Welcome to Shelby County, IA, located in the heart of scenic Western Iowa and centered within the area known as the “Breadbasket to the World”.

Harlan, the county seat, offers a historic downtown square lined with buildings that have been restored and transformed into a variety of local businesses, a farm-to-table restaurant, a 4-screen movie theatre, and multiple antique shops and boutiques.

Harlan is a great place to locate for remote workers. The city has a low cost of living, a strong economy, award winning school districts, a $10 million dollar fitness facility and indoor aquatic center, and a welcoming community.

You can live the relaxed, “Norman Rockwell” lifestyle surrounded by rolling hills and valleys while you are only a 45-minute drive away from downtown Omaha and a 90-minute drive away from Des Moines.

One of the biggest advantages of living in Shelby County is the low cost of living. Affordable housing, locally sourced restaurants, varied grocery store options, easy flowing transportation, and utilities that are below the national average offer residents of Shelby County the opportunity to live a financially comfortable lifestyle.

Shelby County has a strong economy, with a low unemployment rate and a growing number of job opportunities. The area is home to several internationally known manufacturing companies, top-notch healthcare, access to Iowa Western Community College, a fiber-optic network that provides fiber to the home, and a strong technology and agricultural industry. This means that family members of remote workers can find a job that fits their skills and interests.

Harlan offers a wealth of opportunities for families. The city has multiple parks, libraries, and museums. Children can participate in a wide range of sports leagues, a very strong art and theatre culture, and award-winning musical programs. There are numerous community events, activities, and opportunities to volunteer allowing new residents to find several ways to connect with their new community.


Through excellent outdoor recreation opportunities, unique cultural experiences, and an emphasis on activities for families, you will understand why remote workers love calling the communities of Shelby County to be 

Shelby County

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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 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.

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 program 

Muncie is a place for people who find more inspiration in a repurposed historic studio (like the one where Bob Ross filmed) than in a sanitized glass office tower. It’s for the remote worker who’d rather commute via the 62-mile Cardinal Greenway trail than a six-lane highway, and the person who wants to be who wants to be part of the DWNTWN Arts District before it's "discovered." We’re not a one-size-fits-all suburb; we’re a community that thrives on a "Magic City" ethic of reinvention. If you have a DIY spirit and want a seat at the table, we have one waiting for you.

 and personal Muncie welcome guide! Amber works for the City of Muncie, and she's here to answer your questions and help you feel right at home. Simply submit an application to get in touch.

We’ve designed our incentive package to help you plug into the community the moment you arrive.

Unrestricted funds to use however you need—whether it’s covering movers, a down payment, or a shiny new home office setup.

Live like a lifelong learner with access to Ball State University’s Bracken Library, a Semester Rec Fit Pass, and Discounted Athletics Tickets (Go Cardinals!).

Free Co-working Space at 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.

We don't just hand you a check; we hand you a community. Get a 6-month YMCA membership to meet neighbors and an invitation to Local Board Participation to help shape our city’s future.

people have moved to Muncie through MakeMyMove, joining a growing community of newcomers. 

"When we moved to Muncie last August I wasn’t sure what to expect. We came from the Lexington, KY area which we really enjoyed. We have been so thrilled with our decision...there’s not a single thing that we need that Muncie doesn’t have." 

Carla Donahue

Remote Worker

Located just over an hour northeast of Indianapolis, Muncie possesses a small-town college vibe without forgoing big-city amenities. Home to Ball State University, the city features arts and entertainment attractions, sporting events, and unique neighborhoods that offer plenty for the whole family - or just a night out with friends.


Muncie

Live and Work Remote in Muncie

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

Huntington County offers the perfect balance of small-town charm and big opportunities. With a welcoming community, affordable living, and a rich heritage rooted in both history and innovation, it’s a place where you can truly feel at home. Stroll through the historic streets of downtown Huntington, explore unique shops and local restaurants, or enjoy the natural beauty of our parks, trails, and the scenic Wabash River. From lively festivals and community gatherings to a thriving arts scene and a strong sense of local pride, Huntington County is full of connections, character, and possibilities.

Explore the Perks of Life in Huntington County, Indiana

Set along the scenic Wabash River in Northeast Indiana, Huntington County blends small-town warmth with a spirit of growth and opportunity. Residents enjoy friendly neighborhoods, a low cost of living, and a strong sense of community pride. From the historic charm of downtown Huntington to the beautiful parks, trails, and nearby reservoirs, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the outdoors. Arts and culture thrive here too, with local galleries, live performances, and community events bringing people together year-round. Add in vibrant festivals, university sports traditions, and a welcoming atmosphere that greets you at every turn, and it’s easy to see why Huntington County 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 help cover moving expenses, home furnishings, or anything you need to make your transition to Huntington County seamless.

🏕 Free 6-Week Summer Day Camp for Kids Ages 4–14:

 Give your children an unforgettable summer with a free six-week day camp program filled with games, crafts, outdoor adventures, and new friendships.

💪 Free 3-Month Trial Family Membership to the Huntington YMCA:

 Stay active and connected with complimentary access to fitness facilities, group classes, swimming, youth programs, and family-friendly activities for three months.

🎼 Half-Price Private Music Lessons at YMCA Music School:

 Nurture your musical side with 50% off private lessons at the YMCA Music School—perfect for beginners or experienced musicians looking to sharpen their skills.

🏟 Huntington University Family Sports Pass (Up to 4 People):

 Enjoy cheering on the Foresters with free admission for up to four people to a variety of Huntington University home sporting events throughout the year.

🎨 Half Off Your First Workshop at the Huntington Art Center:

 Explore your creativity with 50% off your first art workshop, from painting and pottery to specialty crafts, at the Huntington Art Center.

📚 Huntington City-Township Public Library Access:

 Tap into an incredible collection of 160,000 books, movies, music CDs, audiobooks, video games, events, workshops, and more, all available with your free library card.

 Meet the Mayor over coffee for a warm welcome, a chance to learn about your new community, and an opportunity to share your ideas.

🏠 30% Off a Two-Night Stay at the Purviance House Bed & Breakfast:

 Invite family or friends to visit with a 30% discount on a cozy two-night stay at the historic Purviance House Bed & Breakfast after your move.

The Hoosier Homes program offers a major financial advantage with 5% in down payment assistance and closing costs if you move to Huntington County and are eligible. With the median home price in the county around $180,000, eligible buyers can receive up to $9,000* (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.

 and one of Huntington’s most enthusiastic local guides! He is here to guide you through the community and point out local hotspots, can’t-miss events, and hidden gems, making it a breeze for new movers to dive into Huntington’s fantastic community.

This program is sponsored by the City of Huntington with support from the Indiana Economic Development Corporation

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.

Huntington County, Indiana is a small community located in the northeastern part of the state. The town is surrounded by beautiful parks, lakes, and rivers, making it a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts.  When it comes to local businesses, Huntington has plenty to offer. Including farmers markets, coffee shops, and bookstores.

Huntington County

Head Home to Huntington County

The following incentives are available only to individuals moving to the City of Huntington 

Free 6 week summer day camp for kids ages 4-14

Free 3-Month Trial Family Membership to the Huntington YMCA

Half-Price Private Music Lessons at YMCA Music School 

Huntington University Family Sports Pass  (Up to 4 People)

Half Off Your First Workshop at the Huntington Art Center

Access to 160,000 Books, Movies, Music CDs, Audiobooks, Video Games, Events, Workshops and More at the Huntington City-Township Public Library.

30% Off a Two-Night Stay at the Purviance House Bed & Breakfast for Family/Friends to Visit After Your Move

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Questions & Answers

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What are some housing resources that you'd recommend to new neighbors? I'm thinking: Facebook groups, local realtors, other resources I don't yet know exist!! 👀 Link them here! 👇

Get Paid to Live in Shelby County, Iowa