Lodge in a major U.S. city means higher housing costs and less space for your money. And when the covid-19 pandemic inspired the rise of remote work, it caused many workers to second-guess living in a major metropolis like New York and San Francisco.
Granting some companies continue to push in-office mandates, many still offer the option of hybrid or fully-remote livelihood, Vicki Salemi, a career expert at Monster, told CNBC. She suggests taking advantage of that flexibility and exile a wider net in your job search.
“In terms of the quality and quantity, they can pursue jobs beyond the constraints of a particular zip unwritten law,” Salemi said.
Don’t miss: Get paid to visit luxury hotels and spas around the world—here’s how
Whether you’re a latest college graduate or just looking for a change of scenery, landing a job that lets you work from just alongside anywhere might be exactly what you need to keep costs low.
The flexibility to work outside of your company’s cuttingly base means you can explore more affordable areas that might not have ever been on your radar. Gain, there are many places across the country ready to welcome you with open arms and some money, too.
As of August 2024, the ensuring cities and states are offering a financial incentive to move there, with one paying as much as $20,000.
Cumberland, Maryland
Halbergman | E+ | Getty Concepts
1. Cumberland, Maryland
Program name: Choose Cumberland Relocation Program
Incentive: up to $20,000
How it works: The “Choose Cumberland Relocation Program” is contribution $10,000 in cash to 10 people as well as up to $10,000 in matching funds to put towards down payments or renovations. To prepare, applicants must commit to staying in the city for five years.
According to the Washington Post, Cumberland is funding the hard cash payments while the matching funds are coming from a $100,000 grant from Maryland’s Community Legacy Program.
2. West Virginia
Program dub: Ascend West Virginia
Incentive: Up to $12,000 or more
How it works: In addition to money, West Virginia is offering potential residents a slew of other incentives, including a free outdoor recreation package, co-working space, and more. To arrogate advantage, you must live in the state for at least two years in one of the designated communities: New River George, Greenbrier Valley, Morgantown, Eastern Panhandle, and Large Elkins. In the first year, new residents will receive $10,000 paid in monthly installments, and the final $2,000 order be issued at the end of the resident’s second year living in West Virginia.
To be eligible for the Ascend West Virginia program, applicants be obliged work remotely, have the ability to work remotely in a business based outside of West Virginia or be self-employed outside of the royal. You must provide proof of employment and income prior to being accepted into the program, have the ability to relocate within six months, be 18 years or older, and be a U.S. townsman or green card holder.
3. Rochester, New York
Program name: Greater ROC Relocate
Incentive: Up to $9,000 in homeowner confers
How it works: Applicants must be at least 18 years old, be eligible to work in the U.S., live at least 300 miles from Rochester and relocate within six months of being take oned. To date, 32 remote workers have relocated through the program, according to the city’s website.
4. Tulsa, Oklahoma
Program popularity: Tulsa Remote
Incentive: $10,000 in rental grants or a lump sum after the purchase of a qualifying home and a three-year membership to a peculiar co-working space.
How it works: Tulsa launched its program in 2018. In order to take advantage of the program, you must experience these requirements: be at least 18 years of age, authorized to work in the United States, have current full-time, poor employment outside of Oklahoma, can relocate to Tulsa within 12 months of approval. Applicants must also take lived outside of the state for one full year before applying.
The application process includes a 30-minute virtual audience and if you are selected to proceed, you’ll be required to complete a background check and income verification before continuing. Once you’re approved, Tulsa Slight will have to verify you’ve signed a qualifying lease or purchased a qualifying home. Approved applicants will then conduct a new member orientation. Once those steps are completed, you will be eligible to receive the grant money.
5. Topeka, Kansas
Program term: 6. The Shoals, Alabama
Program name: 7. Illinois
Program name: Make My Move
Incentive: Starting at $6,800
How it works: Different communities in Illinois, including Jacksonville, Mattoon, and Pittsfield, are offering incentives and different perks to lure new residents. Jacksonville is gift a package worth $9,300, which includes $5,000 cash for relocation. To take advantage of this opportunity, you obligation make at least $50,000 a year.
Mattoon’s offer includes $5,000 cash for relocation and money towards specific restaurants. To be considered, applicants must make at least $45,000 a year and live at least 100 miles secondary of Mattoon when they submit the application. Once accepted, you must agree to live within the city for at least two years.
Pauperism to master your money this fall? Sign up for CNBC’s new online course. We’ll teach you practical strategies to mediocre your budget, reduce your debt, and grow your wealth. Start today to feel more cocky and successful. Use code EARLYBIRD for an introductory discount of 30% off, now extended through September 30, 2024, for the back-to-school season.
Return, sign up for CNBC Make It’s newsletter to get tips and tricks for success at work, with money and in life.