride, and an ideal location, and you’ll quickly see why so many call Plainfield 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 help cover moving costs, home furnishings, or anything else you need to make your transition to Plainfield stress-free.

💪 1-Year Family Membership to the Richard A. Carlucci Recreation & Aquatic Center:

 Enjoy a full year of access for the whole family to this state-of-the-art facility, featuring an indoor aquatic center, fitness equipment, group classes, indoor track, and programs for all ages.

💻 Level Two Coworking Studio Membership for 1 Year:

 Work in style and comfort with a full year of access to Level Two’s modern coworking space, complete with high-speed internet, meeting rooms, networking events, and a creative professional environment.

🎭 2 Tickets to Hendricks Live plus 2 Free Drinks:

 Experience the arts and entertainment scene with two tickets to a performance at Hendricks Live!, Plainfield’s premier cultural venue, and enjoy two complimentary drinks during the show.

🍽 The Prewitt Restaurant & Lounge Gift Card:

 Savor an exceptional dining experience at The Prewitt, a historic theater turned upscale restaurant and lounge, offering chef-inspired dishes in a unique setting.

📖 Visit Hendricks County Travel Guide:

 Get to know your new community with a travel guide filled with insider tips on the best local restaurants, shops, attractions, and events in Plainfield and surrounding Hendricks County.

 and one of Plainfield’s most enthusiastic local guides! She is here to guide you through the community and point out local hotspots, can’t-miss events, and hidden gems, making it a breeze for new movers to dive into Plainfield’s fantastic community.

This program is sponsored by The Town of Plainfield with support from the Indiana Economic Development Corporation.

Discover Plainfield, Indiana — Where Opportunity Meets Community
 With excellent schools, beautiful parks and trails, and a family-friendly atmosphere, Plainfield offers the perfect balance of comfort, connection, and opportunity. Whether you're building a career, raising a family, or simply ready for a fresh start, Plainfield is ready to welcome you home.

Plainfield

Plant Roots in Plainfield

1 year family membership to the Richard A Carlucci Recreation & Aquatic Center

Level Two Coworking Studio membership for 1 year

2 tickets to Hendricks Live! plus 2 free drinks

The Prewitt Restaurant & Lounge Gift Card

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