Johnson City

Nestled along the Appalachian Mountains in eastern Tennessee, Johnson City is a diverse and welcoming community full of big-city amenities and small-town southern charm. 

Learn about the city’s role in railway history at the Clinchfield Railroad Museum, or explore an active fossil dig site at the Hands On! Discovery Center. Grab your bike and take in some fresh air and stunning views with 40 acres of wooded trails at the Tannery Knobs Mountain Bike Park. Shop for unique treasures at Nest Interiors and Gifts, or find fresh local produce, baked goods, and crafts at the Johnson City Farmer’s Market. 


Enjoy the diversity of the local restaurant scene, from the funky, eclectic menu at Cootie Brown’s to comfort-food classics at Maple Street Biscuit Company, then top it off with a sweet treat from Cakebuds, voted one of the Best 10 Bake Shops in Tennessee. 

Catch a show at the Johnson City Community Theater, listen to live music at Capone’s or The Hideaway, then enjoy a local brew at Johnson City Brewing or a craft cocktail at Windsor Speakeasy. Residents celebrate food, culture, and community with unique annual festivals like the Thirsty Orange Brew Extravaganza, the Blue Plum Festival, and the Umoja Unity Festival. 

Located less than 20 miles north of Johnson City, Tri-Cities Airport offers direct flights to Charlotte, Atlanta, Dallas, and more. 

Nestled along the Appalachian Mountains in eastern Tennessee, Johnson City is a diverse and welcoming community full of big-city amenities and small-town southern charm.

Johnson City is offering up to $5,000 in relocation expenses, along with plenty of other perks, for qualified remote workers.

Nestled along the Appalachian Mountains in eastern Tennessee, Johnson City is a diverse and welcoming community full of big-city amenities and small-town southern charm.
 
Johnson City is offering up to $5,000 in relocation expenses, along with plenty of other perks, for qualified remote workers.

In addition to the relocation stipend, qualified remote workers will receive $1,000 off the purchase of a new spa or hot tub from LPI, Inc., up to $500 towards the purchase of a bike from Trek, a free outdoor grill, discounted sporting goods, and a 50/50 match on one-day rental desks at Spark Plaza.

To qualify, you must be a full-time remote worker and have a minimum annual income of $50,000. You must relocate to Johnson City within 6 months of acceptance.

Make the move to Johnson City, Tennessee, today and experience the thriving culture, beautiful views and perks you won’t find anywhere else.

Move to Johnson City

Up to $1,000 off the purchase of a new spa or hot tub

Up to $500 towards the purchase of a bike from Trek

50/50 match on one-day rental desks at Spark Plaza

$500 for a referal of a new remote resident to NE Tennesse 

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

Up to $18,000 to Move to the Best of Texas & Arkansas

Texarkana offers something increasingly difficult to find: affordable living, career opportunities, and room to grow ...without the cost and congestion of a major metro. Split between Texas and Arkansas, the region combines two states' worth of amenities, employers, higher education, and culture, all within a connected community that makes it easy to feel at home.

More than a relocation incentive. This program is designed to help you build connections, grow professionally, and feel at home in Texarkana from day one.

✓ You work remotely or run your own business
✓ You earn at least $60,000 annually
✓ You currently live outside the Texarkana region
✓ You're ready to relocate within the next 6 months
✓ You're looking for a lower cost of living and a more connected community

Additional eligibility requirements apply. Review the full criteria below before applying.

Call Texarkana Home: Where two states meet to offer you unparalleled opportunities! Thrive in a diverse economy, immerse yourself in a vibrant arts scene, and celebrate a unique dual-state lifestyle. Texarkana is not just a place to live, it's a place to prosper!

Texarkana

Brandy and Rob are your local contacts for everything Texarkana. They'll help you access your benefits, answer questions, and connect you with the community.

This program is in partnership with AR-TX REDI, a non-profit group born from a unified vision for the future of Northeast Texas and Southwest Arkansas.

Call Texarkana Home

Eligible new residents can receive $5,000 in cash to help offset the direct costs of moving to Texarkana. These flexible funds can be applied toward moving expenses, housing, or general settling-in costs.

Advance your education with 25% off tuition and your very first class free at Texas A&M University-Texarkana. It offers an exceptional opportunity to pursue higher learning, skill development, or degree advancement locally.

25% off tuition and your first class free at Texas A&M Texarkana

Kickstart your educational journey with a complimentary first class at the University of Arkansas Hope-Texarkana. It provides a seamless entry point to explore higher education, workforce training, or personal enrichment courses.

Free first class at University of Arkansas Hope Texarkana

Gain fast-tracked review and preferred consideration when applying to The Assembly Line Incubator.

Preferred application to The Assembly Line Incubator

Receive preferred status for membership in Leadership Texarkana to quickly build meaningful civic connections.

Preferred membership to Leadership Texarkana

Enjoy a membership to TRAHC and immerse yourself in Texarkana’s vibrant local arts scene. It grants access to gallery exhibitions, cultural programming, live performances, and community arts events throughout the year.

Membership to the Texarkana Regional Arts & Humanities Council

Sit down for an exclusive welcome breakfast with prominent local officials, business leaders, and community movers and shakers.

Breakfast with Texarkana’s key community leaders

Jumpstart your fitness routine with three full months of free membership, followed by a 50% discount for the next nine months at CrossFit Texarkana.

3 Month pass to CrossFit Texarkana and 50% off for the next 9 months

Enjoy a full year of complimentary access to all Business After Hours networking events hosted by the Texarkana Chamber of Commerce. It provides a fun, informal setting to meet fellow professionals and integrate into the local business community.

1 year of access to all after hours events hosted by the Texarkana Chamber of Commerce

Receive a thoughtfully curated gift basket filled with locally made products, community resources, and insider guides to the area.

Prioritize mind and body wellness with a 50% discount on your membership at Prodigy Yoga.

Receive complimentary tickets to immersive social and cultural events hosted by LNX TXK. It gives new residents front-row access to curated community experiences, social mixers, and local entertainment.

Tickets to experiential events put on by LNX TXK Texarkana

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

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

Move to Johnson City

AT A GLANCE

Move to Johnson City

AT A GLANCE

What’s Included - Up to $5,000 in Value

Am I eligible?

Living in Johnson City

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

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