Southwest Michigan offers something increasingly rare: the chance to build a life with both opportunity and balance. With three distinct counties—Berrien, Cass, and Van Buren—this corner of the state blends natural beauty, affordability, and neighborly spirit in ways that make it especially appealing to professionals, 

 and growing families. Each county has its own unique flavor, and together they form a region that values connection over congestion while providing its residents with an affordable place to live.

Berrien County: Coastal Living with Career Opportunities

Berrien County is perhaps best known for its stunning access to Lake Michigan but it’s more than just a pretty place. Anchored by towns like St. Joseph, Benton Harbor and Buchanan, this county supports a diverse economy that includes manufacturing, healthcare and tourism. Companies like Whirlpool have a long history here, and new businesses are being welcomed into revitalized downtowns and coworking spaces like 

Busy workers will benefit from a strong broadband infrastructure and a variety of cafes to grab a coffee, while residents enjoy live music, art experiences and lakefront festivals. The Box Factory for the Arts in St. Joseph hosts performances, exhibits, and classes. Silver Beach is a beloved family destination, featuring a splash pad and beach access. The Krasl Art Center and annual art fair bring nationally recognized artists to the lakeshore.

Downtown Buchanan is known for its charming streets, live music events, and the weekly farmers market, which showcases regional produce and handmade goods. Families appreciate the area’s library programs, youth sports leagues and proximity to Lake Michigan College, which offers free tuition to qualifying students—a meaningful advantage for long-term planning.

Cass County: Heartfelt Community Bonds and Natural Beauty

Cass County offers a quieter pace without sacrificing quality of life. Located inland from the lakeshore, it’s made up of towns like Dowagiac, Cassopolis, and Edwardsburg. Here, people know their neighbors, and civic pride shows up in restored downtowns, seasonal parades and strong local leadership.

In Dowagiac, amenities include the Dowagiac District Library, community theatre at The Barn Swallow, and local favorite restaurants like Wood Fire Trattoria. The city’s revitalization efforts have brought colorful murals, music nights and public art that enhance walkability and foster a vibrant community atmosphere.

Cassopolis, located on the shores of Diamond Lake, has recently expanded its parks and recreation options, including a lakefront promenade, kayak rentals, and new green space. Dr. T.K. Lawless Park, a designated Dark Sky Park, draws stargazers and outdoor enthusiasts with its hiking trails, mountain biking paths, disc golf and wildlife habitats.

Affordability remains a strong draw—whether you’re looking to become a first-time homeowner or for a quiet place to raise children, Cass County combines value with access to outdoor beauty and community life.

Van Buren County: Agriculture, Innovation and Lake Access

Van Buren County is where agriculture meets adventure. Towns like South Haven, Paw Paw and Hartford offer a mix of lakeside living and agricultural heritage. The county is famous for its blueberries and vineyards, and you’ll find farmers' markets and u-pick farms throughout the growing season.

South Haven’s walkable downtown includes bookstores, coffee shops and restaurants with views of the marina. 

 and public beaches are highlights for both tourists and locals. The Kal-Haven Trail, a 33-mile bike path that runs from South Haven to Kalamazoo, offers scenic cycling and hiking.

Paw Paw, known for its wine scene, hosts annual events like the Wine and Harvest Festival. The village is also home to a popular performing arts center, youth theater and well-maintained parks. Families benefit from a mix of public and charter schools, local sports leagues and access to Van Buren State Park—a wooded beachside retreat with hiking, camping, and birding opportunities.

Hartford is home to the Van Buren Trail State Park and the Hartford Speedway, adding variety to the local recreational landscape. Community events, agricultural fairs and supportive local services make it an ideal spot for those wanting a quieter lifestyle while still having access to a variety of activites.

Places That Pay You to Move and Resources to Help You Settle In

 program is designed to make relocation smoother and more intentional. It offers personalized community tours, up to $5,000 in down payment assistance for eligible homebuyers, spousal job support, school enrollment help, and even opportunities to meet local leaders over dinner.

It’s not just about moving—it’s about feeling at home.

Southwest Michigan invites you to take a closer look. Whether you’re drawn to the coastlines of Berrien, the calm of Cass, or the bounty of Van Buren, this region has room for you. Find the community that fits your lifestyle and let your next chapter begin.

Discover lakeside living in Southwest Michigan. Explore Berrien, Cass, and Van Buren counties—where affordable housing, relocation incentives and vibrant communities await.

Berrien County

Cass County

Van Buren County

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

If you're dreaming of owning a home but feeling priced out of the market, you’re not alone. With rising housing costs and interest rates, more first-time buyers are looking for alternative paths to affordable homeownership. The good news? A growing number of communities across the U.S. are stepping up with generous housing incentives, through incentives like 

, to help you buy or build your first home.

Whether you're a remote worker seeking a lifestyle change or a new homeowner hoping to stretch your budget, these towns are worth a serious look.

Top Affordable Places That Offer Homebuyer Incentives

 Up to $5,000 in down payment assistance for first-time homebuyers from Discover Southwest Michigan

Must be a first time homebuyer; reside in Berrien, Cass, or Van Buren County for a minimum of one year; purchasing a home in Berrien, Cass, or Van Buren County to serve as your primary residence; and have a job located in Berrien, Cass, or Van Buren County.

Located along the scenic shores of Lake Michigan, Benton Harbor is a revitalizing city in Berrien County offering both natural beauty and practical affordability. Once a booming industrial hub, Benton Harbor is embracing its next chapter with momentum.

The city's Arts District is home to galleries, restaurants, and cultural spaces that draw creatives and entrepreneurs alike. Add to that miles of freshwater shoreline, bike paths, and nearby vineyards, and you’ve got a lifestyle that blends relaxation with opportunity.

The community is investing in its future, with infrastructure upgrades, walkable neighborhoods, and renewed emphasis on housing accessibility. Whether you're seeking your first home or a place where you can grow, Benton Harbor offers a compelling mix of affordability, amenities, and momentum.

Additional MakeMyMove Program Incentives:

Growing investment in downtown revitalization

 Up to $35,000 for new construction, $25,000 base grant + $10,000 bonus for the first five homes in city limits

 To qualify, you must apply before construction begins. Once approved, construction must start within one month. You’ll also need to work with a Republic County bank or coordinate directly through the County’s economic development office.

A Rural Life that’s Anything But Boring

Republic County offers what many are searching for: safety, affordability, space, and a strong sense of belonging—all just a short drive from larger cities like Salina, Manhattan, and Lincoln, NE. Here, you’ll enjoy a “reverse commute” lifestyle: peace and quiet during the week with easy access to urban fun on the weekends.

In Belleville, newcomers can quickly become part of a supportive, experience-rich community. From the adrenaline of the Belleville Highbanks Racetrack to the charm of the Cuba Rock-A-Thon and the holiday magic of Rocky Pond Christmas, everyone is welcome with open arms. Remote workers will appreciate the high-speed internet, two coworking spaces and a variety of local restaurants, making it easy to stay productive and plugged in.

Combined with low construction costs, available land, and small-town warmth, Belleville (and Republic County as a whole) makes the dream of homeownership remarkably accessible.

Up to $1,500 a year for five years to help pay off student loans (if eligible)

Up to $3,000 in Recruitment Incentive Dollars for qualifying positions in the county

100% Kansas state income tax waiver through the 2025 tax year (if eligible)

 5% in down payment assistance and closing costs through Hoosier Homes Plus.

This program is open to both first-time and repeat homebuyers. To qualify, your household income must fall within the county-specific limit of $126,000 or less, and you’ll need a minimum credit score of 640. First-time homebuyers are also required to complete a homebuyer education course. All applicants must work with an approved lender. The program's 5% down payment assistance is based on the purchase price of the home.

With over $1 billion in downtown redevelopment since 2009 fueling a dynamic urban core, Fort Wayne has undergone a transformation. Locals spend weekends enjoying the riverfront Promenade Park, Baker Street Centre’s live music venue, and the Schaab Metals redevelopment with cafés, brewpubs, and e-sports. Bold enhancements continue with new public art, outdoor seating zones, BuskerFest programming, and a major North River Fieldhouse sports complex set to host regional tournaments and community leagues.

For families, Fort Wayne offers an abundance of enriching and affordable entertainment. Highlights include the nationally acclaimed Fort Wayne Zoo—home to 1,000 animals and engaging educational destinations like Science Central and the Foellinger–Freimann Botanical Conservatory. An abundance of accessible recreation including over 120 miles of scenic trails, 86 public parks, numerous playgrounds and splash pads, ensures that children—and parents—always have something engaging to do close to home.

Beyond revitalization and amenities, Fort Wayne stands out as an exceptional place to live. It’s been listed as one of the top 10 cities with the 

 in America. It is served by high-performing school districts like Southwest Allen County Schools, and features a robust public library system. With growing broadband access, modern infrastructure, and ongoing neighborhood grants and streetscape enhancements the city combines small‑town vibes with big‑city opportunity.

One year co-working membership at Electric Works

Special invite to an Onboard Fort Wayne Newcomer Social

One week of groceries from the Urban Street Market

Discover affordable places to live with homebuyer incentives up to $35,000. From Kansas to Michigan, these communities offer relocation cash, tax rebates and a better quality of life.

Mitchell County

Republic County

Hutchinson

Jackson

Graham County

West Memphis

Benton Harbor

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

When Kelley Meadows started dreaming of a life beyond the sweltering Texas heat, she had no idea a simple Facebook ad would be the catalyst for a brand new chapter. Kelley wasn’t just looking for cooler temperatures—she was searching for a community, a fresh start, and a place to call home. Thanks to MakeMyMove, she found all that and more in Richmond, Indiana.

A Search for Sustainability and Belonging

Kelley had known for a while that Texas wasn’t working for her. The extreme heat wasn’t just uncomfortable—it was unbearable. Her health and lifestyle were affected, and even her beloved dog, Moonlight, struggled in the sweltering climate. “My body just doesn’t tolerate 100-degree weather well,” she said.

But beyond the weather, Kelley was craving a more sustainable and accepting environment. She was drawn to the Midwest in part because of its resilience to climate change and its lower risk of natural disasters. "I didn’t want to be moving every few years because of hurricanes, fires, or floods. I wanted a place where I could put down roots," she explained.

Kelley was also looking for a cultural shift. While she appreciated the Southern hospitality that communities like Kileen and Austin provided, she often felt that certain social expectations—particularly around religion—made it harder to fully be herself. As someone who identifies as non-religious, she occasionally found herself in situations that felt like she didn’t fit in. “In the Midwest, people tend to keep their beliefs to themselves,” she said. “I can just be who I am without feeling out of place.”

Inspired by an ad she saw about MakeMyMove on Facebook, Kelley and her mom embarked on a cross-country road trip to visit six different communities featured on the platform. Each stop offered something unique, but Richmond stood out immediately.

"I fell in love with Richmond when I found it," Kelley said. Beyond the lower temperatures and charming cityscape, Kelley was drawn to Richmond’s sense of community, affordability and potential for a stable future.

Once Kelley knew Richmond was the right fit, she submitted her MakeMyMove application—and was pleasantly surprised by how easy the process was. Straightforward and transparent, it gave her confidence in the move ahead. Richmond’s program also allows movers to tailor their incentive packages, and Kelley chose the Arts Package, which came with free season tickets to the Richmond Symphony Orchestra. It was an opportunity she never would have considered back in Austin, where ticket prices made cultural outings feel like a luxury.

"It was a great excuse to dress up, but you didn’t have to. You could go in jeans and still enjoy world-class music," Kelley shared. It wasn’t just an introduction to Richmond’s arts scene—it was her first glimpse into a life where both culture and affordability were accessible.

Moving to Richmond also brought financial freedom. Kelley was able to rent a home with a large yard—something that would have been unattainable in Austin’s inflated housing market. With a lower cost of living, Kelley has paid down debt, maintained her preferred lifestyle, and even enjoyed little luxuries like daily three-egg omelets despite inflation.

"People really underestimate how much their life can improve when they move to a lower cost of living area," she said.

The supportive and welcoming atmosphere in Richmond helped Kelley quickly build a network of friends. Local businesses, like Two Sisters Bookshop, became places where she not only shopped but formed genuine community ties.

One of Kelley’s favorite Richmond discoveries was the 

—a spacious, fenced-in dog park complete with agility equipment and a welcoming community of pet lovers. For her dog, Moonlight, who had long struggled with Texas’s intense heat, the change was transformative. With the milder climate and room to roam, Moonlight could finally enjoy long play sessions without the constant need to cool down.

Learn More About Other Dog-Friendly Communities

It was at that very dog park that Kelley’s life took an unexpected, heartwarming turn. About two months after moving in, Kelley met her future husband, a doctoral student and fellow dog lover. Their connection was immediate and refreshingly organic.

"When you meet someone through shared interests instead of a dating app, there’s no pressure," Kelley explained. "It just clicks naturally."

Early on, Kelley knew she had found someone special. After seeing her new backyard’s overgrown state, after only a few dates her now husband, offered to help—spending nearly eight hours over two days mowing, trimming, and clearing space for Moonlight to play safely. His only motivation? Wanting to make Kelley’s life better.

"That's when I knew he was the one," Kelley said.

Kelley and her husband recently got married in Richmond’s beautiful public 

—a picturesque and surprisingly affordable venue. Their wedding was an intimate gathering of close friends and family, celebrating not just their love, but the new life they’ve built together.

Looking ahead, Kelley is excited about what’s next. She and her husband-to-be plan to start a family, continuing to put down roots in the community that welcomed her so warmly.

"I was looking for a place to plant myself and grow," Kelley said. "Richmond has given me that chance."

What started as a simple Facebook ad has turned into a lifelong adventure, proving that sometimes, the biggest changes begin with the smallest steps.

Discover how Kelley found a new life and love in Richmond, Indiana, after leaving Texas. Thanks in part to MakeMyMove, she found affordability, community, and a place to plant roots, even meeting her future husband at a dog park.

Richmond

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

Find apartments, homes, and townhouses for rent and for sale in Switzerland County, Indiana.  Plus, helpful links and realtors.

Switzerland County

Switzerland County, IN Housing Guide

When Ray Hamilton began searching for a way out of the housing crisis he faced in Arizona, he never imagined that a simple online ad would change everything. But that's exactly what happened when he discovered MakeMyMove.

Today, Ray, his wife, and their granddaughter are happily settled into a new home in Muncie, Indiana — a place they now proudly call home.

Ray worked full-time for the Department of Veterans Affairs and was employed throughout the challenges he faced. But even with a steady job, the rising cost of living in Phoenix became impossible to keep up with.

“We could barely afford to live in Phoenix,” Ray said. “Rent, groceries, gas—it all just kept going up.”

Over the course of just two years, Ray’s rent increased from $1,200 to $2,000 a month, a 66.7% spike that stretched his family’s finances to the breaking point. Arizona is among the states where rent has 

In 2023, Ray and his family were evicted from their 4-bedroom home despite his efforts to apply for rental assistance through Maricopa County.

“I was in the middle of applying for help when I got hospitalized for two weeks for a kidney transplant,” he explained. “They didn’t get my paperwork in time, and with the long list of applicants, I lost my place.”

With nowhere else to go, the family and two dogs temporarily moved in with friends in Arkansas. Over the next year, Ray focused on rebuilding: paying off outstanding rent, working closely with a mortgage company to improve his credit, and saving money. His wife is on disability, so his income is the primary support for their household.

When Ray first encountered an ad for MakeMyMove online, he was skeptical. “I thought, ‘Is this a scam?’” he admitted. “But I did my research, and it turned out to be legit.”

Encouraged by what he learned, Ray submitted applications to 

, hoping for a fresh start where homeownership was still within reach. Ultimately, he found his match in Muncie.

Having never visited Indiana before, Ray decided to take a leap of faith. He coordinated the purchase of a home remotely, working closely with his lender and realtor to ensure everything went smoothly. Through video tours and countless phone calls, Ray and his wife found a house that felt like the right fit — a place where they could build a new life together.

“I saw the listing, watched the walk-through video, and fell in love,” he said. “Everything just clicked.”

Affordability was a key factor in choosing Muncie. After carefully comparing options, Ray and his wife found that Muncie offered the best combination of housing prices, community amenities, and overall quality of life. The fact that Muncie is a college town, yet maintains a slower, more relaxed pace of life, was a bonus.

Beyond the economics, Ray was pleasantly surprised by the friendliness of the community. Compared to the hustle and anonymity of Phoenix, Muncie's welcoming atmosphere was a refreshing change. Neighbors waved hello, conversations sparked easily at local businesses, and there was an overall sense of belonging that was hard to find in larger cities.

"It’s a slower pace here," Ray shared. "People are friendlier. It’s been a very pleasant surprise."

Ray, who works remotely in legal administration, found the transition seamless. His daily work routine remained steady, and he quickly adapted to life in Indiana. Even better, his remote work setup allowed him to maintain his career without disruption while enjoying the benefits of his new community.

“It was an adjustment,” Ray said. “But a good one. We’re saving money, and nothing about my work has changed.”

The move also brought positive changes to his personal life. After months of uncertainty and living with family members in Arkansas, Ray’s family finally had a home of their own, complete with room for their three beloved dogs, including a new addition: a spirited young corgi they adopted locally.

"Our dogs love it here," Ray said. "They finally have space to roam and play."

While Ray and his family haven't fully explored everything Muncie has to offer yet, they’re excited about the possibilities. As the weather warms, they’re looking forward to visiting local museums, exploring the 

campus and spending more time enjoying outdoor spaces like local parks and lakes.

His granddaughter, who continues her homeschooling journey, has already begun settling in, and Ray is eager to explore more family-friendly activities around town.

Ray is eager to deepen his roots in the community. He hopes to get involved in local activities, explore his passion for sports memorabilia by visiting local baseball card shops and experience more of what makes Muncie special.

“Right now, we’re still getting used to everything, but I want to get out more,” he said. “I’ve heard about some community events and local spots I’d love to check out.”

Beyond settling into daily routines, Ray has bigger dreams. He hopes to find ways to give back to his new hometown, whether through volunteering, attending community events, or simply being an active and positive presence. The sense of stability and possibility he feels now is a stark contrast to the uncertainty he faced just a year ago.

"There's a lot more I want to do here," Ray said. "We’re just getting started."

Most importantly, the move has provided Ray and his family with something invaluable: stability, community, and a sense of belonging. They’ve not only found a house — they’ve found a home.

Discover how Ray Hamilton went from eviction in Phoenix to affordable homeownership in Muncie, Indiana—thanks to remote work flexibility and relocation incentives from MakeMyMove. A powerful story of resilience, community, and a fresh start.

Muncie

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

In the post-pandemic landscape, the age-old narrative of launching a career in a big city is being rewritten by a new generation of college graduates. Fueled by rising housing costs, remote work flexibility, and new lifestyle priorities, many Gen Z graduates are choosing to plant roots in smaller cities and rural towns—places where salaries stretch further, support systems run deep and communities actually want them there.

The 2023 U.S. Census Bureau estimates released in spring 2024 tell the story clearly: two-thirds of the country’s population growth since 2020 occurred in areas with fewer than one million residents. Even more telling,

 in the 25-to-44-year-old demographic—traditionally drawn to major metros—has shifted toward smaller cities and rural communities.

That means today’s grads aren’t just chasing jobs. They’re chasing quality of life, financial stability and places that align with their values—especially communities offering housing affordability, career development and access to natural beauty. And increasingly, they’re finding it in the heart of small-town America.

According to trend analysts and local development experts, Gen Z is making strategic moves. Rather than flocking to large metro areas on the coasts, they're seeking regions that offer:

Low cost of living and affordable housing

Student loan repayment or cash relocation incentives

Access to nature, outdoor activities and quality of life amenities

Opportunities to launch a business or gain leadership experience

Welcoming communities with coworking spaces and networking opportunities

For Gen Z graduates navigating a post-college world of rising rents and shifting priorities, small towns are offering more than just a soft landing—they’re offering a real future. Across the country, communities are investing in young talent with cash relocation incentives, professional development opportunities, and vibrant support networks that help newcomers feel at home from day one.

One of those communities is New Albany, Indiana, a Southern Indiana town just across the river from Louisville. New Albany is quickly emerging as a favorite for young professionals like Annie, who recently relocated from Chattanooga. “I picked New Albany because I was looking for something that was close to a city but far enough away to where I’d still enjoy peace and quiet,” Annie shared. 

Annie’s story is one of many. Across the country, graduates are choosing towns that offer not only affordability, but meaningful ways to plug in—through networking events, business development resources, and a culture that says 

Below, we’ve rounded up some of the most compelling relocation programs for 2025—where small-town charm meets serious incentive packages.

Top Relocation Incentive Programs for 2025 Graduates

5-year dual coworking memberships to The Root and Novaparke Innovation and Technology Campus

Free coworking space and social programming

Professional development and entrepreneurial support

Lunch with the mayor and local leadership

Memberships to the Mayfield Graves County Young Professionals Group and Rotary Club

6 months of coworking space at CoWork Columbus

Monthly mover meetups and community outings

One-year membership to the Young Professionals Program and the Greater Columbus Chamber of Commerce

25% tuition discount to Texas A&M Texarkana

One-year membership to The Assembly Line creator space

Preferred membership to Leadership Texarkana

VIP access to Texarkana’s business community

“Build Your Career in Jacksonville” incentive package

Free tuition to the local community Leadership Ellsworth County program

3-year membership to The Mill coworking space

Concierge access to entrepreneurial resources 

Free networking events with civic and busines leaders

Looking for cities that pay you to move in 2025? Explore top relocation incentives for recent college graduates—from $5K+ cash offers to coworking perks—in affordable U.S. towns where your career and budget can thrive.

New Albany

Morgantown

Mayfield

Columbus

Texarkana

Jacksonville

Hermitage

Ellsworth

Paducah

Bloomington

Best Places That Pay Recent Grads to Move in 2025

When Matthew Mekech and his partner started dreaming about a new life beyond Southern California, they knew they wanted something different: more affordability, more freedom, and a deeper connection to community. What they didn’t expect was just how easy it would be to find—with the help of MakeMyMove.

What started as a Google search led to a life-changing opportunity. Now, Matthew’s building a house, finding his people, and planting roots in Bloomington, Indiana—and it all began with a simple application.

Before relocating, Matthew and his partner were stuck in the grind: spending hours every week in traffic, paying soaring rent for a tiny apartment, and feeling boxed in by the high cost of living.

“We were kind of stacked on top of each other in a 500-unit complex,” Matthew shared. “Now, we’re building a three-bedroom house with a full basement, and the mortgage will be the same as our old one-bedroom rent in Huntington Beach.”

But affordability was just the start. The couple dreamed of a lifestyle that gave them room to breathe—traveling more, working remotely with more freedom, and feeling connected to their surroundings.

When they discovered Bloomington on the MakeMyMove platform, everything clicked.

Matthew had heard about relocation programs from 

, but finding MakeMyMove made the process feel real—and surprisingly simple.

“I remember telling my mom about it, and then it felt like almost immediately after that, we were accepted,” he said. “It was all pretty quick—definitely within days.”

The easy, transparent application process stood out. There were no complicated hoops to jump through, no endless paperwork—just a clear path forward.

And while Matthew and his partner had already been considering Bloomington because of family ties, MakeMyMove added extra incentives—and more importantly, connections.

“It wasn’t the deciding factor for us moving here,” Matthew said. “But it was definitely the cherry on top—and it helped plug me into the community in ways I would’ve missed otherwise.”

One of the biggest MakeMyMove benefits Matthew took advantage of was a coworking membership at 

, Bloomington’s hub for remote workers and entrepreneurs.

“I’m at The Mill two or three days a week now. It’s been huge for me—not just for staying productive, but for meeting people,” Matthew explained. “Their Slack channel alone has connected me to everything from tax help to new friends.”

Bloomington’s incentive package also introduced Matthew and his partner to the city’s arts and culture scene, with tickets to performances at the Bloomington Playwrights Project.

“We’ve seen phenomenal plays—stuff we probably never would’ve discovered on our own.”

Through The Mill, the local climbing gym, Facebook groups, and even Bumble BFF, Matthew built a strong circle of friends completely independent from his partner’s existing ties.

“People here are genuinely friendly,” he said. “It’s been easier to meet people than I expected.”

Matthew continues to work remotely for a California-based company in the food and beverage industry, doing creative marketing and graphic design. The move to Indiana didn’t just preserve his job—it actually improved his work life.

“Timing-wise, it was perfect,” he said. “Right when I moved, my company started expanding into New York. Being on Eastern Time has made it even easier to collaborate with those teams.”

Though he misses having a local office some days, coworking at The Mill filled that gap. And with a lower cost of living, he’s now exploring freelance design and photography work to help Bloomington’s small businesses shine.

“There’s a real opportunity here to help level up local food and beverage branding,” Matthew said. “Coming from Southern California, you see what’s possible—and I want to bring some of that here.”

As Matthew and his partner work on finishing their home on a family farm just outside of Bloomington, they’re also building something deeper: a life they can afford and feel proud of.

The next few years hold plenty of excitement: finishing the house, adding a second dog to the family, maybe even going back to school.

But more than anything, Matthew sees his move as a way to contribute - not just to build a life for himself, but to help strengthen the community he now calls home.

“MakeMyMove isn’t just about bringing remote workers into new towns,” he said. “It’s about bringing people who want to make an impact. People who want to add to something—not just take from it.”

Discover how Matthew traded Southern California’s high costs and long commutes for community, creativity, and a new home in Bloomington, Indiana—thanks to the MakeMyMove relocation program.

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

With inflation, rising interest rates, and the uncertainty around how tariffs will impact the cost of everyday items, many Gen Zs earning around $75,000 a year are asking the same question: 

Where can I actually afford to live comfortably and buy a home?

Across the U.S., a growing number of communities are stepping up with not just affordable housing markets, but with additional enticements including cash incentives, low taxes and a short commute. If you’re a remote worker, recent graduate, or simply looking to reset your lifestyle, here are seven cities where you can find real value, community, and a fresh start.

 Located on the shores of Lake Erie, this underrated community is one of the most affordable places to live in the Northeast. With median home prices around 

Looking for affordable places to live? This article highlights seven cities where a $75,000 income goes far, offering comfortable living, homeownership opportunities, and even cash incentives for relocating. 

Remote Working Trends & Tips

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

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

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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

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