In Cedar Rapids, life is easy—in the best possible way. This family-friendly region offers a rare mix of safety, connection, and opportunity that feels like a throwback to simpler times. Think: neighbors who know your name, kids riding bikes without worry, and a strong sense of community where it’s easy to plug in and make a difference. With a low cost of living, short commutes, and direct access to major employers like Collins Aerospace, BAE, and PepsiCo/Quaker, the region is also a hub of innovation and advanced manufacturing. Just 30 minutes from Iowa City and the University of Iowa, residents can cheer on the Hawkeyes or enjoy world-class arts and entertainment. Plus, with a well-connected regional airport offering direct flights, you're never far from where you need to be.

Cedar Rapids

Cedar Rapids' music scene sets the stage for talent from the area and beyond.

If you live in or visit a big city like New York, Chicago or Los Angeles, having access to world-class musical performances is expected as part of the package. But when considering other notable artsy cities, Cedar Rapids should be on your radar, too. With a population of nearly 140,000, Cedar Rapids has a music scene that’s considered a hidden gem. 

Vibrant twilight urban scene with a lively park gathering, colorful stage lights, and a festive atmosphere in the city.

The image showcases a vibrant urban scene at twilight, featuring a gathering in a park with an open amphitheater. The stage is illuminated with colorful lights, possibly indicating a performance or concert, while a sizable audience appears to be enjoying the event. The backdrop includes a cityscape with tall buildings and a river, reflecting the evening sky's hues.

This setting evokes a sense of community and excitement, as people come together to enjoy entertainment in a lively atmosphere. The twilight colors suggest a transition into night, creating a blend of anticipation and relaxation. Overall, the mood is festive and uplifting, capturing the joy of shared experiences in an urban environment.

The Sound of Music: Cedar Rapids’ Thriving Music Scene

Fast fact: Cedar Rapids is the largest corn-processing city in the world and one of the leading bioprocessing and food ingredient centers in North America. As impressive as that is, Cedar Rapids has many other impressive aspects that help make life happy around here.

Quality of life amenities include museums, two main theaters, 74 parks, four golf courses, six public swimming pools, two major hospitals and Eastern Iowa Airport. Other advantages include top-notch schools, a good transportation network and a pro-business government.

Cedar Rapids is home to 24 Fortune 500 companies, including big names like Cargill, General Mills, Nordstrom, Quaker Oats and Whirlpool. About 300 advanced manufacturing plants have operations here, and the insurance and finance industries keep growing strong, too. Other major sectors are aerospace, biotechnology, defense, education services, food and beverage, health care, IT, packaging and renewable energy.

 is sponsored by the Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance, which is home to a half million creative residents and covers 4,400 square miles in eastern Iowa including the seven county region of Benton, Cedar, Iowa, Johnson, Jones, Linn and Washington counties.

Livability Cedar Rapids

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.

 or connect with the program owner about receiving your program benefits.

The Indy Region is one of the fastest-growing talent hubs in the Midwest. With a thriving job market, affordable living, and vibrant communities across Central Indiana, it’s an ideal place to build a career and a life. Whether you want to work in downtown Indianapolis and live in Westfield, Noblesville, Greenwood, or another nearby community, the region is designed for flexibility and connected living.

Explore local opportunities, learn about the area, and take your next step toward calling the Indy Region home.

The Indy Region is home to leading employers across tech, life sciences, advanced manufacturing, logistics, healthcare, and more. To help you explore openings and target the right opportunities, use these resources:

https://www.makemymove.com/guides/indy-region-in-employment-guide

 — Discover major sectors, top companies, and what it’s like to work here: 

 — Employer spotlights, relocation tools, and more on Life in Indy.

These tools make it easy to explore roles, research companies, and understand where your skills fit in our region’s economy.

We make it simple to pursue local job opportunities and relocate to the Indy Region.


Submit your application to join the Work Local in the Indy Region program.

) to explore roles, connect with employers, and begin applying.


Once you’ve accepted a qualifying job and secured housing anywhere in the Indy Region, you’re eligible to move.


Welcome to the Indy Region! You’ll join a supportive network of residents, employers, and community partners ready to help you thrive.

Curious about finding the perfect home, top-notch schools, and quality childcare in the Indy Region?

 Whether you’re enchanted by the historic charm of Franklin or tempted by the modern amenities of Lebanon, we have all the resources—housing, education, childcare, and more—to make your transition seamless. The Life in Indy Opportunity Map lets you explore local communities and hear real experiences from residents. 

Dive into the site today and start discovering your new home!

This program is sponsored by the Indy Chamber and the Central Indiana Regional Development Authority, with support from the Indiana Economic Development Corporation.

Learn more about the communities that make up the Indy Region below.

Arianna Cruz

Indy Region Resident

Sarah Ford

Whitestown Resident

Build a career you love in a region built for opportunity. The Indy Region makes it easy to find a local job, choose the community that fits your lifestyle, and settle in with confidence.

Indianapolis

Work Local in the Indy Region

Opportunities to connect with networking groups across the Indy Region, customized to fit your interests and goals

6-Month Complimentary Neighbor Club Membership for Verified Home Services

Forty5 Live Music Ticket Pack (including 6 venues)

Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra Ticket Bundle

Indianapolis Indians Ballpark Experience Pack

Looking for a city where you can grow your career 

 your quality of life? Come flourish in Fort Wayne, Indiana — a dynamic, affordable, and welcoming community that's perfect for remote workers seeking more space, more opportunity, and a real sense of belonging.

Fort Wayne offers the best of both worlds: all the connectivity and innovation of a big city, with the charm and comfort of a tight-knit community. Whether you're dialing in from your backyard patio, grabbing a craft coffee between meetings, or exploring over 100 miles of trails after work, you’ll find that Fort Wayne makes remote work 

Make Your Move & Unlock These Incredible Perks!

The Hoosier Homes Plus program offers a major financial advantage with 5% in down payment assistance and closing costs if you move to Allen County and are eligible. With the median home price in the county around $254,000, eligible buyers can receive up to $12,700* (5% of the purchase price) to help cover down payment and closing costs. This assistance makes homeownership more affordable and accessible, reducing the upfront financial burden so you can move into your new home with greater peace of mind.

* This is only an estimate based on median home prices and is not an exact amount until 5% of the purchase price is determined. Learn more at the link here!

One-Year Co-Working Membership at Electric Works

 Remote workers will love the coworking membership at 

, a vibrant innovation campus in Fort Wayne. Enjoy 24/7 access to flexible workspaces, high-speed internet, meeting rooms, and premium amenities—all in a beautifully restored historic building. With onsite dining at Union Street Market, wellness spaces, and a built-in professional community, it’s the perfect place to stay productive and connected.

2 Passes to the Fort Wayne Botanical Conservatory

, a lush indoor escape in the heart of downtown. Explore tropical and desert gardens, seasonal floral displays, and peaceful pathways year-round. It’s a beautiful way to unwind, explore, and connect with nature—right in your new hometown.

Mug Club Membership at Chapman’s Brewing Company (Electric Works Campus)

 Enjoy exclusive discounts, pours, and perks at one of Fort Wayne’s favorite local breweries.

 are your fast track to feeling at home in a new community. These fun, casual events are designed to help newcomers connect with locals, discover favorite spots around town, and build meaningful relationships from day one. 

Whether you're settling down or starting fresh, Fort Wayne is ready to welcome you with open arms and exciting incentives. From financial help to lifestyle perks, it's all here—waiting for you.

Life in Fort Wayne, Indiana offers the perfect mix of opportunity and affordability. As the second-largest city in the state, Fort Wayne features a thriving job market, a low cost of living, and vibrant neighborhoods filled with parks, restaurants, and entertainment. Residents enjoy easy access to top-rated schools, award-winning trails, and a welcoming, community-focused atmosphere that makes it easy to feel at home.

Fort Wayne

Flourish in Fort Wayne

One year co-working membership at Electric Works

Mug Club Membership at Chapman’s Brewing Company (Electric Works Campus Location) 

One week of groceries from the Union Street Market 

1-month Fort Wayne Museum of Art Family Membership

Special invite to Meet Me at 5:05 Networking event

5% in down payment assistance and closing costs for eligible buyers through the Hoosier Homes Plus program 

Build Your Career and Life in Muncie, Indiana

Ready to put down roots in a city that’s growing with you? Muncie and Delaware County offer the best of both worlds: the career access of a regional hub and the neighborly feel of a close-knit community. With a strong base of employers in healthcare, education, and advanced manufacturing, Muncie is a place where your skills are in demand and your quality of life comes naturally. Here, your paycheck stretches further, your commute is shorter, and your next chapter feels within reach.

Muncie offers career paths in several key and growing sectors:


 – Anchored by IU Health Ball Memorial Hospital, one of East Central Indiana’s largest employers, and Meridian Health Services, a leader in behavioral and mental health care. Additional providers like Open Door Health Services offer entry points for both clinical and administrative roles in community-focused healthcare.

 – Ball State University drives much of the region’s innovation and economic stability, offering careers in teaching, research, technology, and campus operations. Ivy Tech Community College and Muncie Community Schools also create steady opportunities for educators and support staff at every level.

 – Muncie’s manufacturing base is thriving, led by Progress Rail (a Caterpillar company) and supported by major employers like Magna Powertrain, CANPACK, and Honeywell. From precision machining and assembly to maintenance and logistics, these roles offer strong wages and opportunities for advancement.

 – For those who want to make an impact, Muncie’s nonprofit sector is especially active. Organizations such as the Youth Opportunity Center and Hillcroft Services provide meaningful work in social services, youth programs, and disability support.

 – First Merchants Corporation, headquartered in Muncie, anchors a growing financial services sector with openings in banking, administration, and technology. Local firms and tech-enabled service providers add to a strong base of career opportunities for professionals.

We know searching for a job can be intimidating and overwhelming. We've created an Employment Guide to help. Explore our recommended job board, industries, employers, and training opportunities in the area.

Discover the Perks of Life in Muncie, Indiana

Nestled in East Central Indiana, Muncie blends Midwestern hospitality with the vibrancy of a college town. Home to Ball State University, the city offers a thriving arts and culture scene, innovative coworking spaces, and a strong sense of community. Residents enjoy a revitalized downtown, scenic trails, accessible public amenities, and affordable living. With cash relocation incentives, access to university resources, coworking opportunities, and community connection programs, we’ve put together a package of benefits to help you get settled, find your place, and start thriving in Muncie from day one:

Receive $5,000 to help with your move to Muncie—whether it’s covering moving expenses, a security deposit, or setting up your new home in this vibrant, forward-thinking city.

Co-working Space Courtesy of The Innovation Connector: 

Work in a professional, entrepreneurial environment with a free workspace at The Innovation Connector, Muncie’s hub for startups, remote workers, and small businesses. Enjoy high-speed internet, networking events, and access to business support services.

Access to the Ball State University Library: 

Get free access to Ball State’s Bracken Library, a top-tier academic library offering a vast collection of digital and print resources, quiet study areas, and research tools perfect for professionals, students, and lifelong learners.

One Semester Rec Fit Pass at Ball State University: 

Stay active with access to Ball State’s state-of-the-art Student Recreation and Wellness Center. The pass includes cardio and weight training equipment, indoor tracks, group fitness classes, and recreational courts.

 Cheer on the Cardinals with discounted tickets to Division I games, including football, basketball, and volleyball. Experience the excitement of college sports and campus energy firsthand.

Help Desk for Connecting to Local Resources: 

Get personalized support from a local help desk designed to connect you to city services, community organizations, child care, job opportunities, and more—so you can settle in smoothly.

Engage with the Muncie community at a deeper level by serving on a nonprofit or civic board. It’s a chance to lend your voice, share your skills, and help shape the city’s future.

Get moving and meet your neighbors with a complimentary six-month membership to the Muncie YMCA, featuring fitness equipment, pools, group classes, child care, and family-friendly programs.

 and personal Muncie welcome guide! 🎉 From the moment you start planning your move, she’ll be there to answer your questions, share insider tips, and make sure you feel right at home. And when you roll into town, expect a warm Muncie-style welcome! 👋

Relocating is a big decision, but you won’t do it alone. This relocation program helps you find employers, supports your move, and introduces you to local leaders and neighbors who want you to succeed. Think: the barista knows your order, neighbors become friends, and connections with networking groups, volunteer opportunities, and local events help you make lifelong connections.

Carla Donahue

Remote Worker

Located in the heart of Indiana, Muncie offers a blend of outdoor recreation, vibrant community, and rich history. The city is home to Delaware County, which boasts numerous parks, including the expansive Prairie Creek Reservoir, perfect for hiking, fishing, and boating. The region’s Muncie Creek provides additional opportunities for fishing and kayaking. Muncie is also home to Ball State University, a hub for innovation, education, and cultural events. With its mix of natural beauty, cultural richness, and educational opportunities, Muncie is the perfect place to live, work, and play.

Muncie

 Live and Work Local in Muncie, Indiana

Co-working space courtesy of The Innovation Connector

Access to the Ball State University Library

1 semester Rec Fit pass at Ball State University

Help Desk for connecting to local resources

• Prevented from creating new community posts and comments

These incredible communities are welcoming remote workers, teachers, nurses and more with incentives and networking programs.

Move to the place that moves you.

Users are automatically given this role when one of their posts is approved

• Community posts no longer require approval

• Can moderate comments on community posts

Your place is calling, and we're here to help you get there

Interested in living in {{formattedLocationText}}? Read local reviews and explore statistics on crime, school systems, real estate, and cost of living.

• Can invite new members to the community

• Can change the roles of other members, excluding Owners

• Can change the roles of all other members

{{formattedLocationText}} - Guide to Living & Working

Post with pictures to get more clicks! 📸

Feel free to add a hashtag to your post in the text box if there is a topic you’d like to add.

If you’d like to include a link, click the chain link icon in the bottom of the text box.

Please share this post on your personal sites and social media.

Lifestyle in Cedar Rapids, Iowa

Tell us about your community

Get Paid to Live in Cedar Rapids, Iowa