Charleston

Located in the Appalachian Mountains and at the convergence of the Elk and Kanawha Rivers, Charleston is West Virginia’s most populous city, with the greater Charleston metro area surpassing 200,000 residents. Home to the University of Charleston and nearby West Virginia State University, Charleston combines the buzz of a lively college town with rich local history and culture. The region’s diverse geography offers exciting recreational opportunities, whether exploring the rivers by whitewater raft, hiking to a scenic overlook, or hitting one of the local ski resorts. Charleston features several waterfront parks, including Haddad Riverfront Park which boasts an outdoor amphitheater for live music, and the Sunrise Carriage Trail that provides spectacular views of the Kanawha River and the Charleston skyline. Other notable attractions include the year-round Capitol Market that offers local goods, meats and produce; West Virginia Music Hall of Fame; the West Virginia State Museum; the Charleston Coliseum & Convention Center; and the family friendly, science-themed Avampato Discovery Museum. If these amenities don’t seem enticing enough, Charleston currently offers a $5,000 cash incentive for working professionals who relocate to the city. For residents looking for a quick escape, Yeager Airport offers daily nonstop flights to Charlotte, Washington, D.C., Chicago, Atlanta, Philadelphia, and Orlando.

North Charleston

Plant some roots in Charleston. This heavenly town has something for everyone. If you're a hipster, a historian, or just have a hankering for some outdoor living, you'll find what you're looking for in the capital of West Virginia.  Plus it's a quick hop to a handful of big cities.   

Move to Charleston

A network of people committed to your growth in Charleston

Local experiences tailored to your interests, and to show you what Charleston and West Virginia can offer!

Verify your application and eligibility by uploading a 

. Learn more about the community by connecting with a community champion.

You're waiting for a formal offer from the community. In the meantime, 

You have been selected to formally join the program! Review your offer details and 

. Keep us posted on your progress. And if you need a hand, we’re here to connect you with helpful resources.

You've secured housing in your new community! Next up, you can connect with your local program owner about receiving program benefits.

It’s not uncommon to meet people in Owensboro who came for a short stay and ended up settling down - a testament to the community and quality of life in this hospitable Southern town. Locals gather for live music at a myriad of venues across the city which is home to the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame and ROMP, a not-to-be-missed 3 day music festival celebrating country music of all varieties. Remote workers with families will appreciate the top performing schools and the investment the community makes in youth spaces and activities. Case in point - the recently renovated Smothers Park, located on premium riverside real estate, has been named the top playground in the world (2015) by Landscape Architect’s Network.

It's for real, and MakeMyMove helps you find the right community for you, connect with locals there, and get support to make your move a piece of cake.
Locals gather for live music at a myriad of venues across the city which is home to the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame and ROMP, a not-to-be-missed 3 day music festival celebrating country music of all varieties. Remote workers with families will appreciate the top performing schools and the investment the community makes in youth spaces and activities.

Owensboro

Owensboro, Kentucky

Three month membership to the Owensboro Health Healthpark

One year membership with Western Kentucky Botanical Garden

One year Chamber Young Professional Membership (For movers 21-40)

Two 3-concert flex package to Owensboro Symphony Concert Season

Two free passes for Barrel Thieving Distillery Tour

Two free admissions to Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame & Music

Two tickets to event of choice in 2023 at Woodward Theatre

 One free dance class from Johnson’s Dance Studio

Free 16 oz. coffee & one donut per week for one year from local coffee shop

Free banjo, fiddle, or mandolin lessons with a local instructor

 to read more about why Columbus was named one of America's Most Welcoming Places by MakeMyMove!

Move to Columbus: Where Life Flows Meaningfully

Welcome to Columbus, GA. Whether you’re looking for a more affordable cost of living or an amazing place to raise a family, Columbus is the perfect place to call home. With plenty of recreational activities and a strong sense of community, Columbus makes it easy to fit in more of what makes life meaningful. Here, you can enjoy the perks of a larger city with all the warmth and affordability of a smaller town. In Columbus, you’ll find the arts, adventure and dining you crave, with the education and wellness to help your family thrive.

Take a look to see what meaningful really means in Columbus!

, here are some of our helpful perks to make your move successful:

, helping you stay productive and connect with fellow professionals.

, featuring tickets to exciting local attractions like 

Your move is just the beginning, once you move, 

, where you’ll explore the city, meet locals, and connect with community leaders. 

From world-class dining and arts to endless outdoor activities like rafting and biking the 15-mile RiverWalk, Columbus offers something for everyone. Thriving businesses, family-friendly amenities, and a vibrant young professionals network make this city the ideal place to grow and thrive. We hope to see you here soon! 

Move to Meaningful. Move to Columbus, GA.

Don’t just take our word for it - hear from one of our own movers...

"Columbus offers a fantastic quality of life. I love the accessibility of everything here. While there are tons of things to do in larger cities, they often come at a higher cost and can be less convenient to access compared to Columbus." - Will B.



Curious to learn more about the Columbus community? Check out our community page below!

Experience a city where life flows more meaningfully—Move to MeaningfulColumbus, GA. With a big hometown heart, Columbus offers a low cost of living, vibrant dining, arts, and outdoor amenities. From historic neighborhoods to modern developments, you'll find diverse housing options to fit your lifestyle. Whether it's a cozy family home or a downtown loft, Columbus has a place for you. With a growing tech infrastructure, it's an ideal hub for startups and remote work. From urban whitewater rafting to exploring the arts, there's always something exciting to do. Find out why life in Columbus is more meaningful.

Columbus

Kylie is your dedicated program manager and one of Columbus' most enthusiastic local guides! She’s here to guide you through the local hotspots, can’t miss events, and hidden gems, making it a breeze for new movers to make Columbus home from day one!

This program is sponsored by Regional Prosperity Initiative, Inc.

Move to Meaningful in Columbus

6 months of coworking space at CoWork Columbus

Annual Community Connection Outing - mix and mingle with Columbus locals

Monthly Mover Meet Ups - Connect with fellow movers and community leaders at complimentary coffee, lunch, or group outings while exploring Columbus together

Columbus Experience Package - Explore Columbus with your choice of tickets to Columbus Clingstones Baseball, The Columbus Museum, Springer Opera House, the RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, or other exciting local events. 

1 year membership to the Young Professionals Program

1 year family membership to Columbus Aquatics Center

1 year membership to the Greater Columbus Chamber of Commerce

Columbus Regional Tennis Association Membership

2 Night Hotel Stay During Your Columbus House Hunt

Ballad Health offers competitive pay and benefits for all team members, including a 401k program with employer matching, tuition assistance, advancement opportunities, adoption assistance and more.

Ballad Health is currently offering sign-on bonuses – 

 – for a wide range of positions in our facilities. You can browse our full list of sign-on bonuses in the offer application link.

Mountain City

Ballad Health Nurse Signing Bonus

Registered nurse signing bonus up to $25000

Make your move worthwhile. Cities and states are offering incentives, cash, amenities and other benefits when you relocate.

Programs - Apply Today to Access Benefits When You Move

Rooted in ancient ridges, deep bluegrass heritage, and rich storytelling, Eastern Kentucky lets you carve out your own mountain rhythm. Work remotely steps from world-class sandstone arches in the 

, plug into grassroots arts and community radio in 

, or spend sunny weekends houseboating on 

. Whether you are drawn to historic college towns like 

, you will find genuine Appalachian hospitality and full program support to build your life in these hills

With over 40 counties included in the eligible relocation area, you're bound to find one that feels like home! To help your decision making process, we've broken this big region down into 6 categories:

We're sure you'll have questions about neighborhoods, outdoor activities, schools and more and we're here to help. Go ahead and apply and you'll be hearing from Latasha right away!

 Known internationally for its towering sandstone cliffs and natural rock arches, the Red River Gorge is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Moving here provides immediate access to world-class rock climbing and dense forest hiking.

 Nestled deep in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, these communities offer a way of life where nature, culture, and community come together. Embrace deeply rooted local traditions and enjoy local bluegrass music at historic downtown venues.

 Defined by expansive water recreation on Lake Cumberland and Laurel River Lake, Lake Country perfectly blends vibrant small-town living with massive aquatic landmarks and a thriving houseboat culture.

 Anchored by institutions like Morehead State University and the University of Pikeville, these communities provide a dynamic intellectual environment. They offer a perfect balance of academic pursuits, beautiful collegiate architecture, and engaging cultural experiences.

 Running along U.S. Route 23, this scenic corridor is the undisputed birthplace of bluegrass and modern country music. The towns along this route celebrate a rich heritage of legendary artists and storytelling.

"We wanted a slower pace of life, and four seasons...We love the opportunities for hiking, camping, fishing, and kayaking. There are several opportunities for volunteering in our community which we are looking forward to getting involved in. We have great, reliable, fiber internet for my remote job....

Curious to learn more about Eastern Kentucky? Check out our community page below!

Sitting in the hills of the Appalachian Mountains, Eastern Kentucky offers remote workers the tight-knit communities, fast internet, and access to the outdoors that they crave. Popular hobbies for locals include kayaking, whitewater rafting, hiking, and mountain biking.

Prestonsburg

Latasha, a born-and-raised Eastern Kentuckian, is passionate about sharing the magic of her home with newcomers. She'll be your personal guide, answering your questions, connecting you with resources, and ensuring your smooth transition to mountain living. With Latasha's support, you'll quickly feel like a local.

“Fun Fact: I used to own a bakery here in Eastern Kentucky! In fact, I still receive calls from locals asking if they can put in an order for my famous Cream Horns.”

This program is sponsored by Shaping Our Appalachian Region (SOAR).

Move to Eastern Kentucky

Eligible remote workers can receive a $5,000 cash grant to help ease the financial transition of moving to Eastern Kentucky. These funds can be used flexibly toward moving expenses, housing arrangements, or getting settled in your new community.

Receive an enhanced $10,000 cash bonus when you choose to make Harlan County your new home. This substantial grant offers maximum financial flexibility to help cover relocation costs, home buying, or long-term settlement needs.

$10,000 cash bonus for those who relocate to Harlan County

Secure an additional $2,500 cash bonus if your partner secures qualifying local employment in education or healthcare.

$2,500 cash bonus available for partner that secures a qualifying local job in education or healthcare

Switch, save, and stay seamlessly connected with discounted mobile service and waived activation fees from Appalachian Wireless.

Discounted Phone Service and Activation from Appalachian Wireless

Switch, Save, and Stay Connected with Discounted Phone Service and Activation from Appalachian Wireless

Sit down for a casual welcome coffee with long-time locals who share your interests and passions. It provides a relaxed setting to ask questions, discover local hidden gems, and start building your personal network.

Welcome coffee with locals

A welcome coffee with locals to help you acclimate and learn the area 

Join an exclusive online network of fellow remote workers and recent movers, complete with regular social events. It provides a supportive space to share tips, attend virtual and in-person meetups, and make lasting friendships.

An online community of fellow movers

An online community of fellow movers, with regular events to help you build connections in Eastern Kentucky

Receive continued check-ins, local resources, and community connections long after your initial move-in date. This ongoing support ensures you don't just settle into Eastern Kentucky, but truly thrive in your new home.

Ongoing Support

Ongoing support even after you move to make sure you're not only settling in, but thriving

Call Mayfield & Graves County Home 🏡✨

Mayfield and Graves County offer the perfect mix of small-town warmth and fresh opportunities. With a friendly, tight-knit community, affordable living, and a rich tradition of Southern hospitality, it’s a place where you can truly feel at home. Stroll through the charming streets of historic downtown Mayfield, explore local shops and eateries, or enjoy the beauty of the region’s rolling farmland and outdoor spaces. From vibrant festivals and community gatherings to the welcoming spirit that greets you at every turn, Mayfield and Graves County are full of connections, character, and possibility.

Explore the Perks of Life in Mayfield & Graves County, Kentucky

Set in the heart of Western Kentucky, Mayfield and Graves County combine small-town warmth with a strong spirit of progress. Residents enjoy welcoming neighborhoods, an affordable cost of living, and a deep sense of community connection. From the charm of historic downtown Mayfield to the creative energy of the Purchase Players Theater and the vibrant performances at the Independence Bank Performing Arts Center, there’s always something to experience. Add in local festivals, high school sporting traditions, and the area’s rich agricultural heritage, and you’ll quickly see why this community feels like home. To make your move even smoother, we’ve assembled a collection of benefits to help you settle in, meet your neighbors, and start thriving from day one:

 Receive $5,000 in direct financial support to help cover your moving expenses, home setup, or anything else you need to make Mayfield and Graves County feel like home.

👧 50% Off Y’s Guys After School Childcare:

 Families can enjoy half-off rates for the Y’s Guys program, providing safe, fun, and engaging after-school care for children.

🥚 Monthly Gift of a Dozen Locally Sourced Eggs:

 Each month, you’ll receive a dozen fresh, locally sourced eggs from area farms, bringing a taste of Kentucky’s agricultural tradition right to your table.

🍽️ Lunch with the Mayor of Mayfield: 

Meet the Mayor for a personal lunch to discuss community life, ask questions, and learn more about your new hometown.

🚗 Community Tour and Lunch with Local Leadership:

 Enjoy a guided tour of Mayfield and Graves County, followed by lunch with community leaders who can connect you with local resources and opportunities.

🎭 Tickets to the Purchase Players Performing Arts Theater: 

Experience live local theater with complimentary tickets to the Purchase Players, showcasing regional talent and creative performances.

🏈 Family Pass for All Graves County High School Home Sporting Events:

 Cheer on the Graves County Eagles with a family pass that gives you entry to every home sporting event for the year.

🎨 Family Pass to the Fine Arts Season Events at the Independence Bank Performing Arts Center:

 Enjoy a season of fine arts performances with a family pass to concerts, plays, and special events.

🏟️ Family Pass for All Mayfield High School Home Sporting Events:

 Support the Mayfield Cardinals with a family pass to all home games throughout the school year.

 Stay active and connected with a full YMCA membership, offering access to fitness facilities, classes, and family-friendly activities.

🤝 Membership to the Mayfield Graves County Young Professionals Group: 

Network and socialize with other young professionals through events, volunteer opportunities, and community projects

🌍 Mayfield Graves County Rotary Club Membership: 

Join a global network of community-minded individuals with a membership to the local Rotary Club, dedicated to service and positive change.

🎁 Mayfield Graves County Welcome Basket:

 Receive a curated basket filled with local products, gifts, and helpful information to help you get acquainted with your new home.

Learn more about the community down below! 

Mayfield and Graves County offers an incredible mix of family-friendly activities, community engagement, and opportunities to grow both personally and professionally. Your new chapter starts here – and we’re excited to welcome you! 

Graves County

Emily—your dedicated program manager and personal Mayfield and Graves County welcome guide! Emily works for the City of Mayfield, and she’s here to answer your questions and help you feel right at home. Simply submit an application to get in touch.

Screenshot 2026-09-28 at 3.47.42 PM.png

Sponsored by Graves County Economic Development Inc.

Move to Mayfield and Graves County 

Monthly gift of a dozen locally sourced eggs

Community Tour and Lunch with Local Leadership

Tickets to the Purchase Players Performing Arts Theater

Family Pass for all Graves County High School home sporting events for the year

Family Pass to the fine arts season events at the Independence Bank Performing Arts Center

Family Pass for all Mayfield High School home sporting events for the year

Membership to the Mayfield Graves County Young Professionals group

Mayfield Graves County Rotary Club Membership

Welcome to Paducah. We're so glad you're here!

Watch this welcome video from Paducah Mayor George Bray about why you should call Paducah home!

Wondering if Paducah is for you? Read more below about why we love it here. 

Paducah is one of a small number of UNESCO Creative Cities in the United States, reflecting its long-standing role in arts and craft traditions. The city’s riverfront floodwall murals, galleries, museums, and performing arts venues anchor a strong cultural presence. Residents can engage with local arts through exhibitions, theater, music, and hands-on workshops offered throughout the community.

Paducah sits along I-24 between Nashville and St. Louis, providing convenient access to major regional destinations. The city’s location makes it an easy base for travel throughout the Midwest and South. Barkley Regional Airport offers daily jet service to Charlotte, connecting residents to a broader national and international network.

Paducah offers a relatively low cost of living with a range of housing options across more than 50 neighborhoods. Historic homes, established residential areas, and access to high-speed internet make the city practical for families, professionals, and remote workers.

The city serves as a regional center for education and employment across western Kentucky and surrounding states. Public schools, the Paducah Innovation Hub, and higher education institutions—including West Kentucky Community and Technical College and Murray State University’s Paducah campus—provide academic and workforce pathways. Major healthcare facilities and regional employers also support a broad local economy.

Paducah hosts numerous festivals, parades, and cultural events throughout the year. Its historic downtown includes museums, restaurants, retail shops, and performance venues such as Market House Theatre, the Carson Center, and Maiden Alley Cinema. These spaces support an active calendar of performances, film screenings, and community gatherings.

City parks and trails support walking, biking, swimming, and skating, while nearby waterways offer boating and fishing. Within a short drive, Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area and Shawnee National Forest provide additional opportunities for hiking, camping, rock climbing, and other outdoor activities.

On top of that, we've assembled local perks to help you explore, connect, and thrive from day one:

 gives newcomers a financial boost to start their life in Paducah, whether for exploring the city, investing in hobbies, or enjoying local experiences.

1-year membership to Sprocket coworking space

 offers a professional environment to work, connect with others, and build a network, making it easier to feel at home in the city’s professional community.

 opens the door to social events, local projects, and mentorship, helping newcomers quickly integrate into Paducah’s social and professional life.

Paducah is great but don’t just take our word for it - hear from one of our own movers...

"The people here don’t just say “welcome to the neighborhood,” but instead, “Hey, why don't you join us for a bonfire?...Everyone is so warm and outgoing here and it’s so convenient to live in such close proximity to one another."

Read more about Teresa's journey from the Chicago suburbs to Paducah 

Matt Collinsworth

CEO, National Quilt Museum

A designated UNESCO Creative City, Paducah is a destination for those who crave rich, authentic cultural experiences. Find your inspiration when you make your move to Paducah.

Paducah

Nancy—your dedicated program manager and personal Paducah welcome guide! Nancy works for the City of Paducah, and she’s here to answer your questions and help you feel right at home. Simply submit an application to get in touch.

Move to Paducah

Up to $5,000 award upon establishing residency in Paducah

1 Year Membership to Sprocket Coworking Space (first 6 months free, next 6 months 50% off)

1 Year Membership to the Paducah Young Professionals

Catalyze EKY: Where Innovation Finds Its Roots!

Catalyze EKY is more than a relocation program—it’s a founder-first pathway powered by SOAR Innovation, one of Kentucky’s six regional innovation hubs.


For entrepreneurs ready to bring their ideas and families to Eastern Kentucky, this program combines the unmatched quality of life our region offers with intensive support, coaching, and mentoring tailored to help tech-based businesses grow.

Participants will gain direct access to our Entrepreneur-in-Residence, opportunities to participate in SOAR’s accelerator programs, and connections to capital through networks like the Appalachian Innovation Investment Fund, all designed to help your business scale faster. Alongside seasoned mentors and a collaborative community of peers, Catalyze EKY provides the resources and support you need to thrive.

It’s a great place to live—and an even better place to launch.

Eastern Kentucky combines affordable costs, strong mentorship, and a supportive entrepreneurial ecosystem, making it ideal for launching and growing a tech business. Founders benefit from access to accelerators, funding, and a skilled workforce, all within a community invested in innovation and long-term economic growth.

Don't just take our word for it - hear from others building their businesses in Eastern Kentucky...

“Through SOAR's 1:1 coaching, networking, brainstorming, and relationship building, Sunflower Fuels has gained access to candidates for employment, prospective investors, and prospective customers. Thanks to SOAR’s support, I’ve not only strengthened my startup’s foundation but also expanded my network in ways I never imagined." 

"SOAR has been more than a program — it’s been a bridge. Their guidance, encouragement, and connections have helped transform MountainView from a dream into a growing company that represents what’s possible for entrepreneurs in Eastern Kentucky."

-Alex Lamb, Founder & CEO of MountainView GeoSystems LLC

Participants receive a comprehensive package designed to ease their move and accelerate their success. This includes a $5,000 cash relocation incentive and a guaranteed spot in the nearest accelerator cohort with a monetary award upon completion. Founders will also receive a complimentary SOAR Summit ticket and exhibitor booth—a prime opportunity to connect with innovators across the region.

Founders gain access to a powerful support network designed to foster growth and connection. Participants receive personalized mentorship and coaching from the SOAR Innovation team, along with direct guidance from the Entrepreneur-in-Residence (EIR). They’re invited to entrepreneurial ecosystem events that expand their networks and visibility, as well as quarterly Regional Founders Gatherings—complete with mileage and meal stipends. Participants can also mentor or be mentored within the broader Appalachian startup community, building lasting relationships that strengthen the region’s innovation ecosystem.

Meet our Entrepreneur in Residence, Rick West, as he shares his journey from Pike County, Kentucky, to the global stage, and back again.

We make your move to Eastern Kentucky seamless and welcoming. Participants receive housing assistance through Eastern KY Realtors and the local Housing Guide, plus personalized 1:1 relocation support from program directors and community connectors to help them settle in quickly. To top it off, enjoy free phone service and activation from Appalachian Wireless through the 

 program—keeping you connected from day one.

Catalyze EKY is more than a relocation program—it’s a founder-first pathway powered by SOAR Innovation, one of Kentucky’s six regional innovation hubs. For entrepreneurs ready to bring their ideas and families to Eastern Kentucky, this program combines the unmatched quality of life our region offers with intensive support, coaching, and mentoring tailored to help tech-based businesses grow. 

Pikeville

Catalyze EKY

$5,000 cash for relocation and personalized guidance from local connectors to help you settle comfortably into Eastern Kentucky

Connectivity Perks - Stay connected from day one with complimentary phone service and activation from Appalachian Wireless

Startup Acceleration Access - Gain exclusive access to a network of investors, funders, and accelerator partners, opening opportunities for future startup funding and mentorship

Mentorship & Coaching - Work directly with the SOAR Innovation team and their Entrepreneur-in-Residence for tailored guidance designed to accelerate your growth and impact

Networking & Community - Expand your reach through exclusive invitations to ecosystem events, quarterly Regional Founders Gatherings, and peer-to-peer mentorship opportunities within the broader Appalachian startup network

Regional Integration - Gain meaningful connections with local leaders, innovators, and partners who are committed to helping your business thrive in Eastern Kentucky

Move to Charleston

AT A GLANCE

Move to Charleston

AT A GLANCE

What’s Included - Up to $10,000 in Value

Charleston Program Photo Gallery

Living in Charleston

We’ve helped 4,000+ people move since 2021.

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