Move to the Mountain Towns of Eastern Kentucky
Total Incentive
$5,700
Description
Let the Mountains Move You in Eastern Kentucky
Nestled in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, Eastern Kentucky blends the state’s bluegrass heritage with the rugged beauty of mountain living. Towering peaks, rolling valleys, and vibrant seasonal foliage create a backdrop unlike anywhere else, while welcoming communities make it easy to feel at home. Whether you’re exploring scenic trails, enjoying local music, or connecting with neighbors at festivals and events, The Mountain Towns of Eastern Kentucky offer a way of life where nature, culture, and community come together.
Settle Into Eastern Kentucky
Choosing a new place to call home is a big step, and in Eastern Kentucky, you’re not just relocating—you’re joining a community steeped in tradition, creativity, and Appalachian pride. Our Welcome Home to Eastern Kentucky Program makes your transition seamless and inspiring by offering unique incentives designed to help you settle in, explore our culture, and experience everything this region has to offer.
💵 $5,000 Cash: That’s right—we’ll pay you to relocate and become part of our community in Eastern Kentucky.
🎁 Custom Welcome Package: Select a personalized welcome experience designed around your passions—whether you’re a foodie, history buff, outdoor enthusiast, golfer, or art lover. Options include:
- Culinary Delights: Savor the flavors of Eastern Kentucky with visits to local favorites along the Country Music Highway, including Lizzie B’s Café Bakery, Melini Cucina, Smokin’ J’s, Gerber’s Restaurant, and The Winchester.
- Historical Tours: Step into the region’s rich past with curated experiences such as East KY Elk Tours, a visit to Loretta Lynn’s homeplace, Carter Caves tours, Black Mountain Off-Road Adventures, and the East Kentucky Science Center.
- Outdoor Adventures: Hike, bike, or ride ATVs through some of the nation’s most scenic trails, like Hidden Trail, Cascade Trail, Tanglewood Trail, Pine Mountain Trail, Lakeside Trail, Pine Ridge Trail, and Raven Rock Trail
- Arts & Entertainment: Experience live performances, concerts, and cultural events at iconic venues like the Paramount Arts Center and the Mountain Arts Center.
Bringing a Partner? We've got you covered!
🛄 Dedicated Job Search Assistance: We'll connect your partner with local employers to enable their search for a job in Eastern Kentucky.
🧑⚕️🧑🏫 Bonus $2,500 Incentive: If your partner secures a qualifying job in education or healthcare, you'll receive an extra $2,500! This means more cash in your pocket to start your new life together in Eastern Kentucky.
Meet Latasha—your dedicated program manager. Latasha is a born-and-raised Eastern Kentuckian who 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.
Eligible counties include Bell County, Clay County, Harlan County, Jackson County, Knott County, Leslie County, McCreary County, Owsley County, Perry County, Rockcastle County and Whitley County.
Eligible Places
Eastern Kentucky is currently recruiting remote workers who:
Are employed full-time and able to relocate while retaining their current position, or
Are self-employed and able to relocate while retaining their current clients/portfolio
Currently reside outside of Kentucky
Must be a U.S citizen eligible to work in the U.S.
Must be 18 years or older
Can relocate primary residence to Eastern Kentucky within 6 months
Earn at least $70,000 annually
In order to be considered by Eastern Kentucky, you must provide proof of the above eligibility criteria
Wait just a second while we retrieve your eligibility status for this program.
Other Details
Program Categories
How It Works
This community is participating in the MakeMyMove on-platform application process. Apply in a few minutes. You’ll receive a response to your application, and will have access to a team to help along the way.
1. Apply
Fill out our fast application form to share your information and why you’re interested in making a move.
2. Get Pre-Approved
Qualifying applicants will receive an introduction to the local sponsors of the program who will answer your questions, and help you decide if the community is the right fit.
3. Confirm Eligibility
Once you’ve been selected, we’ll confirm your eligibility for the program and facilitate a formal offer from the community.
4. Accept and Make Your Move
Accept your offer to reserve your spot in the program, and let us know when you arrive to receive the incentive.