When Chad and his wife Heather made the decision to leave central Texas behind, they weren’t just chasing a change of scenery; they were seeking a better life for their growing family. Today, they’re thriving in Noblesville, Indiana, thanks to some research and help from MakeMyMove.

Relocating for Quality of Life and Quality Care

Chad and his wife didn’t move to Indiana on a whim. Their journey began years earlier, when they relocated from the Los Angeles area to Texas to be closer to her family and to gain access to more affordable housing. But as time passed, the dream of homeownership in Texas began to dim under the weight of other concerns, especially when their second child, Asher, was born with cerebral palsy and needed specialized care.

“Texas is just basically one season,” Chad said. “Hot, humid, sticky, it feels like you’re living on the equator most of the year. But it wasn’t just the weather. We were also far away from a children’s hospital and the care we were getting didn’t meet Asher’s needs.”

For a child with complex medical requirements, proximity to reliable care wasn’t optional; it was essential. So, Chad and his wife began researching new locations, taking into account everything from health care access and cost of living to school quality and crime rates. Eventually, the stars began to align around Hamilton County, Indiana.

The Right Fit: Hamilton County and Riley Children’s Health

Asher’s needs became a central part of the family’s relocation strategy. Through a combination of Heather’s research and a long-term plan to eventually live nearer her sister, the couple landed on central Indiana as a top contender and 

Since moving to Noblesville, the family has received outstanding care through the Riley network, including hospital stays, therapies and access to top pediatric specialists. “It’s just been a really positive experience across the board,” Chad said. “We’ve had three hospital stays since arriving and every interaction has been great. We feel supported here.”

In addition to top-tier health care, the family found a welcoming community, a strong local culture and neighborhoods that offered both peace of mind and access to the things that matter most.

Discovering Noblesville and The Power of the Right Place

Initially, the couple was drawn to Carmel, a well-known Indianapolis suburb with a reputation for great schools and beautiful neighborhoods. But their research quickly expanded to include Noblesville, Westfield and other nearby towns in Hamilton County. That’s when Noblesville started to stand out.

“We liked the feel of Noblesville, especially compared to some of the bigger, more congested communities in the area,” Chad said. “Downtown Noblesville has that small-town charm and we love spending time at 

Chad, a senior product manager for a software company, works remotely and appreciates the flexibility his job offers. That freedom helped make the cross-country move possible and it continues to provide day-to-day stability as the family balances work and caregiving.

They initially rented a home on the east side of Noblesville to get their bearings. That gave them time to explore the area, assess neighborhoods and think about where they’d like to eventually buy. “We’re right near the border of Noblesville, Carmel and Westfield and it’s perfect for us,” Chad said. “We’ve made some great friends through church and school and our daughter is about to start second grade here.”

Learn Why Noblesville’s One of America’s Most Welcoming Places

Although they had already begun researching a potential move to Indiana, MakeMyMove offered something invaluable: momentum. “I think my sister-in-law was the one who first sent us the MakeMyMove link,” Chad said. “It gave us that extra nudge to start taking the idea seriously.”

The application and onboarding process was easy and straightforward and the financial incentive helped offset some of the costs associated with the move. For Chad, that mattered not just financially but emotionally.

“It made us feel like the city really wanted us here,” he said. “That was important. Moving across the country is expensive, especially with a family and a child with special needs. But the program made it feel like we weren’t doing it alone.”

Once accepted into the Noblesville program, they were connected with local partners, including the Noblesville Chamber of Commerce, who helped ensure a smooth landing and introduced them to community resources. Along with that support, the relocation package included incentives that helped them start building their new life right away. One that stood out to Chad was the health and wellness stipend, which he’s used to sign up for a local gym and explore recreational activities in the area, something that’s helped his family stay active while meeting new people. “It’s not just about getting someone to move,” he said. “It’s about making sure they can build a life when they get there. The incentive helps, yes, but so does the human side - the support, the outreach, the local connections. That made all the difference.”

Despite being far from both sides of the family, his parents are retired in Montana and Heather’s relatives are still in Texas - the Binghams have found community and connection in Indiana.

“We just had another baby a month ago,” Chad said. “And honestly, even without family nearby, it’s been easier than we expected. The hospital was great. We’ve made some amazing friends. It really does take a village and we’ve started building ours here.”

The couple is now focused on their long-term goals, including purchasing a home in the area. Chad admits he has one slightly superficial wish: a basement. “Texas doesn’t really have them because of the soil,” he said with a laugh. “But I love basements. It’s one of the first things I noticed about homes here in the Midwest.”

They’re also keeping an eye on nearby Westfield, where new developments include the kinds of amenities that Heather likes - including pools, fitness centers and family-friendly community designs. But for now, Noblesville remains home.

“All of our conversations are about where we want to buy here, not if we want to leave,” he said. “We’re planting roots.”

Advice to Others: “You’re Not Alone in This”

Chad knows firsthand how overwhelming a long-distance move can feel. “There are so many moving parts, especially when you're dealing with kids, jobs, schools and health care,” he said. “But for anyone considering it, I’d say don’t overlook the support that programs like MakeMyMove can offer.”

That support, along with careful planning, a remote-friendly career and a commitment to finding the right environment for their children has helped Chad’s family build a new life in Indiana.

Building, Belonging and Becoming Hoosiers

A year after their move, Chad and his family are looking toward the future. They’ve joined the ranks of happy Hoosiers who came for opportunity and stayed for the lifestyle. Their calendar is filling up with school events, local outings and plans to explore more of the Midwest.

As for regrets? Chad can’t name a single one.

“We took a leap of faith,” he said. “And it’s absolutely paid off.”

Discover how Chad and his family relocated from Texas to Noblesville, Indiana with the help of MakeMyMove. Drawn by affordable living, community support, and access to Riley Children’s Health for their son’s care, they found belonging in one of America’s Most Welcoming Places. Learn why Noblesville was the perfect fit for their family and how relocation incentives helped them plant roots.

Noblesville

Better Care, Better Life: What Drove One Family to Noblesville

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Reno County

Hutchinson and Reno County, Kansas Housing Guide

On a summer evening in Noblesville, Indiana, the Henry children race down the sidewalk of their quiet cul-de-sac, their laughter echoing off rows of neatly kept homes. From the backyard deck, LeeTosha and Zachary Henry watch with the easy comfort of parents who know their kids are safe. Beyond the yard, a nature preserve stretches into the distance creating a serene backdrop far removed from the constant hum of their former life in Baltimore.

Two years ago, this was just a vision - today, it’s home. Thanks to research, determination and a timely introduction to MakeMyMove, the relocation program that ultimately brought them here.

The idea began when Zachary’s mother spotted an ad for MakeMyMove. “At first, it was just a conversation starter,” LeeTosha recalled. “But the more we looked into it, the more we realized this could be the right move. Not just geographically but for the kind of life we want to live.”

Zachary, a military veteran, approached the decision with a mission-like focus. He evaluated potential destinations for airport access, economic growth and recreational amenities. “I’ve moved a lot during my time in the military,” he said. “I knew the importance of finding a place where we could not only live but feel like we belong.”

Initially, Bloomington made the shortlist but Noblesville quickly pulled ahead. Its location within easy reach of Chicago, where the couple has family roots was a plus. Similarly, the city’s growth initiatives, including its robust relocation incentive package for remote workers through the MakeMyMove platform, valued at $15,000, were also notable. The offer included a $5,000 relocation grant, a $500 health and wellness stipend, memberships to coworking spaces and local museums, VIP concert tickets, golf passes and even a mover meetup with the mayor.

“When we came to visit, it just felt right,” Zachary said. “It was quieter, friendlier and we could picture our kids growing up here.”

Even with the positives, Zachary admits he had one lingering concern, “As an African American family, I wanted to be sure that we’d feel welcomed and included here,” he said. “I didn’t want my family to move somewhere and feel out of place.”

Those concerns eased quickly once they began connecting with neighbors and community leaders. “People went out of their way to make us feel a part of things,” Zachary said. “It wasn’t just polite, it was genuine. That made all the difference.”

The Henrys toured multiple properties before finding their match, a rambler also known as a ranch-style home with a basement in a newer neighborhood. “We wanted something that worked for us now and in the future,” Zachary explained. “Single-level living was important with a little one and thinking about our knees down the line.”

The backyard quickly became a favorite gathering spot, with its deck, fire pit and unobstructed view of the preserve. “It’s the opposite of what we had before,” LeeTosha said. “In Baltimore City, it was constant noise. Here, we can sit outside and just hear the crickets.”

Noblesville offered more than a slower pace; it provided connection. “It’s a slower lifestyle but it’s not boring,” Zachary said. “There’s always something to do and you don’t feel rushed.”

The Henrys connected early with local leaders, including 

 President and CEO Bob DuBois. “Bob was so supportive,” LeeTosha said. “Noblesville has this entrepreneurial energy and they really value people who want to contribute.”

Find out why Noblesville was named one of 

While they didn’t use every perk in the relocation package, Zachary sees its potential. “If they offered targeted incentives for veterans or small business owners, I think it would make an already great program even stronger,” he noted.

Entrepreneurship has become a defining part of their Indiana story. LeeTosha launched A Butter Me, a spa care line including body butters and scrubs designed for busy moms and women prioritizing self-care. “I wanted to create something that helps women slow down, even for just a few minutes a day,” she said.

Meanwhile, Zachary is working on an AI-powered platform to help veterans transition into civilian life. “It’s personal for us,” he said. “We’ve seen how hard it can be to find the right place after service, and we want to make that process easier.”

For their children, Noblesville has been a place to simply be themselves - running free in the background yard, riding their bicycles, playing with neighbors and exploring local favorites like Conner Prairie and the Indianapolis Zoo. “They wave to everyone,” Zachary said with a smile. “That kind of friendliness is contagious.”

LeeTosha agrees. “The slower pace lets them hold onto their innocence longer,” she said. “In a bigger city, you just don’t get that same sense of safety and community.”

The Henrys are committed to deepening their ties to Noblesville. Zachary envisions hosting a conference to help veterans find communities where they can thrive, blending their professional expertise with a shared passion for service.

“For us, moving here wasn’t just about finding a new house,” Zachary said. “It was about finding a place where we could grow as a family.”

LeeTosha added, “We’ve planted our roots here and we plan to keep growing.”

Discover how the Henry family found community and opportunity in Noblesville, Indiana. Their journey through MakeMyMove’s relocation program led to a new home, entrepreneurial dreams and  $15,000 in relocation incentives in one of America's most welcoming places. 

The Road to Noblesville: One Family’s Search for the Perfect Place to Call Home

When it comes to choosing where to live, why settle for a place that only supports your career? Picture this - trails, lakes, rivers and forests just steps from your front door so no matter the season, you don’t have to wait for a vacation to feel grounded, inspired and truly at home.

The appeal of outdoor living goes beyond scenic beauty—it’s backed by science. A comprehensive review published in 

 analyzed 952 studies on the effects of engaging with natural environments. The results were powerful: 92% showed consistent health benefits, including improved mental well-being in 98% of studies, and better physical and cognitive health in 83% and 75%, respectively. Features like accessible green space, low pollution and opportunities for movement were key to maximizing those benefits.

In short, communities that invest in nature aren’t just creating pretty places - they’re improving quality of life in measurable ways.

A growing number of cities and towns are tapping into a powerful insight: when people have access to both meaningful work and natural surroundings, they’re more likely to stay and contribute to their communities. Through platforms like MakeMyMove, communities across the country are using relocation incentives like cash bonuses, housing support and coworking memberships to attract new residents ready to build a life in places where opportunity and the outdoors go hand in hand.

This strategy is especially resonating with younger generations. According to 

, during the 2010s, 90% of young adult population growth was concentrated in major metros. But since 2020, that trend has flipped: 75% of growth in the 25-to-44 demographic is now happening in cities under 1 million or in rural areas. As 

 contributor Lombard notes, millennials and Gen Z aren't just moving anywhere; they’re choosing communities with standout natural amenities. That means places with access to forests, lakes, trails and year-round recreation are now magnets for younger talent looking to live well without sacrificing their career goals.

The result? A new migration map where affordability, outdoor access and career potential all carry equal weight. From scenic bike rides in Iowa to whitewater rapids in Georgia, the six destinations below aren’t just beautiful - they’re building the future by inviting people to live fully, not just work hard.

 Paddle the quiet backwaters of Lake Monroe at dawn or spend weekends exploring 260 miles of trails in Hoosier National Forest.

Bloomington marries college-town energy with national forest solitude. At 10,750 acres, Lake Monroe is Indiana’s largest inland lake - big enough for sailing regattas, SUP yoga classes and back-cove fishing where you’re more likely to spot a bald eagle than another human. Just south, Hoosier National Forest offers 260 miles of marked trails, yet some of the most rewarding summer moments come from slipping a canoe into the still water at dawn, then grabbing indie-roasted coffee downtown before the workday. Remote professionals will love Bloomington’s work-from-home infrastructure while employers like IU Health, life-science startups and the university itself provide ample on-site career tracks, ideal for couples with mixed work arrangements.

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An ambassador network of locals to help you get connected

 Spend the afternoon biking the scenic 12.6-mile Cedar River Trail.

The Cedar River flows through the heart of the city, and residents enjoy easy access to dozens of parks, nature preserves and public spaces, making it easy to unplug without ever leaving town. Palisades‑Kepler State Park is an 840‑acre escape just east of Cedar Rapids along the Cedar River, where dramatic limestone bluffs, deep ravines and rich hardwood forests create a scenic backdrop for hiking, fishing, picnicking and camping.

The Cedar Rapids Parks & Recreation Department oversees more than 4,100 acres of green space across 106 named parks, along with four municipal golf courses, six swimming pools, splash pads, pavilions, historic sites, sports complexes and more. With more than 1,500 recreational programs hosted annually, Cedar Rapids is an ideal destination for people who want to stay active, engaged and close to nature.

Build Your Future in Greater Cedar Rapids

 Hike the rare inland dunes at Sand Hills State Park, one of the few places in Kansas where shifting terrain meets prairie wildlife.

Kansas might be known for wheat fields, yet Hutchinson serves up an unexpectedly lush menu of dunes, prairie and wetlands. Dillon Nature Center’s five distinct loop trails—ranging from pond-lined strolls to oak-savanna hikes—sit just minutes from downtown cafés, so you can kayak at sunrise and be at your desk by nine. A few miles north, Sand Hills State Park protects 1,100 acres of shifting dunes threaded with equestrian and hiking tracks, a rare landform this far from the coast. Hutchinson’s MakeMyMove program welcomes both remote and on-site hires, appealing to aerospace workers at the nearby Cosmosphere as well as web developers who only need strong Wi-Fi (and maybe a good bike trail) to thrive.

Down payment support for homebuyers moving to Reno County

 Float, fish, or paddle on the Ocmulgee River Blueway, a 50+ mile stretch of scenic waterway running right through the heart of Macon.

Macon is a city where nature, music and opportunity all harmonize. Urban green spaces like Amerson River Park connect residents to walking trails, river access and wide-open views without leaving town. The Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park offers more than 700 acres of preserved woodlands and historical landscapes in Macon-Bibb County.

3-month coworking membership at The Office

Discover 6 nature-rich communities offering relocation incentives, affordable living and outdoor adventure year-round. Build your life where nature and opportunity meet.

Benton Harbor

Bloomington

Cedar Rapids

Hutchinson

Macon

Prestonsburg

Vevay

Switzerland County

Eastern

Macon County

Build Your Life, Not Just Your Resume: Six Communities Where Nature Takes Center Stage

When Chris and his wife Cassie relocated to Westfield, Indiana, they were reshaping their daily lives around the things that mattered most: family, community, and their children’s futures.

Chris and Cassie weren’t strangers to Indiana. Chris had grown up in 

, and while the couple had spent the past decade living in Washington, D.C. and then Cincinnati, they’d always kept one eye on the Indianapolis area -especially Carmel, Fishers, and Westfield.

“We knew we were ready to move back,” Chris said. “And when my father-in-law sent us the MakeMyMove link, it gave us a little extra push and peace of mind. We were already looking in this area, but the incentive helped us feel supported and welcomed back,” he said.

Their home search was thorough - eight or nine houses, three or four bids. But it was the Centennial neighborhood in Westfield that finally checked all the boxes. Cassie fell in love with the house and the neighborhood’s atmosphere: a pond, children riding bikes, and a quiet street with families chatting on evening walks.

“We were standing in the driveway, and she just looked at me and said, ‘This is it,’” Chris recalled.

For Chris, the decision to return to Westfield felt full circle. The town had changed in the years since he left it’s growing rapidly, like its neighboring cities, Carmel and Fishers but it still felt familiar. More importantly, it was close to the people who mattered most.

“We’re on the southern edge of Westfield, just minutes from our families,” he said. “That’s made a huge difference.”

Cassie’s background in special education gave the couple unique insight into what kind of support their son Kendrick would need. And Westfield checked all the boxes.

“We’ve always been a public school family,” Chris said. “We wanted somewhere that offered the resources and inclusion Kendrick would need to succeed and where our younger son Sebastian could thrive too.”

What ultimately tipped the scales was Westfield’s blend of academic strength and geographic closeness to loved ones. After years of living elsewhere, they weren’t just moving back, they were choosing to build something lasting in a place that felt like home.

For Chris, who works remotely, the move didn’t bring dramatic changes to his work life but it reshaped everything else.

“The biggest change is how often we see our family now,” he said. “The grandmothers come by to help with unpacking or just hang out with the kids. We’re not coordinating big weekend trips anymore. It’s just easier.”

That ease has translated to the kids, too. While relocating can be tough on children, especially those with additional needs, Chris said the transition went smoother than expected.

“Kendrick has really settled in,” he shared. “He likes his room, and having his grandparents nearby brings a sense of comfort. And Sebastian? He’s already made friends at the neighborhood pool.”

The family is starting to build new routines from casual visits with cousins to frequent dips in the pool that make their new house feel like home.



Rediscovering Central Indiana with a Local’s Eye

Though Chris grew up in Hamilton County, a decade away gave him a fresh perspective on how much the area has grown. And unlike the sprawl and congestion of D.C., he finds Westfield and nearby Carmel striking a balance between urban amenities and a manageable pace.

“I’ve always appreciated the roundabouts in Carmel,” he joked. “They actually help with traffic and I find myself appreciating the small conveniences more now that we’re back.”

Though they’re only recently resettled, Chris and Cassie already have a growing list of Indiana attractions to explore. From family-friendly spots like the 

 to local flea markets, distilleries, and the Bottleworks District, they’re excited to rediscover the area with fresh eyes.

“Noblesville’s downtown is on our list too,” he added. “It’s been fun to ask friends for suggestions and just start checking things off.”

Learn Why Noblesville Was Named One of America’s Most Welcoming Places

One of their favorite early outings was a dinner with friends at Rick’s Boatyard Cafe, a waterfront restaurant in Indianapolis with scenic views of Eagle Creek Reservoir.

“It was one of those summer nights where everything just feels right,” Chris said. “We’re still exploring, but that one’s going on the favorites list.”

They were also finally able to join the long-running “alphabet supper club,” a rotating dinner group with friends where each host picks a restaurant based on a letter of the alphabet.

“We’d been liking all their Instagram posts from afar and stewing with jealousy,” Chris joked. “Now we’re part of it.”

They’re also planning to make the most of Indiana’s seasonal activities. Fall festivals, winter lights, summer concerts - it’s all part of the reason they came back.

After spending years in larger metro areas, including Washington, D.C., Chris says the return to Indiana has offered a more sustainable pace of life, with all the essentials and none of the burnout.

“D.C. had a lot to offer, but it was just go-go-go,” he said. “Here, it’s more balanced. It feels like a place where families can thrive.”

Compared to coastal cities like Boston or San Francisco, Chris says the cost of living in Indiana has been a major plus.

“You can get more house, more yard, more community for a lot less,” he said. “That’s not something you take for granted when you’re raising kids.”

Even though Chris and Cassie were already considering a move back, the MakeMyMove program helped reinforce their decision and provided practical support throughout the process.

“It wasn’t just the financial incentive, though that helped,” Chris said. “It was knowing there was a team on the other side who wanted us here.”

He appreciated the ease of applying and the responsiveness of the MakeMyMove team. From eligibility to onboarding, everything was clearly laid out and easy to navigate.

“They made the process feel human,” he said. “Not transactional.”

As they continue settling in, Chris and his family are already making plans not just for the next few months, but for the years to come. They’re building routines, exploring the region, and deepening connections with their community.

“There’s still so much to see and do,” he said. “But we already feel like we’re home.”

They’re also sharing their experience with others, especially friends and family who are starting to feel the crunch of higher costs and longer commutes in other cities.

“I’ve told a few people about the MakeMyMove program,” Chris said. “It’s a good reminder that you can build a great life somewhere affordable, where your support system is close, and where your quality of life really improves.”

For Chris and his family, that place turned out to be Westfield, Indiana.

After years in the D.C. area and Cincinnati - Chris and his family found a more connected, affordable life in Westfield, Indiana thanks to MakeMyMove's Indy Region relocation program. Discover how community, schools, and proximity to loved ones helped them build a stronger village.

Westfield

Chris and His Family Find a Fresh Start and a Stronger Village in Westfield, Indiana

When Jayne Garver and her boyfriend John packed up their lives in Illinois, they weren’t just relocating—they were carving out space for a long-held dream. Through the MakeMyMove program, they found more than a change of scenery. In rural Indiana, they discovered affordable living, a warm and welcoming community, and the chance to finally open their own restaurant.

Their journey began, like many, with a casual scroll through Facebook.

“We saw an ad for MakeMyMove and were intrigued,” Jayne recalled. “We’d been thinking about making a move for a while—something slower paced and more affordable. This felt like a sign.”

That moment of curiosity sparked a journey that would eventually take them to White County, Indiana—home to scenic drives, peaceful farmland, and the launching point of their new venture, 

Jayne and John had spent years in a densely populated suburb outside of Chicago. While the city’s culinary scene offered incredible opportunities, the lifestyle came with a high price—both financially and emotionally. The cost of living was steep, traffic was relentless, and space was hard to come by.

“Groceries were expensive, property taxes were high, and we were always surrounded by noise,” Jayne said. “It got to a point where we realized we don’t have to live like this.”

They began researching their options and quickly realized that Indiana checked several boxes, including affordability and the opportunity to live on more land. Though it had been several years since Jayne had visited the area when she went to Indiana Beach, an amusement park from the 1920s known for its nostalgic boardwalk, roller coasters and riverboat trips on Lake Shafer, they knew little else about White County but the region’s combination of serenity and outdoor appeal caught their attention.

Jayne applied to the MakeMyMove program and was surprised by how easy the process was.

“Within a week, we were talking to people in the area and getting connected to realtors,” Jayne said. “Debbie Conover from 

 was incredibly helpful. She introduced us to a realtor who had also relocated through the program. It made everything feel so personal.”

Soon after, the couple found a rural property on two and a half acres in Monticello. It was exactly the kind of space they had dreamed about - peaceful, private and perfect for starting fresh.

While settling into their new home, Jayne and John wasted no time getting to work on their long-standing vision—opening a chef-driven modern diner with heart, soul and serious flavor.

John, a professional chef with more than 20 years of experience in Chicago kitchens, had long wanted to open his own restaurant. The concept for Flavor Country Urban Diner had been simmering for years, and now, in downtown Lafayette, it was finally coming to life.

“This isn’t your average diner,” John says. “It’s a celebration of flavors from all over the country. Every dish has a story.”

The menu features iconic sandwiches inspired by regional favorites – think ‘The Horseshoe’ (Springfield, IL), ‘Fried Onion Burger’ (El Reno, OK) and Chicago-style Italian beef—alongside inventive appetizers and elevated comfort food. They’ve also put a creative spin on classic diner staples, creating a space that’s both nostalgic and fresh.

Located just across from the courthouse and close to Purdue University, the restaurant is poised to become a local favorite for students, professionals, and families alike.

“Lafayette is one of the fastest-growing cities in Indiana,” Jayne said. “We’re excited to be part of that momentum.”

While launching a new business is a full-time endeavor, Jayne and John have made time to get involved in their new community. Jayne joined local social groups like Monticello Delts, supported fundraisers, and they’ve became regulars at the area’s farmer’s market. They’re also looking forward to exploring the local rivers and trails, something they never had time—or space—to do before.

“We’re planning to get a canoe or raft soon,” John says. “There’s something really peaceful about the idea of floating down a quiet river.”

That connection to nature is part of what’s made the transition feel so refreshing. Jayne says that while she expected to find more affordable housing in Indiana, she hadn’t anticipated how welcoming and friendly people would be.

“Everyone has been so supportive—restaurant owners, neighbors, local business leaders,” she said. “People here care. It’s not just a place to live; it’s a place to belong.”

Although the restaurant is their primary focus right now, Jayne and John are already thinking beyond the diner. With the space and affordability they now enjoy, they’re exploring the idea of investing in local real estate—possibly a vacation rental or another business venture once Flavor Country is more established.

“We finally feel like we have the freedom to dream bigger,” Jayne said. “In Illinois, it felt like we were constantly trying to keep up. Here, we’re building toward something real and lasting.”

Their move has also inspired them to reflect on how programs like MakeMyMove can reshape communities—not just for new arrivals, but for longtime residents as well.

“By bringing in remote workers and entrepreneurs like us, small towns can boost their economies, support local businesses, and fill gaps in the population,” Jayne said. “It’s about creating a future—for everyone.”

For Jayne and John, the decision to relocate wasn’t just about finding a new place to live. It was about creating a new life—one where they could live more intentionally, support a community, and finally bring their culinary vision to life.

“MakeMyMove gave us a path forward,” Jayne said. “We’re living proof that these programs work—and that they can make a real difference.”

From the quiet roads around their country home to the pedestrian-filled streets of Lafayette, the couple is settling into a life that finally feels like their own. And with Flavor Country Urban Diner recently opening its doors, they’re not just serving food—they’re serving possibility.

“There’s something really beautiful about starting over on your own terms,” Jayne said. “This move gave us that. And we’re just getting started.”

Discover how a couple left the Chicago area for a small town in Indiana and were able to purchase home and open Flavor Country Urban Diner. Learn how MakeMyMove helped them turn their dream into reality—and build a new life rooted in affordability, community, and culinary passion.

Lafayette

White County

Monticello

Serving Up Dreams: How One Couple Turned a Move Into a Culinary Mission

When Tatiana relocated to Muncie, Indiana, she wasn’t just moving to a new city—she was rebuilding her life. Through MakeMyMove, she found more than housing support and a fresh start. She found peace, purpose, and the freedom to create a life on her terms.

Discover how a remote worker relocated to Muncie, Indiana through MakeMyMove and found affordability, community, and creative opportunity. Learn how Muncie is helping newcomers thrive and build lasting roots.

Relocation Trends & Tips for Remote and On-Site Workers on the Move

Better Care, Better Life: What Drove One Family to Noblesville

Hutchinson and Reno County, Kansas Housing Guide

Recent Articles

The Road to Noblesville: One Family’s Search for the Perfect Place to Call Home

Build Your Life, Not Just Your Resume: Six Communities Where Nature Takes Center Stage

Chris and His Family Find a Fresh Start and a Stronger Village in Westfield, Indiana

Serving Up Dreams: How One Couple Turned a Move Into a Culinary Mission

A Life Reclaimed: How One Mover Found Safety, Community, and Creative Freedom in Muncie, Indiana

A Place to Belong: How Jasper, Indiana, Gave One Family a Fresh Start

Opportunity on the Water: Meet the Southwest Michigan Counties Redefining Lakeside Living

Home, Reinvented: How Affordability and Incentives Are Rewriting the American Dream

A New Life and Love in Richmond, Indiana: Kelley's Relocation Story

Switzerland County, IN Housing Guide

From Homeless to Homeowner: How Ray and His Family Built a New Life in Muncie

Best Places That Pay Recent Grads to Move in 2025

From Freeways to Front Porches: How Matthew Found Freedom (and a New Community) in Bloomington

Upgrade Your Life (Not Your Bills): Where $75K Feels Like More

Plainfield, IN Housing Guide

How to Move to Arkansas for Remote Work

Living Well for Less: 10 Affordable Alternatives to America’s Expensive Metros

Finding Community and Creativity in Noblesville: How AJ's Move Sparked a New Chapter