10 States That Pay You to Move There in 2025

Did you know some states will actually pay you to move there? It’s true! With labor shortages and declining populations in certain areas, states are rolling out financial incentives to attract remote workers, potential business owners, and new residents.

Whether you're looking for a fresh start, a lower cost of living, or just want to take advantage of free money, here are 10 states that pay you to move there!

1. West Virginia

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $923
• Average home value: $163,434
• Cost of living index: 79.4
• Great for: Outdoor lovers, remote workers, scenic mountain views

West Virginia’s Ascend WV program offers up to $12,000 in cash plus a year of free outdoor activities. If you love hiking, skiing, and being surrounded by beautiful scenery, this could be a great place to call home. The program is designed for remote workers looking for a change of pace and a lower cost of living.

2. Oklahoma (Tulsa)

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $884
• Average home value: $199,876
• Cost of living index: 85.3
• Great for: Affordable city living, entrepreneurs, networking opportunities

The Tulsa Remote Program gives $10,000 in cash, plus access to co-working spaces and networking events. It’s perfect for remote workers who want big-city amenities without the big-city price tag. With a growing tech scene and a strong sense of community, Tulsa is an appealing option for professionals looking to relocate.

3. Alaska

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,274
• Average home value: $366,633
• Cost of living index: 116.5
• Great for: Adventure seekers, nature lovers, financial incentives

Alaska’s Permanent Fund Dividend pays residents an annual sum just for living in the state. In 2024, the payout was about $1,300 per person—a nice bonus for those who don’t mind colder weather and wide-open spaces. Alaska also has no state income tax, making it a solid choice for those looking to keep more of their paycheck.

4. Kansas (Topeka)

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $808
• Average home value: $183,928
• Cost of living index: 80.0
• Great for: Families, job seekers, homebuyers

Topeka’s Choose Topeka program offers up to $15,000 for professionals willing to move there. Whether you’re renting or buying a home, this incentive makes the city even more affordable. Topeka has a growing job market, good schools, and a welcoming community—perfect for families and young professionals alike.

5. Iowa (Newton)

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $886
• Average home value: $179,439
• Cost of living index: 77.7
• Great for: Small-town charm, first-time homebuyers, quiet living

The Newton Housing Initiative offers up to $10,000 toward home purchases in Newton, Iowa. If you’re looking for an affordable, friendly place with a slower pace of life, this could be a great fit. Newton has great local parks, a strong sense of community, and a cost of living that’s much lower than the national average.

6. Arkansas (Northwest Arkansas)

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $900
• Average home value: $355,616
• Cost of living index: 89.8
• Great for: Outdoor enthusiasts, remote workers, growing business hubs

The Life Works Here program in Northwest Arkansas offers $10,000 in cash plus a free bike to new residents. The area is home to Walmart’s headquarters and has a booming job market, making it an appealing place for professionals. With bike trails, hiking spots, and a growing tech industry, it’s a great mix of work and play.

7. Ohio (Hamilton)

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $997
• Average home value: $276,027
• Cost of living index: 87.5
• Great for: Recent graduates, remote workers, suburban living

Hamilton, Ohio’s Talent Attraction Program Scholarship offers up to $15,000 to college graduates who move there. If you’ve got student loans, this could be a great way to pay them off faster while living in an affordable city just outside of Cincinnati.

8. Michigan (Detroit)

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,104
• Average home value: $73,156
• Cost of living index: 91.8
• Great for: Entrepreneurs, creatives, revitalization efforts

Michigan’s Move to Michigan program helps attract remote workers and entrepreneurs by offering financial incentives (including up to $15,000 toward a new home), job connections, and community support. The program focuses on bringing talent to smaller communities that are looking to grow. If you’re looking for an affordable place with plenty of business opportunities and a lower cost of living, Michigan could be a great fit.

9. Alabama

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,028
• Average home value: $224,911
• Cost of living index: 84.1
• Great for: Small-town living, remote workers, warm weather

The Shoals Area Remote Worker Program in Alabama offers $10,000 in cash to remote workers who relocate to the Shoals region. This area includes cities like Florence and Muscle Shoals, known for their rich musical history, scenic river views, and low cost of living. If you’re looking for a charming Southern town with a relaxed pace of life, Alabama could be a great fit.

10. Georgia (Columbus)

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,040
• Average home value: $157,861
• Cost of living index: 78.0
• Great for: Remote workers, affordable living, Southern charm

Columbus, Georgia's MakeMyMove program in Columbus, Georgia, offers up to $5,000 to remote workers and those moving for full-time jobs to help with relocation expenses. Columbus is an affordable city with a growing job market, scenic riverfront, and a welcoming community. It's a great spot for anyone looking for a relaxed lifestyle with a mix of modern amenities and Southern charm.

Should You Take Advantage of These Offers?

If you’re thinking about relocating, these programs can give you a financial boost. Before making the move, consider things like job opportunities, cost of living, climate, and lifestyle. Some programs have specific requirements, so be sure to check the fine print before packing your bags.

Final Thoughts: States That Pay You to Move There

If you’re ready for a change, why not get paid to move? These states are looking for new residents and offering real money to make it happen. Whether you’re a remote worker, a recent grad, or just looking for a fresh start, 2025 could be the perfect time to make your move.

FAQs

1. Does Alaska pay you to live there?

Yes, Alaska offers a yearly payment through the Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD) to its residents. In 2024, the payout was around $1,300 per person, funded by the state’s oil revenues. Additionally, Alaska has no state income tax, which can make it financially appealing for residents (source: Alaska Permanent Fund).

2.  What state pays you to relocate?

Several states offer relocation incentives, including:

• West Virginia, which offers up to $12,000 to remote workers via the Ascend WV program.
• Oklahoma (Tulsa), offering $10,000 through the Tulsa Remote program.
• Michigan, which provides up to $15,000 for remote workers and entrepreneurs.
• Kansas (Topeka), with up to $15,000 for professionals moving there

3. What is the average amount offered by relocation incentive programs?

The amount varies by state. For example, West Virginia offers up to $12,000, while Oklahoma's Tulsa Remote program provides $10,000. Some programs also include additional benefits, such as housing stipends, co-working space access, and free activities.

4. What is the #1 cheapest state to live in?

Mississippi is often ranked the most affordable state to live in, due to its low housing costs and overall low living expenses. Other affordable states include Arkansas and Oklahoma.

5. How do relocation incentive programs work?

Relocation programs typically offer cash incentives, housing allowances, or other benefits to help cover moving expenses. To qualify, you generally need to meet specific criteria, such as working remotely, moving for a full-time job, or being a recent graduate. Each state has its own guidelines, so it’s essential to review the eligibility details before applying.