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Community Guides - Living & Moving to New Cities

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"Purdue is the big draw for people coming from all over the world. The diversity is important to us, to really expand our horizons and see the benefit of learning from other cultures and understanding more about ourselves."

Matt Jorgensen and Kayla Sis

Moved to Greater Lafayette

"It's a place that you feel like you can really get to know people.”

Years ago, as their families moved to West Lafayette, Indiana, a group of women connected in raising their young children. Now, the group continues their friendship in a completely different way - through a regular book club.

Patti O’Callaghan

West Lafayette Resident

Forming a Book Club in West Lafayette

“Having children, the affordability, the cleanliness, and the safety outweigh the oceans and the mountains.”

Mike Dunkle

The Story of North Chauncey Avenue

"When we met with our friends from Boston, they said out of all of the places they’ve lived, Lafayette felt most like home. And that’s always stuck with me, and I agree with that."

Lindsay Mason

Entrepreneur and Business Owner

"We're really establishing a community family."

"The campus is beautiful and the community here is diverse. I was able to find people from different backgrounds and people similar to mine."

Merwan Abdelmajeed

Remote Worker

Diversity and Community makes Work from Purdue an attractive program

"This museum records a pivotal event, in not only local history, but national history. People have been coming here since the 1820s, possibly even before that."

Dr. Trey Gorden

Tippecanoe Battlefield Museum Manager

The story of Indiana's oldest tourist destination

West Lafayette

Sitting just across the Wabash River, an hour northwest of Indianapolis, lies West Lafayette, Indiana, home of Purdue University. Rich with tradition, West Lafayette has grown into a vibrant and innovative Midwestern community. You’ll find eclectic shopping, quaint coffee shops, and local restaurants and breweries to go along with beautiful parks and miles of scenic walking and bike trails. Whether you’re looking for a thriving arts and culture scene or a hub for like-minded entrepreneurs and innovators, West Lafayette is a city focused on bringing people together.

Sitting just across the Wabash River, an hour northwest of Indianapolis, lies West Lafayette, Indiana, home of Purdue University. Rich with tradition, West Lafayette has grown into a vibrant and innovative Midwestern community. Purdue University is building a first-of-its-kind community of (and for) remote workers. Come live on campus, access university resources and network with builders, business folks and boilermakers of all stripes. Select candidates will receive a $5,000 relocation stipend* that can be applied to moving costs, housing, co-working space, childcare and more. 

Sitting just across the Wabash River, an hour northwest of Indianapolis, lies West Lafayette, Indiana, home of Purdue University. Rich with tradition, West Lafayette has grown into a vibrant and innovative Midwestern community. You’ll find eclectic shopping, quaint coffee shops, and local restaurants and breweries to go along with beautiful parks and miles of scenic walking and bike trails. Whether you’re looking for a thriving arts and culture scene or a hub for like-minded entrepreneurs and innovators, West Lafayette is a city focused on bringing people together.

Work from Purdue

Purdue University is building a first-of-its-kind community of (and for) remote workers. Come live on campus, access university resources and network with builders, business folks and boilermakers of all stripes. Select candidates will receive a $5,000 relocation stipend* that can be applied to moving costs, housing, co-working space, childcare and more. 

*For more information, visit the Work from Purdue website at www.workfrompurdue.com.

Why Work from Purdue?

• Live in a vibrant neighborhood of innovation, collaboration, and togetherness.
• Gain access to multiple resources and activities on-campus.
• Become a part of a continuously growing and developing community.

Program Benefits

• $1,000-$5,000 stipends for select, qualified candidates who relocate to live & work in Discovery Park District.
• Networking events, professional development programming, and entrepreneurial services through the Foundry.
• 50% discount on Touchdown Desk membership at Convergence co-working space.
• Special access and discounts on new housing developments (i.e. The Century).

In addition, you’ll receive discounts on select continued education programs through Purdue Online, gain a free membership with the Greater Lafayette Commerce, and discounted gym memberships at Parkwest Fitness.

NEWS: WalletHub has ranked West Lafayette No. 8 overall on its list of 2022’s Best College Towns & Cities in America.

Work from Purdue

Up to 10% off Moving and Storage with PODS

"Where can I begin to describe the Work From Purdue program. The experience has been wonderful and Deanna has gone beyond her way to make your experience the best it can be. As an avid nature lover, it is nice to be able to traverse walking trails with my dogs, and there is no shortage of those. The energy is in the air as the campus is lively, yet at the same time you can carry on in your own little world if you choose to. What has been the best experience for us so far is the dedication Deanna has and motivation to make you feel welcomed! Go Boilers!!! Chooo Chooo!"

Jimmy Mena

"The pandemic prompted my employer to go fully remote in mid 2020. While I appreciated the flexibility and time savings that came with working remotely, I was missing physically being part of a vibrant and dynamic community. Since I moved to West Lafayette as part of the Work From Purdue program, I’ve been meeting other amazing WFP candidates (many of whom have become my new friends) at its programmatic events, living amidst Purdue University’s dynamic intellectual environment, and getting increasingly involved in the West Lafayette community. And, I‘m loving it!"

Shahil Shrestha

“I love the diversity that the students bring here to the community. The place is vibrant because you get these people from all places abroad and all places here in the United States. It’s a good combination.”

Earl Bicar

Moved to West Lafayette

“I’m able to spend a lot more time on my business because I was commuting over an hour in Boston. Here, I can walk to my office. It’s really nice. If I forget something in my office on the weekend, I can just go grab it. That was never a thing I could do before.”

"I love living in downtown Lafayette. There are so many great restaurants, bakeries and boutiques within walking distance of my apartment. Working remotely for Purdue University, it’s so nice to have a few different coffee shops to choose from when I need a change of scenery. Summertime is particularly fun with the different festivals that take place downtown, plus the Farmer’s Market when that’s in season. It’s such a great place to be!"

Ashlee Shroyer

Social Media Manager, Purdue University

“People are more neighborly. It’s just a little different because there’s more space here, there’s more time, so that’s a nice benefit. The housing market was pretty good here. I can actually afford a house and I don’t even need a faculty salary to do that.”

Monique McClain

Purdue Grad

"My setup here is pretty perfect. Being connected to Purdue and living in a college town means I have access to an intellectually stimulating environment and so many great amenities."

Lokesh

“Culturally, it’s a really rich community. We have over 160 pieces of public art in our greater Lafayette Area and we regularly hear that it makes people feel more welcome. We believe our public art is reflective of our community and the diverse backgrounds of the people that live here.”

Tetia Lee

CEO, The Arts Federation

"What I’m excited about is the activity and engagement. Purdue Research Foundation, along with the city of West Lafayette and Purdue University, are building a "Live, Work, Play, Learn" environment, with everything within walking distance of Purdue University."

Ethan Kingery

Convergence Center Property Manager

“There’s more natural beauty here than I thought on first impression. I’ve spent a lot of time at Prophetstown Park. It’s a nice place to walk, and I’ve taken some really nice photos there. There’s tons of wildlife.”

Zach Beauvais

Greater ROC

Great Minds, Great Ideas Propel Greater Rochester Forward

"I followed my heart to Rochester."

Located at the confluence of Lake Ontario, the Erie Canal, and the Finger Lakes, Greater Rochester spans nine counties, more than a million people, and New York State’s fourth-largest city. With big city assets and small-town connectivity, Greater Rochester has it all. Close to major markets without the major market expense, the region boasts real estate costs well below major metros and one of the nation’s shortest commutes. And as New York State’s fastest-growing midsized metro in 2021, it’s no wonder Rochester ranked #5 on Ownerly’s list of America’s Best Cities for Remote Workers. Greater Rochester is a foodie’s paradise, recognized as one of the country’s top cities for food, home to one of America’s leading wine regions, and one of the world’s top-10 beer destinations according to VinePair.com.

Rochester

Located at the confluence of Lake Ontario, the Erie Canal, and the Finger Lakes, Greater Rochester spans nine counties, more than a million people, and New York State’s fourth-largest city. With big city assets and small-town connectivity, Greater Rochester has it all. Close to major markets without the major market expense, the region boasts real estate costs well below major metros and one of the nation’s shortest commutes. And as New York State’s fastest-growing midsized metro in 2021, it’s no wonder Rochester ranked #5 on Ownerly’s list of America’s Best Cities for Remote Workers. Greater Rochester is a foodie’s paradise, recognized as one of the country’s top cities for food, home to one of America’s leading wine regions, and one of the world’s top-10 beer destinations according to VinePair.com. Named one of America’s “Top Minor League Markets” by Sports Business Journal, Rochester boasts teams for every taste. And with more than 140 festivals each year – from the Rochester Lilac Festival into the Rochester International Jazz Fest, Fringe Fest, Finger Lakes Wine Festival, and ROC Holiday Village, you’re sure to stay busy. Still have energy? Visit the Rochester Public Market, tour the Memorial Art Gallery, take in a performance by the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, and let your inner kid run wild at The Strong National Museum of Play.

Remote workers that move to the Greater Rochester region are eligible for up to $19,000 in grants, including up to $10,000 in relocation reimbursement and up to $9,000 in homebuyer incentives!

Located at the confluence of Lake Ontario, the Erie Canal, and the Finger Lakes, Greater Rochester spans nine counties, more than a million people, and New York State’s fourth-largest city. With big city assets and small-town connectivity, Greater Rochester has it all.

Remote workers that move to the Greater Rochester region are eligible for up to $19,000 in grants, including up to $10,000 in relocation reimbursement and up to $9,000 in homebuyer incentives!

Located at the confluence of Lake Ontario, the Erie Canal, and the Finger Lakes, Greater Rochester spans nine counties, more than a million people, and New York State’s fourth-largest city. With big city assets and small-town connectivity, Greater Rochester has it all. Close to major markets without the major market expense, the region boasts real estate costs well below major metros and one of the nation’s shortest commutes. And as New York State’s fastest-growing midsized metro in 2021, it’s no wonder Rochester ranked #5 on Ownerly’s list of America’s Best Cities for Remote Workers. Greater Rochester is a foodie’s paradise, recognized as one of the country’s top cities for food, home to one of America’s leading wine regions, and one of the world’s top-10 beer destinations according to VinePair.com. Named one of America’s “Top Minor League Markets” by Sports Business Journal, Rochester boasts teams for every taste. And with more than 140 festivals each year – from the Rochester Lilac Festival into the Rochester International Jazz Fest, Fringe Fest, Finger Lakes Wine Festival, and ROC Holiday Village, you’re sure to stay busy. Still have energy? Visit the Rochester Public Market, tour the Memorial Art Gallery, take in a performance by the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, and let your inner kid run wild at The Strong National Museum of Play.

Move to Greater Rochester

Ingleside is a Texas coastal town located on Corpus Christi Bay in the southeastern portion of San Patricio County. Praised for pleasant year-round weather, Ingleside’s ideal temperatures provide numerous outdoor recreational opportunities. At Dolphin Connection Ingleside, embark on a dolphin-sighting voyage, glimpsing pods of bottle-nosed dolphins. Tours depart from Ingleside Cove and travel along the Corpus Christi Channel and Pelican Island. Picnic, hike, bike or fish at one of Ingleside’s six community parks.

Ingleside

Ingleside is a Texas coastal town located on Corpus Christi Bay in the southeastern portion of San Patricio County. Praised for pleasant year-round weather, Ingleside’s ideal temperatures provide numerous outdoor recreational opportunities. At Dolphin Connection Ingleside, embark on a dolphin-sighting voyage, glimpsing pods of bottle-nosed dolphins. Tours depart from Ingleside Cove and travel along the Corpus Christi Channel and Pelican Island. Picnic, hike, bike or fish at one of Ingleside’s six community parks. Cove Park, a five-acre facility, offers direct access to both LaQuinta Channel and the Corpus Christi Bay. N.O. Simmons Park spans more than 13 acres and features a skate park, a mile-long fitness trail and seven soccer fields. Just minutes away, nestled in the Texas Gulf region, sunbathe, build sandcastles and swim at one of Corpus Christi’s beaches, including McGee Beach, North Beach, Mustang Island and North Padre Island. Take a break from the sun and visit the Corpus Christi Museum of Science and History, which highlights more than 500 years of South Texas history. Explore exhibits featuring shipwrecks, prehistoric predators and prey, as well as coastal ecology. As night falls, head back to Cove Park and enjoy a gorgeous sunset overlooking the Corpus Christi Ship Channel before taking the kids to sleep tight story time at the Ingleside Public Library. A half-hour drive southwest, the Corpus Christi International Airport offers non-stop flights on three major airlines to many popular destinations. 

Haydon Harris

Manager of Daddy O's Music

The story of Stillwater's Red Dirt music scene

Tim Holland

General Manager, Eskimo Joe's

What is the Red Dirt Relief Fund?

Red Dirt Relief Fund

2019 Gypsy Cafe Music Festival

A Taste of Gypsy Cafe Music Festival

Bobby Wintle

Co-owner of District Bicycles

Why Stillwater is the perfect biking community

Amelia Chamberlain

Executive Director of the Stillwater History Museum

Stillwater's History Museum and the downtown cultural district

Trenton Inselman

Brewer at Iron Monk Brewing Co

Life as a brewer in Stillwater, Oklahoma

Known as America’s Friendliest College Town, Stillwater offers a diverse and welcoming community. Home to Oklahoma State University, Stillwater residents can cheer on the Cowboys, tour the Botanical Garden at OSU, and take in a concert at McKnight Center for the Performing Arts. Stillwater is also the birthplace of Red Dirt music, a genre of country music that derives its name from the color of the soil. Any remote worker who buys a home within the Stillwater city limits qualifies for a $5,000 incentive along with an immersive experience into the Red Dirt music scene.

Stillwater

Known as America’s Friendliest College Town, Stillwater offers a diverse and welcoming community. Home to Oklahoma State University, Stillwater residents can cheer on the Cowboys, tour the Botanical Garden at OSU, and take in a concert at McKnight Center for the Performing Arts. Explore the Downtown Stillwater Cultural District to find art galleries, community centers, museums, and the Stillwater Public Library. Browse unique shops, like 405 Mercantile and All Around Cowgirl Boutique on Main Street in the Historic Downtown Stillwater District, then swing by Aspen Coffee Company for an espresso and a snack. When it’s time to eat, check out Eskimo Joe’s “Jumpin’ Little Juke Joint” or Bad Brad’s BBQ for the best BBQ in Oklahoma. Stillwater offers splash pads, a skate park, Lost Creek Safari, and more for the little ones, while adults will love the nightlife at The Salty Bronc Saloon and Zannotti’s Wine Bar. Stillwater hosts several unique annual events like the Calf Fry at the Tumbleweed Dancehall and the Mid South, a gravel cycling and running endurance challenge. Located on the north side of town, Stillwater Regional Airport offers daily round trip flights to Dallas/Ft. Worth International Airport.

Any remote worker who buys a home within the Stillwater city limits qualifies for a $5,000 incentive, along with free coffee for a year (a $2k value) from Aspen Coffee - Fountain Square, as well as a free month of classes for adults and children — including the uniform to get you started! The Stillwater chamber will also add gifts from local restaurants, stores, coffee shops, and more!

Finally, music fans will receive an immersive experience into the Red Dirt music scene, born right here in Stillwater. You'll get a Red Dirt music tour of the sights and sounds of the city with your guide, legendary Red Dirt musician and Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame inductee John Cooper. You'll also receive free tickets to a live concert at Stillwater's famed Tumbleweed Dance Hall and two tickets to the Gypsy Cafe Music Festival. Then, swing by Daddy O's Music Store downtown to be presented with a free t-shirt and swag.

Home to Oklahoma State University, Stillwater is a small and tight-knit community that prides itself on its ability to feel like home. Located centrally between both Oklahoma City and Tulsa, Stillwater offers access to the big city attractions, while providing a small-town feel. We are offering a $5,000 incentive to any remote worker who buys a home within the Stillwater city limits, along with free coffee for a year (a $2k value) from Aspen Coffee - Fountain Square, and a free month of classes for adults and children including the uniform to get you started! The Stillwater chamber will also add gifts from local restaurants, stores, coffee shops, and more.

Home to Oklahoma State University, Stillwater is a small and tight-knit community that prides itself on its ability to feel like home. Located centrally between both Oklahoma City and Tulsa, Stillwater offers access to the big city attractions, while providing a small-town feel. 

We are offering a $5,000 incentive to any remote worker who buys a home within the Stillwater city limits, along with free coffee for a year (a $2k value) from Aspen Coffee - Fountain Square, and a free month of classes for adults and children including the uniform to get you started! The Stillwater chamber will also add gifts from local restaurants, stores, coffee shops, and more.

Finally, music fans will receive an immersive experience into the Red Dirt music scene, born right here in Stillwater. You'll get a Red Dirt music tour of the sights and sounds of the city with your guide, legendary Red Dirt musician and Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame inductee John Cooper. You'll also receive free tickets to a live concert at Stillwater's famed Tumbleweed Dance Hall and two tickets to the Gypsy Cafe Music Festival. Then, swing by Daddy O's Music Store downtown to be presented with a free t-shirt and swag.

Photo of The Mid South bicycle race by 241 Photography

Move to Stillwater

$5,000 down payment assistance for homebuyers

Red Dirt Music Tour with legendary musician John Cooper

Free tickets to a live concert at Tumbleweed Dance Hall

Free tickets to Gypsy Cafe Music Festival

Mohammad Mahmoud

Owner of Granny’s Kitchen

Founding board member of the Red Dirt Relief Fund

John Cooper

Vocalist for Red Dirt Rangers

Stacy DeLano

Director at Stillwater Public Library

Sara

Social Media Analyst at Kicker

Keller

A northern suburb of Fort Worth, Keller lies within Tarrant County, a portion of the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. Immerse yourself in one of two business districts, historic Old Town Keller or the Urban Keller Town Center, before exploring one of Keller’s 11 outdoor recreational areas spread across 336 acres. Walk one of several park trails while viewing sculptures within the Art in the Parks program. Discover artistic talent through the Keller Public Arts program, which contains 15 permanent sculptures and a changing art gallery at Keller Town Hall. Enjoy aquatics, athletics, fitness programs, and summer camps at The Keller Pointe, a family friendly recreational facility featuring a 16,970-square foot aquatics center, complete with indoor/outdoor pools, water slides, lazy rivers, and a splash pad. Check out Keller Notarium and join swimming or diving lessons, water aerobics, or lifeguard certification courses. Hungry from all that activity? Dine at unique, locally owned restaurants and enjoy a night on the town, whether it’s an after-dinner wine tasting or a couple’s dance class. Less than 30 minutes away, the Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport offers flights to many popular destinations including Orlando, Fresno, Atlanta, Chicago and Phoenix.

Dallas

Located in northeastern Texas, Dallas is a friendly and diverse community with countless opportunities for big entertainment and adventure. Visit the Dallas Historical Society for a look into the city’s past, or check out the largest urban arts district in the country for local culture and creativity. Play a few rounds at Stevens Park Golf Course, take a stroll along the Fair Park Esplanade, or enjoy kayaking, hiking, nature trails, and more at Trinity River Audubon Center. Find luxury brands, dining, and entertainment at Galleria Dallas, or browse boutiques like Chantilly and Lula B’s in the Design District. The Dallas restaurant scene offers world-class dining for every taste, from international gems like Maya’s Modern Mediterranean to the Texas classics at Record’s BBQ. Catch some live music at The Bomb Factory, sip cocktails on the patio at Foundation Room, then dance the night away at Cowboys Red River. Sports fans can cheer on major league teams like the Dallas Cowboys, Texas Rangers, Dallas Mavericks and more. Locals celebrate food, culture, and community with annual events like the Deep Ellum Arts Festival, the Dallas Holiday Parade, and Dallas Blooms, the largest floral festival in the Southwest. Located on the northwest side of the city, the Dallas Fort Worth International Airport offers direct flights to New York, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, and popular destinations around the world. 

Beckley

Nestled along the Appalachian Mountains in southern West Virginia, Beckley is a small, welcoming town full of culture and recreation. Learn about the city’s history at the Wildwood House Museum, or take an underground mine tour at The Exhibition Coal Mine. Explore Tamarack Marketplace to find unique artisan treasures, then check out boutiques like Sugar Maple Roots and Blue Magnolia for the latest fashion trends. Beckley’s culinary scene is rich and diverse, from the classic Italian favorites at Pasquale’s to the fresh new tastes of The Dish Cafe. Take in a show at Theatre West Virginia or the Beckley Concert Association, then relax with a locally crafted beverage at Bridge Brew Works or Weathered Ground Brewery. Visit New River Gorge National Park for kayaking and rock climbing, then unwind with some amazing views and dramatic scenery at the Grandview Overlook. Residents celebrate the history and culture of the region at the annual Appalachian Festival, and enjoy local produce, entertainment, and community at the weekly Farmer’s Market every summer. Located less than an hour from Beckley, the Greenbrier Valley Airport offers direct flights to Chicago, Baltimore, Washington, D.C., and more.

Nestled along the Appalachian Mountains in southern West Virginia, Beckley is a small, welcoming town full of culture and recreation.

Remote Workers are hardworking individuals who are disciplined in what they do and have a fresh outlook on life. This is why the City of Beckley is offering you $5,000 and more to come be a part of our community.

Nestled along the Appalachian Mountains in southern West Virginia, Beckley is a small, welcoming town full of culture and recreation.

Remote Workers are hardworking individuals who are disciplined in what they do and have a fresh outlook on life. This is why the City of Beckley is offering you $5,000 and more to come be a part of our community.

We are excited to welcome you, your family, and all of your talents!

Cash:
$5,000 Total

-Option 1) $1,500 (first payment; month 1), $750 (month 6), $750 (month 12), $750 (month 18), $1,250 (Final Payment; month 24)
-Option 2) $2,000 (first payment; month 1), $500 (month 6), $750 (month 12), $500 (month 18), $1250 (Final Payment, month 24)

Free Outdoor Recreation:
-Beckley’s Historic Black Knight: 18 holes of golf for two
-Daniel Vineyards: Self Guided Tour and Disc Golf
-Exhibition Coal Mine: 4 passes
-Lake Stephens: 2 water park day passes
-Mountaineer Discs: Free Disc
-Re-sort at Glade Springs
-River Expeditions: Whitewater Rafting Trip for two
-Youth Museum of Southern WV: one year family membership

Housing
Connection to Featured Realtors:
-Old Colony Realtors
-Glade Springs Real Estate Company
Mortgage Offer:
-$2,000 Credit towards closing costs (mortgages over $100k)
-$1,250 credit towards closing costs (mortgages under $100k)
-Website

Free Co Working Space:
-Cozy work spaces, Wi-Fi, copier-scanner, complimentary coffee
-Beckley’s Historic Black Knight

Social Programming:
-Outdoor Community Volunteering
-Networking Events

Move to Beckley

Connection to Featured Realtors and Mortage Offer

Located in Western Michigan, Grand Rapids is a thriving city with endless opportunities for entertainment and adventure. Stroll around downtown to see historic buildings and outdoor sculptures, or visit the Native American burial mounds in Millenium Park. Often called “River City,” Grand Rapids is home to four rivers for swimming, fishing, and boating, or try hiking, biking, or snowmobiling along one of the city’s many trail systems. Shop for trendy fashions at Basic Bee Boutique, find the perfect gift at Periwinkle FOG, or discover new and vintage music at The Corner Record Shop.

Grand Rapids

Located in Western Michigan, Grand Rapids is a thriving city with endless opportunities for entertainment and adventure. Stroll around downtown to see historic buildings and outdoor sculptures, or visit the Native American burial mounds in Millenium Park. Often called “River City,” Grand Rapids is home to four rivers for swimming, fishing, and boating, or try hiking, biking, or snowmobiling along one of the city’s many trail systems. Shop for trendy fashions at Basic Bee Boutique, find the perfect gift at Periwinkle FOG, or discover new and vintage music at The Corner Record Shop. Foodies will love Grand Rapids’ world class dining options, including coffee and beignets at Cafe Mertens, retro-style diner favorites at Anna’s House, and gourmet classics at The Kitchen by Wolfgang Puck. Take in a show at The Circle Theatre or DeVos Performance Hall, dance to live music at The Intersection, then enjoy a locally made beverage at one of Grand Rapids’ many craft breweries. Grand Rapids celebrates food and culture with unique annual events like Festival of the Arts, World of Winter Festival, and the International Wine, Beer, and Food Festival. Located on the southeast side of Grand Rapids, Gerald R. Ford International Airport offers direct flights to New York, Chicago, Orlando, and more.


West Virginia is a state of extreme beauty, including 2,032 miles of whitewater (the greatest density of whitewater in the country), 1.5 million acres of public land (state parks and forests and the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve), and 4000+ roped and bouldering routes.  There may be no better place for an outdoor enthusiast than West Virginia.  Beyond the natural beauty of the state, you’ll find amenities and institutions usually identified with larger metropolitan areas.  The state boasts historic resorts like the Greenbrier and is home to a variety of arts and culture (local galleries, museums, and performing arts venues).  It is known for authentic mountain music with a distinct Appalachian sound that owes to influences from folk, bluegrass, gospel and more.  There are one-of-a-kind historical destinations and 44 colleges and universities of varying sizes and types.

The state of West Virginia is leading the way in recruiting remote workers seeking a lifestyle steeped in outdoor recreation and adventure with a sense of community connection and shared purpose.  If this sounds appealing to you, look no further.  The program is described below and in the individual offer pages for specific regional areas.

“Ascend WV is a talent attraction and retention program designed to support remote professionals and their families as they relocate to West Virginia in pursuit of high quality of life and an outdoor-driven lifestyle. Experience work-life balance through community, purpose, and the outdoors in the mountains of West Virginia.”

Ascend WV was founded with a “shared vision for innovation and a deep love for the mountains of West Virginia.”  In 2022, Brad D. Smith returned to his mountain home after a very successful career in Silicon Valley.  He became the 38th president of Marshall University while he and his wife Alys, an accomplished attorney, undertook significant philanthropic work that includes this recognized talent attraction and retention program.  Mr. Smith credits West Virginia as the foundation for his own success and wants to share the place he loves with others.  As Ascend WV says, “let our country roads take you home to the place you belong.”


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

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

Morgantown

The Morgantown Area really has it all.  Enjoy all the positives of a college town, with the energy and activities of the West Virginia University campus in Morgantown, located in one of the fastest growing counties in the state.  The Monongahela River and Cheat Lake offer fishing, water sports, and beaches for relaxing.  Hiking opportunities are everywhere with hundreds of miles of trails.  You can walk, run, bike, or even in-line skate for 48 miles on Morgantown’s acclaimed “Rail Trail.”  The area has a great education system, highly rated healthcare, and scores of different housing options, from single family homes with acreage to more urban spaces.  Everything you need is right here in the Morgantown Area, with a high quality of life for a low cost of living, and yet it is a quick hop to five major metros when you yearn for the big city.

If you choose the Morgantown Area, you’ll be welcomed by local ambassadors who know the local food scene, 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.  It won’t take long to settle in to an area with such warmth and vibrancy to share.


Move to Morgantown

City of Ruston

Ruston, Louisiana

This Is Ruston

Ruston

Located in North Louisiana, Ruston & Lincoln Parish is known for its lively college-town atmosphere, 22-block historic downtown district, thriving arts culture, scenic outdoor attractions, and the incredibly sweet peaches grown here. The area is home to both Louisiana Tech University and Grambling State University and boasts a variety of specialty shops, delicious restaurants, and outdoor hunting opportunities.

Downtown Ruston is the heart of the City. Ruston is a Louisiana Historic District and one of only 34 Louisiana Main Street Communities.  

As a Main Street America™ Accredited program, Ruston Main Street is part of a national network of more than 1,200 neighborhoods and communities who share both a commitment to creating high-quality places and to building stronger communities through preservation-based economic development.

Ruston Main Street is the economic engine and core of our community.  It is where residents and visitors alike come together for fun and fellowship.  It is the thriving core of our community with unique shopping, great restaurants, and beautifully restored buildings.  Downtown Ruston, and specifically Railroad Park, is host to a number of activities and events.  

Ruston Main Street is home to an active group of business owners who are engaged with the community.  They hold monthly Downtown Community meetings to discuss the continued development of Downtown Ruston.

Rated as one of the best mountain bike trails in America, Lincoln Parish Park is a treasure for mountain bike lovers and noncyclist too. The 10-mile trail offers a challenging and exciting course for not only the advanced rider but beginners as well.

Park amenities include covered pavilions, picnic tables, and benches throughout the park. A 1.25-mile walking path winds around the beautiful lake. Guests can fish from piers or from non-motorized boats. Kayaks and canoes are welcome.

Located in North Louisiana, Ruston & Lincoln Parish is known for its lively college-town atmosphere, 22-block historic downtown district, thriving arts culture, scenic outdoor attractions, and its incredibly sweet peaches. The area is home to both Louisiana Tech University and Grambling State University and boasts a variety of specialty shops, delicious restaurants, and outdoor hunting opportunities.

Located in North Louisiana, Ruston & Lincoln Parish is known for its lively college-town atmosphere, 22-block historic downtown district, thriving arts culture, scenic outdoor attractions, and its incredibly sweet peaches. The area is home to both Louisiana Tech University and Grambling State University and boasts a variety of specialty shops, delicious restaurants, and outdoor hunting opportunities.
 
The community is offering an enticing incentive package for remote workers who relocate to Ruston, including a $10,000 grant and much more!

Program Benefits:

 - $10,000 grant awarded over a 3-year period.

- Free lifetime Alumni Foundation membership for returning Louisiana Tech University and Grambling State University graduates.

- Discounted University Athletic Events.

- Community Liaison to assist with move-in and community connections.

Move to Ruston

$10,000 grant awarded over a 3-year period

Free lifetime Alumni Foundation membership for returning Louisiana Tech University and Grambling State University graduates

Community Liaison to assist with move-in and community connections

Located in western Kansas, Garden City is a thriving community offering small town charm and big city culture. Learn about the city’s past at the Finney County Historical Museum, then take a walking tour of downtown Garden City to get a close-up look at some of the most notable historic spots. Spend a day enjoying Lee Richardson Zoo or playing in Finnup Park, then cool off at the Grand Rapids Aquatic Center.

Garden City

Located in western Kansas, Garden City is a thriving community offering small town charm and big city culture. Learn about the city’s past at the Finney County Historical Museum, then take a walking tour of downtown Garden City to get a close-up look at some of the most notable historic spots. Spend a day enjoying Lee Richardson Zoo or playing in Finnup Park, then cool off at the Grand Rapids Aquatic Center. Browse for unique gifts at The Corner on Main, or try on some trendy fashions at the Blue Fox Boutique. Foodies will love Garden City’s dining options, from the gourmet mac and cheese at Pinky’s Grilled Cheestro to the 1950s soda fountain at Traditions Soda. Check out some local artists at the Mercer Gallery, explore evidence of notorious unsolved cases at the True Crime Exhibit, take in a show at the Garden City Community Theatre, then top it all off with a locally crafted beverage at Flat Mountain Brewhouse. Garden City celebrates history and community with unique annual events like the Tumbleweed Festival, Beef Empire Days, and the Rooster Roundup pheasant hunting contest. Located on the city’s southeast side, Garden City Regional Airport offers daily service to Dallas/Fort Worth for easy access to popular destinations.

Patty Drabing

Director, French Lick West Baden Museum

The day I drove into town, I fell in love with it

Mindy Rogers

Visit French Lick West Baden

It's easy to get involved in French Lick

Famed in the later 1900s as a “spa town” due to its sulfur springs, French Lick West Baden, Indiana, has always attracted people from across the nation to its idyllic community. Though the population may seem small, the attractions it offers rival many much larger cities, thanks to the beautiful French Lick Resort and Casino featuring two golf courses, a fine dining steakhouse, and a top-rated spa – and that’s just the start!

French Lick

Famed in the later 1900s as a “spa town” due to its sulfur springs, French Lick West Baden, Indiana, has always attracted people from across the nation to its idyllic community. Though the population may seem small, the attractions it offers rival many much larger cities, thanks to the beautiful French Lick Resort and Casino featuring two golf courses, a fine dining steakhouse, and a top-rated spa – and that’s just the start! There are plentiful shops and restaurants, museums, and fun activities for the little ones (or more adventurous adults) at nearby Holiday World & Splashin' Safari as well as many outdoor attractions, trails, state parks, a scenic railway, and a wildlife encounter experience. Year-round, French Lick West Baden is hopping with things to do – car shows, demo derbies, holiday-themed family events, not to mention a jam-packed concert schedule. Those who call French Lick home often work for major employers including French Lick Spring Resort & Spa, West Baden Springs Hotel, Electricom Llc, Paoli Peaks, and others. French Lick and its beautiful surrounding communities offer everything you could possibly want and so much more. 

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.

*Applicants must currently reside outside of Indiana and be a U.S. military veteran.

Move to French Lick

4 tickets to Arctic Blast Tubing Park at Paoli Peaks

1 lifetime membership to Lost River Market & Deli grocery cooperative

1 round of golf for 2 at Donald Ross Golf Course

1 annual pass to Indiana Department of Natural Resources state parks

Jessi Etienne

Bear Hollow Wood Carvers

Julie Montgomery

French Lick Winery

Steve White

Owner, White's Quality Auto Service

Located in the Gulfport of Mississippi, Harrison County was voted America’s Most Affordable Beach Town in 2018 by Realtor.com. Don’t be fooled into thinking affordability means lack of amenities. Besides having some of the best white-sand beaches, Harrison County is also known for its downtown nightlife, superb museums, bike trails, world class libraries, symphony, theatre, casinos and golf courses. In fact, they have 15 golf courses! If you're a foodie, look no further. Known for some of the best seafood in the country, you will find everything from casual dining all the way up to the finest of restaurants. If all of that is not enough, Harrison County is known as a wonderful place to raise a family.

Duncanville

Duncanville, nicknamed the “City of Champions”, sits just outside of the Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan area and carries much history, even with its plentiful modern amenities. The Texas Historical Commission has designated the City of Duncanville as an official Main Street City and recognition of its involvement in WWII still stands through a monument and other pieces of the city’s history can be found in Dunvancille Historical Park. While the community attracts many types of businesses and careers, the top industries include Retail Trade, Health Care & Social Assistance, and Educational Services. People of all ages love the outdoor offerings that the community provides – parks, hiking trails, outdoor concerts and movies, the beautiful Recreation Center, and the Duncanville Fieldhouse. Family events are hosted throughout the year to ensure fun for all ages. The city’s slogan sums it up well: “The perfect blend of family, community and business!”

Fulshear

Rural charm just minutes away from bustling Houston and Sugar Land, but without the congestion? Sounds too good to be true, but “Small Town Charm meets Urban Sophistication” is exactly what makes Fulshear so unique and inviting. The city limits of Fulshear stretch across approximately 10 square miles of beautiful landscape including rolling terrain dotted with century-old hardwoods, grassy prairie land, and serene low lands along the banks of the Brazos River. Primarily a farm and ranch community with a growing commercial district (the town has boomed since 2010 when the population was a mere 400), Fulshear offers its residents a relaxed, country lifestyle with the convenience of being minutes from major shopping, dining, and entertainment venues. Fulshear boasts a premier address featuring the highest per capita income and educational attainment in the area, but equally offers a town rich in history.

Anela Malik

Moved to Northwest Arkansas

Fayetteville

Combining a small-town vibe with the buzz and excitement of a lively college town, Fayetteville consistently ranks in the U.S. News and World Report’s top five best places to live in America. Home to the University of Arkansas, thousands of alumni join students every Saturday throughout the fall to cheer on the immensely popular Arkansas Razorbacks football team. Fayetteville provides countless outdoor recreational opportunities, from cycling the 37-mile Razorback Regional Greenway to camping and fishing at nearby Lake Fayetteville, a 600-acre lake and park. The Historic Fayetteville Square, notably Dickson Street, is home to several buildings on the National Register of Historic Places and serves as the main entertainment district offering unique bars and restaurants; as well as George’s Majestic Lounge, the oldest live music venue in Arkansas. From November through January, Fayetteville decorates the Square with over 500,000 LED lights for the annual Lights of the Ozarks. Located 30 minutes away, the Northwest Arkansas National Airport offers direct flights to several major cities, including Los Angeles, Chicago, and New York City.

We are a small town with modern sensibilities—close-knit, yet global. We welcome 30 new faces a day, from across the country and the globe, and we’re better for it. As a community, we work hard to create space for all to connect and share their stories, exchange ideas, and to be at home.

Move to Northwest Arkansas

Dan Ridenour

Mayor of Muncie

“We would love to welcome you here”

Dale Basham

Mr. Muncie

It's all just around the corner in Muncie, Indiana

Richard Ivy

Deputy Mayor of Muncie

"I believe Muncie is a great place because of the people"

Geoffrey Mearns

President of Ball State University

"Discover for yourself what Muncie has to offer"

Olivia Fellows

Ball State University Alum

Finding your place in Muncie, Indiana

Haley Brocki

"Muncie is a great place for young professionals"

Amanda Reninger

"There’s a lot of opportunity for growth and getting involved in the community"

"Somewhere Between Louisville and Mayberry"

Muncie hosts Ironman 2021

Laura Hill shares why she thinks Muncie is a special place to live

Jen Hense talks about her move to Muncie from the Chicago suburbs

Hoosier Hospitality can be found around every corner in Muncie, Indiana. 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.

Hoosier Hospitality can be found around every corner in Muncie, Indiana. 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. A revitalized downtown area offers an abundance of shopping opportunities and fresh, local restaurants. Muncie’s craft beer renaissance has been spearheaded by Elm Street and Guardian Brewing, both of which deliver distinctive flavors and welcoming tap rooms. The Cornerstone Center for the Arts provides opportunities for creative expression and educational programs, while the Muncie Ballet and the Muncie Symphony Orchestra bring the local performing arts scene to life. The vibrant community coupled with affordable housing and bountiful cultural and recreational opportunities make Muncie a perfect place to put down your roots.

The Muncie Afghan Refugee Resettlement Committee (MARRC) was created in 2021 to welcome refugees from Afghanistan, many of whom helped our country’s military effort against Al-Qaeda and the Taliban. So far, Muncie has welcomed multiple refugee families from Camp Atterbury to become currently integrated in the community. 

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West Lafayette

Grand Rapids

Harrison County

Houston

Huntingburg

Huntington Beach

Indiana County

Ingleside

Iowa City

Ithaca

Jenks

Keller

Kissimmee

Kosciusko County

Lafayette

Lancaster

Las Vegas

Lea County

Make an Offer

New Offer Updates

Before you move
Learn about your next community