Life in the Crossroads: Manuel’s Relocation Story from Texas to Terre Haute

For Manuel, a 45-year-old accountant and father, the decision to leave his lifelong home in South Texas wasn’t made lightly. But after catching a segment about MakeMyMove on the Today Show, the idea of relocating to a more affordable community where he could stay connected to family began to take root.

Today, he’s settled into a historic downtown apartment in Terre Haute, Indiana, known as the crossroads of America, living steps away from restaurants, museums and Indiana State University. With the support of MakeMyMove, Manuel has found not just a new city but a new sense of belonging.

The First Step Toward Indiana

Manuel says he first heard about MakeMyMove, from the Today show. “They were talking about MakeMyMove in a segment about people relocating to different states that will pay them to move there. I thought the program sounded pretty interesting.”

Curious, he went to the website and began exploring opportunities. Indiana stood out - not only for its generous relocation offers but also for its proximity to his extended family scattered across Chicago, Missouri and northern Indiana.

A Strategic Choice

When weighing his options, Manuel considered several Indiana cities, and while Terre Haute’s generous cash incentive of $7,500 quickly caught his attention, it wasn’t the only factor.

As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, inclusivity was also important. Terre Haute’s emphasis on being a welcoming place made a difference.

“I’m a gay man. That was one of the reasons I chose this city, as a video on Terre Haute’s MakeMyMove page mentioned its LGBTQIA+ friendly status. They just had their third Pride Festival this September. I wanted to be in an area where I felt included.”

For Manuel, diversity has always been part of his identity, though it looks different in Terre Haute compared to his hometown.

“As a Hispanic, I’m in the minority in this area, coming from an area where I was predominantly surrounded by Hispanic culture. I lived in the Rio Grande Valley in Texas, about 15 minutes from the U.S.-Mexico border, where Hispanics made up about 90% of the population. Moving here got me out of my bubble and I’ve quickly made friends.”

Living in the Heart of Downtown

One of the first things Manuel noticed about Terre Haute was its walkable, historic downtown.

He chose an apartment in the Deming, an eight-story landmark building that offers views of Indiana State University and easy access to some of the city’s best spots.

“Everybody has been so nice here - from the people who manage the building to the residents. Even when you get out of the elevator, people always say, ‘Have a great day.’ I’ve made friends throughout the community and it’s been a very positive environment."

From pizza and Mexican food to cozy sandwich shops, Manuel has already made it a point to explore. He enjoys supporting small, family-owned businesses and introducing himself to restaurant owners.

“The Terminal is one of my favorites. It’s downtown and has all kinds of food. Sometimes there’s a wait, but it’s worth it. My family came to visit and loved it.”

And when it’s time to unwind, Manuel and his new friends sometimes head to the local casino.

“Sometimes we’ll go gambling at the casino, just to have fun.”

With festivals, concerts and new investment flowing into Terre Haute’s core, Manuel feels like he’s part of a downtown on the rise.

“I wanted to be downtown, close to the nightlife, restaurants and museums. It’s a win because I can walk to everything. If I want to grab dinner, go to a local shop, or just get out for fresh air, it’s all right here.”

Staying Close to Family

One of Manuel’s primary motivations was proximity to family.

“Terre Haute is three hours from Chicago, one hour from Indy, and four hours from my sisters in Missouri. So it’s easy for them to visit me and for me to visit them. It felt like the perfect time to move closer as I’m getting older.”

He also has extended family in northern Indiana, adding another layer of connection that makes his new location even more meaningful.

His daughter, currently in graduate school, recently visited with her boyfriend. Together they explored Terre Haute before heading to Chicago for a couple of days. His sisters and their children also visited, enjoying local museums and eateries.

Being within driving distance has turned family gatherings from rare events into regular visits.

Skyline Living Without the Sticker Shock

He praised the city’s affordability, noting that his one-bedroom downtown apartment costs just $770 a month.

“The cost of living is so cheap. I mean, you’re not going to believe it. I pay $770 a month for a one-bedroom, one bathroom here in Terre Haute. You can’t find that anywhere.”

Hoosier Hospitality in Action

Manuel feels deeply welcomed in Terre Haute. He has participated in peaceful rallies, explored civic life and plans to volunteer with local nonprofits like the Pride Center of Terre Haute or United Way.

“I feel like I’m part of the community because I’ve been here a couple of months now and I don’t feel like an outsider. I feel welcomed and that’s really important to me.”

The friendliness he’s encountered confirms what his Indiana relatives had long told him: Hoosiers are some of the nicest people you’ll ever meet.

Looking Forward

Manuel is still adjusting and hasn’t yet decided whether Terre Haute will be his long-term home, but he’s optimistic.

“I haven’t made my decision whether I’m going to stay, it might be based on the winter experience," he jokes. “But so far, I think I picked the perfect city.”

He looks forward to continuing to explore the community and spending more time with his family. Above all, he’s grateful for the chance to step outside his comfort zone and experience life beyond Texas.

“I feel like I’ve been welcomed into the community. The cost of living is affordable, the people are kind and I don’t feel like an outsider.”