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

The unspoiled beauty of Crawford County is one-of-a-kind. One of Indiana’s southernmost counties, you’ll be hard-pressed to find more beautiful views. In addition to great teachers and schools, there are many opportunities for you and your family to immerse yourselves into the culture.

Move to Crawford County 

1 annual pass to Indiana Department of Natural Resources state parks

A free Springs Valley Bank & Trust checking account with a $250 bonus

Quarterly Mover Events - hikes, beach days, winery tours, and more!

Martinsburg

Picture a mountain retreat with proximity to Washington, D.C. and Baltimore, Maryland.  Nestled along the Potomac River, the Eastern Panhandle offers an array of outdoor activities, including a chance to hike the Appalachian Trail as it passes through Harpers Ferry, to ski in one of seven ski areas, to paddle down the river on over 100 paddling runs, or to mountain bike the many trails.  The area boasts international cuisine and local favorites including craft breweries and artisan pizza.  There are several long standing farmers markets and the Mountain State Apple Harvest Festival that has taken place every October for decades in celebration of the apple harvest.  The Eastern Panhandle also has a rich mix of cultural assets and activities, including Civil War history and arts of all kinds (music, dance, film).  So much to do and to see – it would be hard not to settle right in.

You’ll be welcomed by local ambassadors who can point you to the best places to work remotely (coworking spaces and other public areas with internet access) and connect you to established professional development and entrepreneurial assistance opportunities.  The Eastern Panhandle puts you right in the heart of beautiful surroundings with welcoming neighbors, yet close enough to metropolitan areas that you won’t ever feel you’re lacking for anything.


Move to the Eastern Panhandle

Free Outdoor Recreation Experiences and Gear Rentals

Professional Development and Entrepreneurial Assistance

Ketchikan

Often referred to as Alaska’s “first city” due to its location as the southernmost entrance to Alaska's Inside Passage, Ketchikan is known for its breathtaking wilderness, its rich Alaska native culture and history, and its abundance of salmon. 

For remote workers and other tech-based entrepreneurs, Ketchikan represents a unique opportunity to live a truly connected lifestyle unlike any other city. The benefits of moving to the area are plentiful and include a permanent fund dividend. Every year, each Alaska resident will receive money from the Alaska Permanent Fund Dividend after they’ve been a resident for one year. The amount varies each year. Additionally, Alaska is one of only 9 states with no income tax and one of 5 states with no state sales tax. Ketchikan also offers gigabit fiber optic home internet, and accepted applicants can receive up to 3 months free. 

Finalists for the program may be invited to visit Ketchikan for a week-long “workation” where they will experience the community, culture, explore co-working spaces, and learn more about “the basics” that Ketchikan has to offer such as education, healthcare, technology, and housing.


Move to Ketchikan

Southern Indiana is known for its stunning rolling hills, affordable living, and genuine hospitality. While visitors flock to popular destinations like the French Lick Resort and the historic West Baden Springs Hotel, the region is also home to a vibrant local community filled with thriving small businesses and tight knit neighborhoods. With scenic views, welcoming towns, and a strong spirit of connection, Southern Indiana offers more than just a place to live—it’s a place to belong. It’s easy to see why so many are proud to call it home

Explore the Perks of Life in Southern Indiana

Tucked into the rolling hills of the Hoosier state, Southern Indiana combines natural beauty, close knit communities, and a growing regional economy. With charming small towns, strong school systems, and easy access to outdoor recreation, it’s a place where quality of life and opportunity go hand in hand. Residents enjoy scenic parks, historic landmarks, local wineries, and year-round events that bring people together. From relocation support to lifestyle perks, we’ve assembled a collection of benefits to help you settle in, make connections, and thrive in Southern Indiana from day one:

Receive $5,000 to help cover your moving costs to Daviees, Greene, Crawford, Martin, Orange, or Dubois County–making settling into your new Southern Indiana home a smooth and stress-free experience.

 Explore the natural beauty of Indiana all year long with free access to over 30 state parks including nearby gems like Patoka Lake, Spring Mill, and O’Bannon Woods. Perfect for hiking, camping, and weekend adventures.

Free Checking Account at Springs Valley Bank & Trust + $250 Bonus: 

Get started financially with a free checking account at a trusted local bank and enjoy a $250 cash bonus just for signing up.

 Connect with your new neighbors at exclusive quarterly events just for new residents. From group hikes and beach days to winery tours and local festivals, it’s a great way to explore the region and build community.

Choose Two Bonus Experiences from the List Below:

Enjoy a complimentary tour and tasting at Patoka Lake Winery, known for its scenic vineyard views and award-winning wines. A perfect introduction to the region’s growing wine scene.

Free Visit to Wilstem Ranch Drive-Through Safari: 

Get up close with exotic animals on a unique drive-through safari adventure at Wilstem Ranch, where you can spot giraffes, zebras, kangaroos, and more.

Tickets for Two to Dinner and a Musical at Abbeydell Hall: 

Experience a charming night out with dinner and live entertainment at Abbeydell Hall, located at the historic French Lick Resort. Expect Broadway-style performances with a local twist!

Check Out the Counties in Our Choose Southern Indiana Program

Home to a strong manufacturing base and a vibrant Amish community, Daviess County offers a unique blend of tradition and innovation. Enjoy quiet countryside living with easy access to quality schools, local markets, and family-friendly events.

Known for its beautiful rural landscapes and outdoor recreation, Greene County is perfect for nature lovers. With peaceful small towns, affordable living, and welcoming residents, it’s a great place to slow down and build community.

Nestled along the Ohio River, Crawford County is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with access to hiking, fishing, and Hoosier National Forest. Its tight-knit communities and scenic views make it a peaceful place to call home.

A hidden gem with charming towns and a strong sense of pride, Martin County offers affordability, safety, and simplicity. Residents enjoy easy access to nature and a slower pace of life that’s perfect for families and remote workers.

Home to the French Lick Resort and historic West Baden Springs Hotel, Orange County is a tourism hotspot with a rich cultural heritage. Residents benefit from economic growth, natural beauty, and a wide variety of recreational opportunities.

A thriving business and manufacturing hub, Dubois County combines economic opportunity with small-town charm. Its award-winning schools, clean neighborhoods, and active arts scene make it one of Southern Indiana’s most desirable places to live.

Southern Indiana is fun, friendly, and affordable. From the quiet charm of Amish markets to the glitz and glamour of a Vegas-style casino, Southern Indiana offers something to make everyone feel at home. For outdoor recreation, try boating or fishing in Shakamak State Park, go hunting in the Glendale Fish and Wildlife Area, or take a stroll along the scenic Jasper River Walk

French Lick

Choose Southern Indiana

Free checking account at Springs Valley Bank & Trust (plus enjoy a $250 bonus)

Quarterly Mover Events including: hikes, beach days, winery tours, and more

Visit to the Wilstem Ranch Drive Through Safari

With its low cost of living, welcoming atmosphere, and diverse population, Terre Haute offers the perfect balance of small-town charm and big-picture opportunity. It’s a place where you can make a meaningful impact, whether you're building a career, raising a family, or getting involved in the community. Terre Haute continues to grow and evolve, making it an exciting place to live, work, and thrive.

Explore the Perks of Life in Terre Haute, Indiana

Situated along the Wabash River, Terre Haute offers a unique blend of small-town charm, cultural diversity, and steady economic growth. Home to several colleges and universities, including Indiana State University, this city buzzes with energy, innovation, and opportunity. Residents love the walkable downtown, thriving arts and music scene, scenic parks, and strong community connections. With relocation incentives, coworking memberships, wellness perks, and more, we’ve curated a collection of benefits to help you feel welcomed, plugged in, and ready to thrive in Terre Haute from day one:

 Receive $7,500 in direct financial support to help cover moving expenses, housing costs, or anything else you need to make your new start in Terre Haute comfortable and stress-free.

6-month Membership to Union Hospital Gym:

 Stay active with a free half-year membership to this full-service fitness center, offering group classes, personal training, and top-tier equipment in a convenient, hospital-affiliated setting focused on health and wellness.

Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College Sports Passes:

 Cheer on the Pomeroys with free passes to athletic events at this scenic and historic campus, home to NCAA Division III sports and a proud tradition of women's and men's athletics.

Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology Sports Passes:

 Experience the energy of top-tier college athletics with complimentary access to games at one of the nation's leading STEM-focused institutions. Root for the Fightin’ Engineers in sports like basketball, soccer, and football.

Family Day Pass & Ropes Challenge Course at Terre Haute Children's Museum:

 Enjoy a hands-on day of learning and adventure with a full-access pass to this beloved museum, plus a ropes course experience that challenges kids (and adults) to climb, balance, and explore above the museum floor.

In Terre Haute, adventure and culture go hand in hand. This vibrant city offers a refreshing alternative to the fast pace of larger metros—without sacrificing access to exciting amenities and meaningful experiences. From scenic trails and local breweries to Division I college sports, performing arts, and a growing downtown, Terre Haute invites you to enjoy a lifestyle that's connected, creative, and full of opportunity:

 Basketball fans can explore memorabilia and 

celebrating the legendary career of Terre Haute’s own Larry Bird.

, then catch a performance or classic film at the beautifully restored Indiana Theatre.

offer peaceful trails, playgrounds, and the perfect spot to relax with nature.

with musicals, plays, and performances that bring the arts to life year-round.

 adds energy and opportunity to the city with cultural events, Division I sports, and lifelong learning for all.

Terre Haute is a community revitalized with new downtown development, growing tourism assets, nationally-recognized facilities, and four higher education institutions. The Wabash Valley is a region rich in sports and outdoor recreation. 


Terre Haute

Discover the Best of Terre Haute

Saint Mary of the Woods College Sports Passes 

Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology Sports Passes

Family Day Pass and Ropes Challenge Course at the Terre Haute Children's Museum

Mingle with the Mayor – Connect face-to-face with the Mayor of Terre Haute and gain firsthand insight into the city’s vision, leadership, and community life.

Explore the Perks of Life in Pittsfield, Illinois

Nestled in the rolling hills of West Central Illinois, Pittsfield blends small-town charm with a welcoming, close-knit spirit. Residents enjoy friendly neighborhoods, a low cost of living, and a pace of life that leaves room for connection and community. From the historic architecture of the courthouse square to the unique shops and eateries downtown, Pittsfield offers both tradition and vibrancy. Outdoor enthusiasts will love the access to Illinois’ natural beauty, with nearby hunting, fishing, hiking, and scenic parks. Add in local festivals, high school sports pride, and a culture of neighborly hospitality, and you’ll quickly see why Pittsfield 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 make your move to Pittsfield seamless, whether you use it for moving expenses, home updates, or settling into your new community.

🌐 3 Free Months of High-Speed Internet, Phone & TV Bundle:

 Stay connected from day one with three months of complimentary high-speed internet, phone, and TV service, helping you get your home and work life running smoothly.

🚰 3 Free Months of Water and Sewer Utilities:

 Enjoy three months of no-cost water and sewer services, easing your initial transition and lowering your setup costs.

🏊 Family Pool Pass to King Park Pool: 

Cool off and have fun all summer long with a season pass for the whole family to King Park Pool, a local favorite for relaxation and recreation.

🛡 Free 6 Months of Identity Theft Insurance from Farmers State Bank:

 Protect your personal information with six months of identity theft insurance, giving you peace of mind as you settle in.

🌾 1-Year Membership to Access Illinois Outdoors:

 Explore the region’s natural beauty with a full year of membership, granting you access to exclusive outdoor activities like hunting, fishing, and nature experiences across Illinois.

 Get outside and discover Pittsfield’s disc golf courses with a starter kit that includes everything you need to learn and enjoy the sport.

🏡 Free Home Inspection with the Purchase of a Home through Ridgeline Sales Group:

 Save on closing costs and ensure peace of mind with a complimentary home inspection when you buy through Ridgeline Sales Group.

🤝 Join a Local Service Organization Board:

 If you’re passionate about giving back, you’ll be connected with a local service organization where you can serve on the board, share your skills, and make a difference.

 Be partnered with a friendly local ambassador who will personally show you around, introduce you to community members, and help you discover Pittsfield’s best-kept secrets.

🏢 Upcoming: Access to Incubator Offices and Conference Room Space: 

Take advantage of future access to shared office and meeting space, perfect for entrepreneurs, freelancers, and remote workers.

 Receive a thoughtfully curated basket filled with local products, gift cards, and information to help you feel right at home from your first day.

Lincoln approved! Pittsfield, Illinois, is a small, historic city known for its picturesque landscapes and rich heritage.

Pittsfield

Move to Pittsfield 

3 Free Months of High Speed Internet, Phone & TV Bundle

3 Free Months of Water and Sewer Utilities 

Free 6 Months of Identity Theft Insurance from Farmers State Bank

1 Year Membership to Access Illinois Outdoors

Disc Golf Starter Kit to try out Pittsfield's Courses

Free Home Inspection with the Purchase of a Home through Ridgeline Sales Group

Have something you're passionate about? Sit on a local service organization's board

Pittsfield New Neighbor Network - You will be partnered with a local who will take you under their wing and show you the best Pittsfield has to offer!

Upcoming: Access to Incubator Offices and Conference Room Space 

Greenbrier Junction

Beauty abounds in Greenbrier Valley.  There’s no better place for the outdoor enthusiast than one with a free-flowing river, one of the largest cave systems in North America, hiking and biking trails galore, rolling farmland, and mountain slopes.  The New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, the Greenbrier State Forest, and the one-million-acre Monongahela National Forest each offer opportunities for any outdoor adventure one might conjure up.  Couple the beauty of the great outdoors with small town charm and a premier resort that draws people from around the world, and you have found a home in Greenbrier Valley.  

You’ll be welcomed by local ambassadors who know the food scene that includes special farm-to-table dinners, can point you to the best places to work remotely (coworking spaces and other public areas with internet access), and connect you to established professional development and entrepreneurial assistance opportunities.  The communities of Greenbrier Valley are close-knit places with loads to offer and a desire to share what makes this such a special area to put down roots.


Greenbrier Valley

Make Your Move to Black River Falls and Get More From Remote Work

If you’re looking for a place where your remote career can thrive alongside a more active, outdoors focused lifestyle, Black River Falls offers the space, support, and incentives to make it happen.

, with 50% paid after you establish residency and the remaining 50% after your first year. It’s a meaningful investment in helping you transition, settle in, and become part of the community.

Enjoy Recreation Built Into Your New Lifestyle

Your incentive package is designed to help you experience what locals love most about living here. You’ll receive a 

one year family membership to the Lunda Community Center

, offering fitness facilities, indoor tracks, and space to stay active year round.

annual family pass to the Hoffman Aquatic Center

, giving you direct access to hiking trails, lakes, beaches, and some of the clearest water in the state.

In Black River Falls, nature isn’t something you plan around, it’s part of your everyday life. Spend your lunch break walking a quiet trail, your evenings on the water, or your weekends exploring forests, parks, and local events. With a slower pace, friendly atmosphere, and easy access to outdoor recreation, it’s a place where remote work feels more balanced and rewarding.

Learn more below about relocating to Black River Falls and starting your next chapter here.

Build your remote career while embracing the natural beauty of Black River Falls, where scenic forests, clear lakes, and winding rivers create endless opportunities for hiking, paddling, and year-round outdoor adventure, all within a welcoming and connected community.

Black River Falls

Live & Work Remote in Black River Falls

1-year family membership to Lunda Community Center

Punch Card for 18-hole rounds of golf at Skyline Golf Course

Annual family pass to the Hoffman Aquatic Center

Live, Work Remote, and Belong in Eau Claire

Ready to take your remote career somewhere that offers more connection, more balance, and more opportunity?

Eau Claire welcomes remote workers with a relocation incentive package designed to help you build community, grow your network, and feel at home from day one.

Working remotely doesn’t mean working alone.

Through this program, you’ll have access to coworking space, networking events, and leadership opportunities that introduce you to the people and organizations shaping Eau Claire.

Meet fellow professionals at hosted meetups, connect with the Young Professionals network, and build relationships through Chamber programming that helps you feel rooted in your new home.

Choose Experiences That Fit Your Lifestyle

Remote workers can select one additional experience packages that reflect their interests — whether that’s family activities, arts and culture, or sports and recreation.

Eau Claire Country Club Social Membership

In Eau Claire, you can start your day focused and productive, then step away to enjoy trails, rivers, live music, or a vibrant downtown food scene.

With short commute times, welcoming neighborhoods, and an active community, it’s easy to build a routine that supports both your career and your wellbeing.

Learn more below about Eau Claire County.

Work remotely while feeling truly connected in Eau Claire — a creative, welcoming community where career growth, outdoor adventure, and meaningful connections come together.

Eau Claire

Live & Work Remote in Eau Claire

House Hunting Hotel Stay on us While you Search for your new Home

Bi-monthly Mover Meet ups to get Connected and meet other new Residents

Membership to the Young Professionals Network

Chamber of Commerce Membership for Career Support and Networking

Pick one additional incentive package: Arts & Entertainment Package, Family Package, or Sports Package

Live, Work Local, and Belong in Eau Claire

Ready to find a career somewhere that offers more connection, more balance, and more opportunity?

Eau Claire welcomes those who are not only looking to move, but looking to secure a new local job, with a relocation incentive package designed to help you build community, grow your network, and feel at home from day one.

You won't only meet those at your job, you'll meet other residents and start feeling at home right away when you move through the Live & Work Local program in Eau Claire.

Through this program, you’ll have access to networking events and leadership opportunities that introduce you to the people and organizations shaping Eau Claire.

Local job seekers can select one additional experience packages that reflect their interests — whether that’s family activities, arts and culture, or sports and recreation.

Work locally and feel truly connected in Eau Claire — a creative, welcoming community where career growth, outdoor adventure, and meaningful connections come together.

Live & Work Local in Eau Claire

Experience the Magic of French Lick, Indiana

Tucked into the rolling hills of Southern Indiana, French Lick blends historic elegance with everyday charm. Home to the world-renowned French Lick Resort and the iconic West Baden Springs Hotel, the town buzzes with live music, local dining, championship golf, and spa getaways—all set against a backdrop of natural beauty. Beyond the resort scene, you’ll find a warm and welcoming community with walkable streets, family-run shops, and easy access to outdoor adventures in Hoosier National Forest or on the slopes of nearby Paoli Peaks. Whether it’s catching a concert, hiking a wooded trail, or chatting with neighbors downtown, life in French Lick moves at a pace that feels both relaxed and full of possibility.

Explore the Perks of Life in French Lick, Indiana 

French Lick blends resort-town luxury with small-town charm. Residents enjoy easy access to outdoor adventures in Hoosier National Forest, family-friendly skiing at nearby Paoli Peaks, and a steady calendar of local festivals and community events. With a welcoming atmosphere, rich history, and stunning natural surroundings, French Lick offers a lifestyle that’s equal parts relaxing and rewarding. From relocation support to lifestyle perks, we’ve assembled a collection of benefits to help you settle in, make connections, and thrive in French Lick from day one: 

Receive $5,000 to help cover your moving costs toOrange, Daviees, Greene, Crawford, Martin, or Dubois County–making settling into your new Southern Indiana home a smooth and stress-free experience.

Check Out Orange County and the Other Counties in Our Choose Southern Indiana Program

This county is the home of French Lick, Indiana. With the French Lick Resort and historic West Baden Springs Hotel, Orange County is a tourism hotspot with a rich cultural heritage. Residents benefit from economic growth, natural beauty, and a wide variety of recreational opportunities.

With a small-town feel and big-time amenities, this Southern Indiana resort community has a little something for everyone. See shows, and play golf at the French Lick Resort and Casino, head over to Hoosier National Forest, or slice the slopes of nearby Paoli Peaks. Fun, friendly and affordable, and now offering $5,000 plus a host of extra perks for a few lucky transplants to make a move.

Move to French Lick

Free guided tour behind the scenes at the Pakota Lake Winery

Free visit to the Wilstem Ranch Drive-Through Safari

Tickets for two to dinner and musical at Abbeydell Hall

Migrate to greener pastures in this Southwest Indiana community. Greene county is home to vast outdoor retreats, year-round activities and salt-of-the-earth neighbors you'll connect to right away.

Greene County

Migrate to greener pastures in this Southwest Indiana community. 

Greene County is home to vast outdoor retreats, year-round activities and salt-of-the-earth neighbors you'll connect to right away.

Join other birdwatching enthusiasts as the cranes descend on Goose Pond. Enjoy a vast network of trails and parks. Throw down at one of the many community festivals.  Feel the thrill of hometown sports.

Greene County has terrific schools, a low cost-of-living, and quick connectivity to big-city amenities all around.   

Plus, for a limited time, qualified transplants will receive $5,000 relocation stipend and a host of other amenities.

Move to Greene County

Michigan Centered: For Central Michigan University Graduates

What if the best place to launch your next chapter is right where you already are?

 program is your invitation to stay rooted and rise strong in the heart of the state. Designed for soon-to-be and recent graduates of Central Michigan University, this initiative helps you build a life—not just a resume—in Mt. Pleasant and the surrounding Middle Michigan region.

Up to $1,500 reimbursement to help with rent, mortgage, childcare, and other qualifying expenses associated with graduating and starting out on your own!

A Morey Courts gym membership to stay active and well

Financial planning assistance from a local bank to set you up for long-term success

Membership in the Young Professionals Network to build your career connections

An Isabella County Parks Pass to explore the region’s natural beauty

Built-in community connections to help you get involved and feel at home

Middle Michigan is full of energy, opportunity, and heart. From lively festivals and serene trails to career-building jobs and supportive neighbors, this region offers the best of both campus life and community living.

You're not alone here. Through our partnership with Epicenter Mt. Pleasant, you’ll get to know other young professionals—including inspiring alumni from the local 40 Under 40 list—who are making a difference and building lives they love in this place.

If you're looking for more than just your next job—and want to build a life where you’re seen, supported, and centered—

Middle Michigan Development Corporation is proud to introduce Find Yourself Michigan Centered—a new program designed for soon-to-be graduates of Central Michigan University who are ready to grow their future in the heart of the state. This is more than just a relocation program—it’s an invitation to launch your life where opportunity meets community.

Mount Pleasant

Up to $1,500 reimbursement to help with rent, mortgage, childcare, and other qualifying expenses

Martin County, IN, is a rural county located in the southern part of the state, known for its lush forests, rolling hills, and abundant wildlife. The county's landscape provides ample opportunities for outdoor recreation and exploration, including fishing, hunting, hiking, and camping. The area's natural beauty and serenity attract those seeking a peaceful, low-key lifestyle away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

The county's residents are known for their tight-knit communities and friendly nature. With a small-town atmosphere, residents often look out for one another, whether it's lending a helping hand or simply striking up a conversation. Despite its rural setting, the county boasts a strong sense of community and a thriving social scene, with a variety of local events and activities to enjoy.

Martin County is home to a number of small towns, each with its own unique character and charm. From the historic architecture of Loogootee to the friendly atmosphere of Shoals, residents have a wide range of options for living and working. For remote workers, the county's slower pace and lack of traffic make it an attractive option for those seeking a more relaxed lifestyle.

In terms of amenities and services, Martin County offers all the necessary resources for daily life, including grocery stores, healthcare facilities, and schools. Despite its rural setting, residents have access to high-speed internet, making it a viable option for remote workers.  Come join us in Martin County!

Martin County is home to a number of small towns, each with its own unique character and charm. From the historic architecture of Loogootee to the friendly atmosphere of Shoals, residents have a wide range of options for living and working. In terms of amenities and services, Martin County offers all the necessary resources for daily life, including grocery stores, healthcare facilities, and schools. Despite its rural setting, residents have access to high-speed internet, making it a viable option for remote workers.  Come join us in Martin County!

Loogootee

Move to Martin County

Careers & Coastlines: Discover Southwest Michigan

From the sandy shores of Lake Michigan to historic downtowns and rolling vineyards, Southwest Michigan offers big-city opportunities wrapped in small-town charm. Here, it’s not just about finding a job—it’s about loving where you live. Whether you're a young professional, a growing family, or a seasoned expert ready for a change, the Discover Southwest Michigan program helps you move with purpose. It’s your chance to launch your future or plant roots in a vibrant, close-knit community where careers grow, coastlines inspire, and quality of life comes standard.

Explore the Perks of Life in Southwest Michigan

From the sandy shores of Lake Michigan to charming small towns and vibrant downtowns, Southwest Michigan offers a lifestyle that’s both relaxed and full of opportunity. Known for its scenic beauty, affordable cost of living, and strong sense of community, the region blends lakefront living with career growth, cultural events, and outdoor adventures. With award-winning schools, friendly neighborhoods, and a welcoming spirit, it’s an ideal place to plant roots. Whether you’re looking to buy your first home, continue your education, or raise a family, our relocation benefits are designed to help you thrive in Southwest Michigan from day one:

$5,000 in Downpayment Assistance for First Time Homebuyers OR $2,500 in Rental Assistance: 

Get a head start on homeownership with a $5,000 incentive to put toward your first home purchase in Berrien, Cass, or Van Buren County—helping you plant roots and invest in your future. If you plan to rent, there's support for you too through $2,500 in rental assistance! 

Wherever you land in the region, you’ll get a custom tour of your new hometown led by a local! From coffee shops and parks to neighborhoods and schools, we’ll make sure you feel oriented and excited about your new community.

Free College Tuition at Lake Michigan College For Eligible Students: 

If you or your family members are eligible, take advantage of free tuition at Lake Michigan College—a respected local institution offering strong academic programs and career pathways, all within reach.

One-on-One Help Enrolling Your Kids in School: 

Moving with kids? We provide personalized support to help you find the right school for your child, navigate enrollment, and get them set up for success from day one—whether public, private, or charter.

Have a Partner? We’ll Help Them Plug In, Too: 

We know a move affects more than one person. If you have a partner, we’ll work with them to explore job opportunities, social groups, and community connections—so everyone feels supported in the move.

Looking for your next adventure and your next job? Discover Southwest Michigan, where career opportunity meets lakeside living. This program connects job-seekers with custom community tours, up to $5,000 in down payment help, spousal job support, and even free college tuition at Lake Michigan College. You’ll also get help enrolling your kids in school—and yes, there’s even dinner with the mayor. Whether you’re just starting out or ready for a fresh chapter, this is your chance to build a career and a life you love.
Make your move—Southwest Michigan is ready to welcome you.

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