After nearly two decades in Virginia Beach, Thea and her boyfriend, Daniel, made the decision to move back to Columbus, Georgia, through the MakeMyMove program.

Her story, though, begins long before she hit the “apply now’ button. Thea grew up in Columbus, graduating from Hardaway High School before attending Columbus State University, where she began building the foundation for her career. Years later, she would complete her degree at Regent University in Virginia Beach while working full-time, carving out a professional path that would take her up and down the East Coast.

Now, Thea and Daniel live just a few miles from where her journey began. “It’s surreal,” she said. “I drive past places I hung out at as a teenager, but now it’s where we’re constructing our adult life. It’s comforting and exciting at the same time.”

That blend of familiarity and renewal of past and present defines Thea’s journey. What began as a quiet longing to return home became a full-circle story of connection and rediscovery in the community that always felt like home.

Thea’s journey back to Columbus started in an unexpected way - during an ordinary evening at a local nail salon.

“I typically never watch the news,” she said with a laugh. “Unless it’s a positive story.”

That night, as she was getting a manicure, a segment aired about a program that helps remote workers relocate to cities eager to attract new talent and boost local economies.

“They were talking about remote workers helping communities grow and I was intrigued,” Thea recalled. “I went home that night, Googled the program and when I saw Columbus listed, I was so surprised and excited. Moving back home had already been on my mind.”

As National Market Impact Manager at Atlantic Bay Mortgage Group, Thea oversees operations across 17 states and travels frequently but her role allows her to live anywhere. “It just made sense,” she said. “Once I saw that Columbus was part of the program, all the stars started to align.”

Before that fateful news segment, Thea had spent nearly 20 years away from home. Her career first took her from Columbus to Savannah and then to Virginia Beach, where she built her professional life and earned her degree.

“I blinked and 19 and a half years had passed,” she said.

When she applied to Columbus’s relocation program on the MakeMyMove platform, she wasn’t sure what to expect. “At first, I didn’t think I’d hear back,” she admitted. “I thought it might be one of those things that’s too good to be true.”

A few months later, she received an email from Kylie Grilla, project manager for 

, letting her know her application had advanced to the next phase.

“That’s when I knew everything was falling into place exactly how it was supposed to.”

For years, Thea had been casually browsing real estate listings in both Virginia Beach and Georgia, waiting for the right home and the right moment to appear. That moment came unexpectedly last fall, following a profound loss.

Her beloved dog, who had been by her side for nearly 19 years, passed away. “She meant everything to us,” Thea said quietly. “We built our lives around her. After she was gone, I just couldn’t be in Virginia anymore. I needed to get away for a while so I could be near my mom and sister to grieve, to heal and to start over.”

Soon after, Thea and Daniel packed up and drove to Georgia, seeking the familiarity of home. In the evenings, she found herself scrolling through local home listings, at first just to distract herself, but one property stopped her in her tracks.

“I saw this brick ranch in an older, established neighborhood in the same area where I went to high school,” she recalled. “I told Daniel, ‘Let’s just go look.’”

The house needed a few updates but it had character. “It just felt good,” she said. “It felt like love still lived there.”

Today, their home has become a reflection of renewal and gratitude. “It’s been so healing,” Thea said. “We walk the same streets I grew up on, but now we’re building something new together.”

Finding Connection Through the Mover Community

For Thea, one of the most rewarding aspects of MakeMyMove has been the network of fellow movers she’s met since arriving back in Georgia.

“I’ve gone to almost every event including coffee meetups, our meeting with the mayor and even a rafting trip,” she said. “The rafting adventure was hilarious because the guide actually tricked us into tipping the boat! He told us, ‘When I say go left, go left!’ Well, that was his way of making sure we’d all fall out. Suddenly, everyone’s in the water, my boyfriend’s under the boat, Kylie’s floating away - it was chaos but in the best way. We were all laughing about it later.”

Thea credits these events with helping her form genuine friendships and professional connections. “It’s been such a great mix, networking with business leaders while also getting to bond personally,” she said. “It’s made a huge difference in feeling at home again.”

For Daniel, the move has been equally transformative. A mortgage banker also with Atlantic Bay, he’s using the relocation as a chance to expand his reach in Georgia and the surrounding states.

“This was the first time he’d ever moved away,” Thea said. “He was born in Florida and spent his whole life in Virginia Beach, so it was a big change. But he’s been amazing and he’s meeting new people every week.”

Thea said having him by her side has made the move even more meaningful. “He was so happy when I got selected for the program. Now we both get to build our network together and he comes to all the mover events.”

Returning home after 20 years brought both nostalgia and a new perspective.

“I’d been back visiting family over the years, so I saw Columbus growing - the Riverwalk expanding, new restaurants opening, local businesses thriving,” Thea said. “But coming back as a professional felt completely different. I was ready to contribute to the city’s growth in a meaningful way.”

Since her return, she’s been busy reconnecting with her community by joining the 

, donating time to the Boys & Girls Club and meeting with local leaders.

“I had a great meeting with the mayor recently,” she shared. “It’s exciting to see the momentum here. I want to help others achieve homeownership and give back to the community that raised me.”

Through her work at Atlantic Bay, Thea has also found ways to merge her passion for service and career. 

“We love to be involved locally,” she said. “Being part of MakeMyMove helped me connect with the Chamber immediately. It gave me a head start on getting involved.”

While much of Thea’s focus is on her career and community involvement, she’s also prioritizing personal balance. “Moving takes a lot,” she admitted. “You blink and months go by. You’re unpacking, working full-time, getting reconnected - it’s a lot to juggle. But we’re finding our rhythm.”

Her goals for the next few years are rooted in both professional and personal growth. “We want to keep growing our business and continue connecting with new people,” she said. “And we’re making up for lost time with family. For years, we couldn’t always come home for holidays. Now we can have Thanksgiving with my mom and sister or take a spontaneous trip to Florida.”

When asked what she’d say to someone considering relocating to Columbus through MakeMyMove, Thea didn’t hesitate.

“Talk to people who’ve gone through it,” she said. “Reach out to Kylie, reach out to me because Google can’t tell you everything. Sometimes you need to hear from someone who’s walked that path.”

She encourages future movers to visit in person and experience the community. “Walk downtown, explore the Riverwalk, talk to locals. That’s when you’ll know if it’s right for you,” she said.

Thea’s own company even extends incentives to fellow movers through MakeMyMove. “We offer closing incentives for anyone buying a home through the program,” she explained. “I love being able to help others make their move, too.”

When reflecting over the past year, Thea smiles at the symmetry of her journey. “It’s funny how life works,” she said. “I started here, built my career elsewhere and now I’m back - utilizing everything I’ve learned along the way to help make a difference in my hometown.”

Her advice to others is simple but powerful:

After nearly two decades away, Thea returned to her hometown of Columbus, Georgia, through the MakeMyMove program - rediscovering community, connection and purpose. From a chance news segment to finding a home just miles from her high school, Thea’s full-circle journey is one of healing, growth, and giving back to the place that raised her.

Columbus

Coming Home to Columbus: Thea’s Full-Circle Move Through MakeMyMove

With its stunning mountain views, vibrant downtown and thriving tech scene, Boulder, Colorado, has long been a poster child for remote-friendly living. But if Boulder’s skyrocketing housing costs or bustling pace give you pause, emerging communities across the U.S. offer similar perks. These towns combine affordability, quality of life and incentives to attract remote workers eager to relocate.

Why Remote Workers Are Relocating in 2025

 in the U.S. surveyed said they would be better off living in a different community from their current one, for remote workers this can become a reality. Many remote professionals are seeking towns and cities that balance affordability, outdoor access and vibrant local cultures. Whether you’re drawn by financial incentives, 

, or lifestyle opportunities - these communities might just be your Boulder 2.0.

Home to the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor offers a vibrant college-town atmosphere with a strong focus on innovation and entrepreneurship. With a plethora of museums, theaters and a walkable downtown area, Ann Arbor provides a stimulating environment for remote workers. Additionally, the city is located near several beautiful lakes, offering ample opportunities for outdoor recreation.

Nestled between the Cascade Mountains and Puget Sound, Bellingham offers a similar formula to Boulder – easy access to epic natural surroundings alongside an innovative economic ecosystem. Bellingham boasts a vibrant downtown with a strong focus on independent businesses, a burgeoning craft beer scene and other cultural attractions to supplement outdoor recreational pursuits like hiking, biking, kayaking and more.

Often compared to Boulder for its progressive atmosphere and natural beauty, Bloomington’s affordability makes it a top contender. Additionally, Bloomington's thriving arts scene and university atmosphere echo Boulder's youthful energy and intellectual stimulation, providing a vibrant environment for remote workers seeking cultural engagement beyond the workday.

Cedar Rapids offers the kind of easygoing lifestyle that feels both grounded and inspiring, like Boulder, without the price tag. Outdoorsy types will love the miles of trails, parks, and nearby rivers, while families appreciate excellent schools and safe neighborhoods where kids can still ride bikes until dusk. Just 30 minutes from Iowa City and the University of Iowa, weekends often consist of Saturday game days, art festivals and live music that keep the community humming.

Fort Wayne has the easy rhythm of a Midwestern city but with the creative pulse of Boulder. Remote workers will find no shortage of inspiring spaces to collaborate, including the Electric Works co-working hub. For those seeking in-person opportunties, the city's diverse industries spanning healthcare, logistics and tech contine to grow. Culturally, Fort Wayne rivals cities twice its size.  The Fort Wayne Museum of Art showcases national and local artists, First Fridays light up the historic Embassy Theatre district to life and families spend weekends at the nationally ranked Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo or any of the 150+green spaces in the area. 

Once known primarily for its legendary music scene, today Macon is a city on the rise, blending Southern charm with modern momentum. Downtown streets pulse with new energy thanks to revitalized historic buildings, locally owned restaurants, and a growing network of professionals who are redefining what it means to live and work in Middle Georgia. The Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park offers miles of trails and a deep connection to the area’s Indigenous heritage, while neighborhoods like Ingleside and North Highland mix walkability and character with an average home price about 81% lower than in Boulder.



Nestled in the Appalachian Mountains, Prestonsburg offers breathtaking landscapes and a deeply rooted sense of community. Known as the “Star City of Eastern Kentucky,” this town combines natural beauty with a growing remote work infrastructure. It’s also only a short drive away from Murray State University.

Located on the North Carolina coast, Wilmington offers beautiful beaches, a historic downtown area and a relaxed Southern charm. The city boasts a growing film industry, a vibrant arts scene and a lower cost of living compared to other coastal towns. Plus, it's a short drive to the Outer Banks for even more exploration.

Additional Benefits for Remote Workers and First-Time Homebuyers

In several of these communities’ relocation incentives and first-time homebuyer programs are available including 

 which offers financial and personalized support for relocating remote workers to communities like Fort Wayne, Prestonsburg and Cedar Rapids. Some communities also offer access to coworking spaces like 

 in Bloomington, networking events and discounts to a variety of community amenities.

Jenifer and her husband James relocated from the Detroit area to Prestonsburg through MakeMyMove. 

"We were living in Clinton Township, Michigan just 30 miles west of Detroit," Jenifer explains. "It was so busy and stressful, with traffic and construction everywhere you looked. The cost of living was skyrocketing too. James adds "Where we used to live everything, you do and everywhere you go, you have to rush to get there. If you don't, you're going to get run over," he says. "And here, it's just so much more relaxed."

Ultimately, the ideal remote work destination depends on your individual preferences. Whether you crave mountain vistas, rural serenity, or a vibrant college town atmosphere, there's a community out there waiting to welcome you. Consider your priorities - access to nature, cultural offerings, cost of living and the overall vibe - to narrow down your search. Look into 

 and leverage first-time homebuyer programs to make your move more affordable.

In 2025, remote work continues to redefine where and how we live. So, pack your laptop, embrace the freedom of location independence and discover your perfect new home in one of these incredible communities.

Discover affordable and vibrant alternatives to Boulder, Colorado, for remote workers in 2025. From outdoor recreation and cultural hotspots to relocation incentives and first-time homebuyer programs, explore eight U.S. communities that combine quality of life, affordability and unique opportunities to craft your dream life.

Ann Arbor

Bellingham

Bloomington

Ellsworth County

Fort Smith

Muskegon County

Prestonsburg

Wilmington

Cedar Rapids

Fort Wayne

Macon

Looking for Boulder 2.0? Remote Workers, These Cities Fit the Bill

For Sarah and Colin, the search for a new place to call home started with two simple goals - finding a community that aligned better with their interests and a more affordable place to start carving out their future. When they discovered Texarkana through the MakeMyMove program, it felt like the perfect fit.

Today, Sarah has settled into her new apartment, while Colin has achieved a longtime dream of purchasing his first home. Together, they’re building a life in Texarkana that combines affordability and opportunity in a community undergoing transformation.

And now, that new life includes something extra special - an engagement.

When Sarah first learned about MakeMyMove, she was intrigued by the idea of a program that could help her relocate to a community that better fit her long-term goals. “I was ready for a change,” she said. “My lease in Longview was coming up, I work from home and I wanted to be somewhere with more opportunity to get involved. Texarkana checked all the boxes.”

Her boyfriend, Colin, was also exploring housing options nearby. What began as Sarah’s curiosity quickly became a joint journey. They both submitted applications to MakeMyMove’s Texarkana relocation program and were notified they were accepted into the program.

“It was a unique timing situation,” Colin said. “It just kind of worked out. She told me about the program and everything just fell into place.”

Unlike many couples who relocate together, Sarah and Colin navigated the program as individuals. Sarah used her $5,000 cash incentive to settle into a new apartment, while Colin applied it towards the purchase of his first home.

“Start to finish, it was pretty smooth,” Sarah said. “You just have to apply on the website and submit your supporting documentation. It’s an easy process and it only took a week or two before we found out we were accepted.”

For Colin an entrepreneur, the chance to buy a home in Texarkana felt like a rare opportunity. “I originally looked at the Atlanta area because my family’s there. But the market was horrible,” he said. “For the price you’re paying, you could go to Texarkana and get a significantly better home for less. When this house became available, it was a no-brainer. I’ve always wanted to buy a home. And it’s my first, so a lot of learning on the go,” he admitted. “There’s always something to do when you’re a homeowner but I’ve enjoyed it. The neighborhood felt right and the support that the program provided made the home-buying process all come together.”

Learn more about why Texarkana was named one of 

Sarah and Colin both had ties to the area. Sarah, a born and raised Texan, had lived in Austin, Dallas and Longview before settling in Texarkana. “I love East Texas. Texarkana is one of those places with incredible untapped potential. You can feel that growth is possible here, and the opportunities are endless; it just takes people willing to get involved.”

Colin echoed her optimism but from a different perspective, as he had visited the community several times in the past. “The cost of living in Longview just kept going up and I found it difficult at times to find things to do. In contrast, Texarkana feels up and coming. There’s a brand-new hospital being built, four new restaurants moving in, and a focus on redeveloping downtown. I’m a food guy, so this was a big draw for me.”

One of the program’s biggest draws for Sarah was the opportunity to get involved locally. “I was able to connect with Brandy Eldridge, who’s part of the 

REDI (Regional Economic Development Inc.) Texarkana program

. She invited me to a board meeting for Meals on Wheels. I recently had my first board meeting with them and I’m really excited,” Sarah shared. “After getting involved with nonprofits, I’d like to get more involved with city government. I’m a little bit of a politics nerd. I really like municipal government because that’s where a lot of the action takes place.”

Colin, an entrepreneur in the insurance appraisal business, also found surprising support. “The program has helped me meet other business owners and people who are trying to grow the community. They’ve been really enthusiastic about young entrepreneurs, which is refreshing.”

He described being impressed by how quickly city leaders responded to concerns. 

“When I first moved here, there was a problem with some landscaping that was causing near-accidents outside my house. I texted Rob Sitterley, President and CEO of AR-TX REDI and within two weeks, the city had fixed it. To see that kind of response time was really reassuring.”

If there’s one shared passion between Sarah and Colin, it’s food.

“There’s a place downtown called Lucille’s that has the best brunch,” Sarah said. “They have the best eggs Benedict in town. We love going there.”

Colin chimed in with his own favorites: “Benchmark is a standout, I’m actually friends with the chef there. Café Lucille, of course and A Taste of India is amazing. That was actually the first time I ever had Indian food and it was great.”

Beyond restaurants, community events have given them ways to connect. They both attended Texarkana’s first annual Pickle Fest. “It ended up being a really cool kind of event,” Sarah said. “I think they had about 15,000 people show up.”

Colin agreed: “The turnout was something to see. Tons of vendors, tons of people. That kind of energy makes you realize how much potential there is here.”

For Sarah, who works in sales in the real estate industry, being a remote worker made the transition seamless. “I work four 10-hour days, so I get one day off a week and it rotates. The move didn’t really impact my schedule at all.”

Colin’s entrepreneurial life also translated smoothly. “Nothing has really changed, which is a good thing. If anything, it’s gotten better. Having a home has given me more structure. I wake up earlier, grab breakfast in town and I feel more productive in the mornings,” he said. “One of my fears was that moving would cause a disruption. But it’s been the opposite.”

Both Sarah and Colin are thinking long-term about building a family in Texarkana.

“I’m really at a point in my life where I’m ready to settle down and focus on family,” Sarah said. “The schools are great here and that was one of the factors in why I moved.”

When Colin was getting settled in, he had an unplanned incident that ensured his new home was safe. “When I was setting up my security system, it accidentally went off and before I could even deactivate it, there was a cop car in my driveway. The response time was less than a minute.”

For Sarah, the future includes deeper community involvement. “

 offered me a spot in their program but my schedule didn’t work this year. They’re saving me a spot for next year and I’m really looking forward to it.”

Colin is focused on business opportunities. “Eventually, I’d love to meet more business-minded people my age. Real estate is something I’m considering. I think there’s an opportunity here with apartments and housing. I also think the city could use more entertainment options for people between the ages of 18 and 30 and I’d love to help with that.”

The couple also recently returned from a cruise where they got engaged and are excited to celebrate this new chapter surrounded by the welcoming community they’ve found in their new home.

Both share a simple piece of advice for others considering applying to Texarkana’s relocation program: go for it!

“Just jump in,” Sarah urged. “ Texarkana’s got a lot of cool things brewing.”

“It feels like the right time,” Colin reflected. “There’s never a ‘perfect time’ to move or buy a home but with MakeMyMove, it all came together.”

Sarah and Colin’s journey to Texarkana is more than a relocation story, it’s the start of a new life together. Through MakeMyMove, they each found the perfect home, deeper community connections and even got engaged along the way. Discover how this East Texas city is sparking new beginnings for couples, entrepreneurs, and changemakers alike.

Texarkana

Love Takes Root in Texarkana: Sarah and Colin’s Move and Engagement - Mark a Bright Beginning

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 

, 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.

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.

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.”

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.”



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.

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.”

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.

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.”

After seeing MakeMyMove featured on the Today Show, Manuel, a 45-year-old accountant from South Texas, relocated to Terre Haute, Indiana where affordability, inclusivity, and small-town charm have given him a new sense of belonging. From his historic downtown apartment to local festivals and new friendships, discover how life in the Crossroads of America helped Manuel build community and connection.

Terre Haute

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

Explore a Wide Range of Career Opportunities Across Southern Indiana

Spanning eight counties — Crawford, Daviess, Dubois, Greene, Lawrence, Martin, Orange, and Washington — Southern Indiana offers a broad and growing job market. From advanced manufacturing and defense near Crane to healthcare, education, and skilled trades in Jasper, Bedford, and beyond, the region provides a variety of stable, good-paying careers — all within reach and backed by communities that make living here rewarding.

Open Roles by County (powered by SimplyHired)

Southern Indiana’s economy is powered by innovation — from national defense to precision manufacturing.

 – A national leader in defense technology, cybersecurity, logistics, and engineering. Thousands of civilian and contractor jobs support critical U.S. defense missions. 

Battery Innovation Center (Greene County)

 – A hub for battery testing and energy research, hiring engineers, lab technicians, and manufacturing specialists. 

 – A leading furniture manufacturer known for craftsmanship and design careers in production, logistics, and corporate operations. 

 – One of the nation’s top cabinet manufacturers, with steady production and skilled trades jobs. 

 – A major employer offering manufacturing, mechanical, and quality assurance roles. 

 – A family-owned furniture company hiring for upholstery, assembly, and warehouse positions. 

 – A design-focused manufacturer offering jobs in woodworking, operations, and logistics. 

From building communities to keeping goods moving, this sector offers stable, hands-on careers.

 – A trusted regional construction company with long-term opportunities in project management, trades, and site operations. 

 – A full-service logistics and transportation firm offering positions in driving, maintenance, dispatch, and administrative support. 

Healthcare and behavioral health providers play a vital role across the region, offering fulfilling work in care, counseling, and administration.

Memorial Hospital and Health Care Center (Jasper)

 – The region’s largest healthcare provider, with roles in nursing, therapy, diagnostics, and administration. 

 – Offers healthcare careers ranging from nursing to operations and patient support. 

IU Health Bedford Hospital (Lawrence County)

 – Provides high-quality care and employment in medical, clinical, and administrative fields. 

Tourism, Hospitality & Outdoor Recreation

Southern Indiana’s natural beauty drives a thriving tourism economy, especially around its parks and resorts.

 – A premier resort employing hundreds in hospitality, culinary arts, spa services, and event management. 

 – Seasonal and year-round opportunities in recreation, guest services, and operations. 

Patoka Lake Marina & Lodging (Orange/Crawford Counties)

 – Roles in guest experience, maintenance, food service, and outdoor recreation management. 

A cornerstone of the region’s economy, with opportunities from production to environmental management.

 – A leading hardwood lumber producer with positions in forestry, sawmill operations, and logistics. 

 – Major poultry processor hiring for operations, maintenance, and food safety roles. 

 – Cement and aggregates producer offering industrial, mechanical, and plant operations careers. 

From powering homes to educating future generations, these employers keep Southern Indiana running strong.

 – Rural electric cooperative providing power and broadband; offers careers in linework, IT, engineering, and customer service. 

 – Focused on workforce development and technical education; employs instructors, staff, and administrators. 

– Consistent opportunities in teaching, administration, and public service roles across all eight counties.

 – Rural district with close-knit teams and strong STEM programs. 

 – Daviess County’s largest district, offering a wide range of certified and support positions. 

 – A top-performing district known for academic excellence and community engagement. 

 – Focused on student achievement and community connection in rural Greene County. 

 – The largest system in the region, centered in Bedford, with openings across grade levels. 

 – Family-focused district offering teaching and administrative roles. 

 – Washington County district with stable employment and a strong local reputation. 

Job Training Programs to Help You Qualify

Because this region spans rural and semi-industrial areas, training programs tend to be regionally offered or via state/regional partnerships:

A statewide initiative providing free training for high-demand fields like healthcare, advanced manufacturing, IT, and construction through approved training providers. 

Apprenticeship & Earn-While-You-Learn Programs

 — Trades, manufacturing maintenance, electrical, HVAC programs in the region or via state workforce agencies. 

Explore top employers and career paths in Southern Indiana. Find $50K+ jobs, training programs, and relocation support near you.

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

Coming Home to Columbus: Thea’s Full-Circle Move Through MakeMyMove

Looking for Boulder 2.0? Remote Workers, These Cities Fit the Bill

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