Places That Will Pay You to Move There in 2026

A New Era of Choosing Where and How You Want to Live

Over the past few years, Americans have redefined what it means to build a life and a career. With remote and hybrid work cemented into the mainstream and more communities actively looking to recruit in-person talent to fill gaps in industries such as healthcare, manufacturing and education - professionals have more freedom than ever to choose the place that fits their lifestyle, values and goals.

Recognizing this shift, cities, regions and states are offering compelling incentive packages to attract new residents. These programs go far beyond cash: they’re investing in people, revitalizing downtowns, strengthening local economies and creating thriving communities where newcomers can truly put down roots.

Whether you're a remote worker, a hybrid employee, a healthcare professional, a teacher, an entrepreneur, or someone simply dreaming of a change of pace, 2026 is shaping up to provide more opportunities than ever to get paid to move somewhere where you can build a life that better supports your professional and personal goals.

Why More People Are Moving in 2026

The motivations driving relocations today look different from those in the early 2020s. It’s no longer just about escaping big-city costs; it's about pursuing a life that feels more grounded, affordable and connected.

Here’s what’s shaping the “Get Paid to Move” movement in 2026:

Quality of Life is More Important Than Ever

People want space, nature and the ability to spend time doing what interests them, not commuting for hours or paying rent that eats half their income.

Remote & Hybrid Work Are Here to Stay

Workplace flexibility allows people to choose community before commute.

Local Economies Need Talent

Communities across the country are investing in talent attraction to address shortages in education, healthcare, tech and manufacturing.

Return Migration Is Surging

More movers are heading back to their hometown or where they spent their college years, wanting to be near family or go back to the communities that hold a special place in their hearts.

Incentive Programs Focused on Movers' Needs

While most relocation programs include cash as part of their package, they also include incentives that support creating connections, homeownership and family-friendly amenities, such as: co-working memberships, childcare discounts, housing assistance, local experiences and memberships to professional organizations for networking.

“In Austin, we were in a small house and couldn’t really move up,” Ken said. “Here, our real estate dollars go so much further. We finally have room to breathe.” -Ken Sharp, Noblesville mover

How Talent-Attraction Programs Have Evolved

A lot has changed since early remote-work relocation programs hit the national spotlight. Incentives in 2026 look more diverse, more strategic and far more tailored to the needs of both movers and communities.

What’s new:

Programs for in-person roles - especially in fields such as teaching, nursing, advanced manufacturing, public safety and engineering

Homeownership support - includes incentives such as grants for first-time homebuyers, tax incentives, and free land.

Entrepreneur and tech fellowship programs - support startups and future founders

Return-home programs - specifically recruiting alumni or former residents

MakeMyMove has become the nation’s leading marketplace for all these program types, helping thousands of professionals relocate each year.

Learn how James Gaudio relocated to the Jacksonville Region through their in-person relocation program.

Regions Offering Relocation Incentives in 2026

Several regions have embraced large-scale talent-attraction programs. While incentives vary, many places will pay you to move, especially if you’re contributing to the local workforce or community.

Here are a few examples of the kinds of programs available across the country today:

Midwest Communities

Areas in Michigan, Indiana and Illinois continue to offer incentives like cash for relocation, community perks like coworking memberships, broadband support, or local experiences.

Apply to States in the Midwest Here

Southern States

States like Arkansas, Georgia, and Kentucky have continued to refine their relocation incentives, offering cash, outdoor recreation perks and community onboarding to help movers integrate quickly.

Apply to States in the South Here

The Great Plains

Places in Kansas, Oklahoma and Iowa are adding a growing list of communities where movers can take advantage of incentives such as housing assistance, membership to local organizations and creative perks like free eggs for a year.

Apply to States in the Great Plains Here

Learn More about States that Pay You to Move

Cities and Towns Offer a Variety of Incentive Packages in 2026

Cities of all sizes are offering some of the most compelling relocation packages. These programs typically include a mix of:

Examples of relocation program types in 2026:

Remote Worker Relocation Programs

Communities that want to grow their population and attract working professionals who can live anywhere.

Apply to Remote Worker Relocation Programs

In-Person Workforce Relocation Programs

Several communities now offer incentives for professionals in:

Apply to In-Person Workforce Relocation Programs

These programs help fill vital roles in communities while giving movers the opportunity to build their careers.

What You Should Know About Relocation Programs in 2026

Every program is unique but most include eligibility requirements. Before applying, consider:

Your job type

Some programs require remote flexibility, while others require taking an in-person role within the community.

Income or employment requirements

Often required for most incentive programs.

Length of stay commitments

Programs may require one to three years of residency.

Housing availability and cost

Many movers choose communities for affordability and space.

Schools and education quality

A key consideration for families deciding between programs.

Lifestyle and amenities

Consider what you want when it comes to recreation, dining options, coworking facilities, culture and proximity to loved ones.

Broadband & technology

While important for remote workers, in-person workers also need to make sure they have access to a reliable internet provider to support their day-to-day technology needs.

If you're unsure which place fits best, a MakeMyMove Mover Guide can talk you through the options.

Why These Incentives Exist and Why They’re Growing

In a time when many small and mid-sized cities are looking for ways to secure their future, talent attraction has become one of the most powerful tools available.

When new residents move in, they give back to their new community by:

In a time when many small and mid-sized cities are looking to secure their long-term future, talent attraction has become one of the most powerful tools available.

Find out how Thea is making an impact in Columbus, GA, just a few months after her relocation.

How to Find Places That Will Pay You to Move in 2026

Looking for a fresh start? Want more space, a better cost of living, or a career opportunity that feels meaningful?

MakeMyMove can help you find a relocation program that is right for you. When you create an account on the MakeMyMove Platform, you’ll have access to: