Live and Work Local in Mercer County, MO
Total Incentive
$6,500
Description
Your Next Career Starts Here
Mercer County offers meaningful career opportunities, a safe rural lifestyle, welcoming schools, affordable living, and a close-knit community where you can truly put down roots. If you're ready for a fresh start in a place where your career and family can thrive, Mercer County is ready to welcome you.
Your Welcome Package
💰 $5,000 Cash Relocation Grant to help cover moving expenses and make your transition to Mercer County easier.
🤝 One-Year Chamber Membership with networking opportunities, local events, and connections to area businesses and organizations.
🏊 One-Year Family Membership to the Stacy Center with access to the fitness center, indoor pool, skating nights, youth activities, and family recreation.
🎁 Community Welcome Basket featuring locally made products and helpful information to help you get settled.
🏨 Two-Night House-Hunting Stay to explore neighborhoods, tour homes, interview with local employers, and experience Mercer County before making your move.
Additional Benefits
👋 Meet Local Employers & Community Leaders — Connect with business owners, Chamber representatives, school administrators, and community leaders while exploring career opportunities.
🏡 Free Residential Lot — Eligible participants who build a home in Princeton or Mercer within two years may qualify for a residential lot.
🎓 Kaufman Scholarship — Eligible girls who attend Mercer County schools for two years can receive a scholarship to attend any Missouri college or university.
📚 Missouri A+ Program — Eligible students can attend participating Missouri community colleges tuition-free.
Notable employers and career sectors include:
- 🌾 Agriculture & Agribusiness – Family farms, livestock operations, grain production, and agricultural service businesses are the backbone of the local economy.
- 🏥 Harrison County Community Hospital (Bethany, MO – approximately 20 minutes away) – A regional healthcare provider offering careers in nursing, clinical care, administration, and support services.
- 🎓 North Mercer R-III School District – Opportunities in education, administration, transportation, and student services.
- 🏛️ Local Government & Public Services – Mercer County government, emergency services, and public works provide stable career opportunities.
- 🛠️ Manufacturing, Transportation & Skilled Trades – Regional employers offer careers in production, logistics, construction, maintenance, and skilled trades throughout northwest Missouri and southern Iowa.
Why Mercer County?
A place where your career can grow: Local employers are looking for dedicated professionals who want to build long-term careers and become part of the community.
Safe & family-friendly: People know their neighbors, schools are welcoming, and kids have the freedom to enjoy small-town life.
Outdoor paradise: Hunting, fishing, wide-open farmland, quiet country roads, and endless opportunities to enjoy the outdoors.
Community that shows up: During your visit, we'll introduce you to local employers, school leaders, Chamber representatives, and community members so you can start building connections before you move.
Affordable living: Stretch your paycheck further with lower housing costs, everyday affordability, and a high quality of life.
The murals in Mercer and Princeton were created by a local artist who began painting at just 13 years old. They showcase Mercer County’s pride in local talent and the people who help shape its communities. It’s a reflection of the welcoming, hometown character that defines Mercer County.
Have questions about life in Mercer County? Connect with Shelley, your local guide, for local insight, recommendations, and personalized guidance.
Who This Place Is Perfect For
- Professionals looking for a rewarding career and a welcoming community.
- Families seeking safe neighborhoods, excellent schools, and a slower pace of life.
- Outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy hunting, fishing, and rural living.
- Individuals or families ready to build a home and take advantage of available residential lot incentives.
- Anyone looking for an affordable place to build a career, raise a family, and become part of a close-knit community.
This program is sponsored by the Mercer County Area Development Corporation (MCAD.)
Am I eligible?
Mercer County, MO is currently recruiting jobseekers who:
Make at least $20,000 in their current employment and will secure new full-time employment earning at least $50,000 annually in or nearby Mercer County, MO for the entirety of the program term
Are 18 years or older
Current reside outside of Mercer County, MO
Remote workers, gig workers and self-employed workers are not eligible
Will provide employment and residency documentation to confirm eligibility
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Living in Mercer County
Learn about where you could live, before you get there. The below Places are eligible relocation destinations for this Program.
We’ve helped 4,000+ people move since 2021.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost?
We’re 100% supported by communities. Thanks to their investments, our service is free to folks like you who are thinking about making a move.
My spouse will need a job as part of our move. Can you help?
Absolutely! In many participating communities, we work with local partners to help connect newcomers—and their families—with job opportunities and other helpful resources. Some programs even offer bonus incentives for others in the household that land local jobs. You can let us know your needs in your application, or feel free to reach out to our team anytime during the process. We’re here to help make the transition as smooth as possible.
How can I increase my chances of being selected?
Engagement matters! These programs can fill up fast, so staying responsive throughout the process can help you secure your spot more quickly. Take the time to connect with your program manager—share what’s drawing you to the community and how you hope to get involved once you arrive. The more they understand your goals, the better they can advocate for you and shape a great experience in return.
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Track Your Progress
Once you’ve applied, we work alongside your local program team to help you secure your spot, find a home, and settle into your new community.
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