Several U.S. states and cities offer financial incentives, ranging from cash grants to tax breaks and perks, for individuals to relocate, often targeting remote workers or those in specific industries. Top examples include Alaska (annual dividend), West Virginia ($10k+), Oklahoma (Tulsa Remote), and various local initiatives in Kansas, Indiana, and Ohio.
The city of Cumberland, Maryland, offers a relocation package of up to $20,000 (cash plus renovation/down payment match) to attract new residents, especially remote workers, to revitalize the area. While not a state, this specific city program within Maryland provides significant incentives, matching $10,000 cash with up to $10,000 for home improvements or new construction for those moving from outside Allegany County and committing to residency.
States That Pay You to Move
Topeka, Kansas
The incentive is an employer match scheme that focuses on housing costs. If you're renting, it's up to $10,000; for home buyers, it increases to the full $15,000. That means, unlike Tulsa Remote and Ascend WV, this is not a grant you can use freely.
Mankato, Kansas
Mankato is a town of 900 people located in a county of around 3,000 — and if a small-town atmosphere in a rural part of a rural state sounds good to you, you can flock there for free land like the homesteaders of old.
US States That Pay You to Move There
Where Americans Moved in 2025. In 2025, the data revealed inbound migration patterns to states across Southern regions, with a few exceptions. Inbound moves were led by Oregon (65%), West Virgina (62%) and South Carolina (61%).
12 Cheap Ways to Move Out of State
Top Five Places That Will Pay You to Move There Internationally
West Virginia. Famous for more than just its “country roads,” West Virginia offers one of the most lucrative programs to attract new residents to the state. The moving incentive is called Ascend West Virginia, and they're currently accepting applications from people who want to get paid to move.
Who qualifies for the Albinen relocation program? Applicants must be under 45 years old, commit to living in Albinen for at least 10 years, and purchase a property worth 200,000 Swiss Francs or more. They must also meet requirements for Swiss citizenship.
The best states for financial well-being balance low cost of living with strong income potential, often featuring no state income tax, with top contenders including Tennessee, Florida, Texas, and Wyoming for tax benefits and affordability, while Minnesota, Colorado, and Utah offer great median incomes and overall opportunities despite slightly higher costs. Arkansas and West Virginia consistently rank as most affordable overall, but consider factors like job markets and lifestyle fit.
The cheapest way to move out of state is usually a DIY truck rental for larger moves or using your personal car/van for smaller loads, handling all labor yourself to save on movers. Key savings come from decluttering heavily, packing with free supplies, moving in the off-season (winter), and enlisting friends for help. For convenience without driving stress, moving containers or freight trailers can also be cost-effective.
According to recent 2025 reports, Hawaii is consistently ranked as the #1 happiest state in the U.S., praised for high life satisfaction, good health, low depression, and strong economic factors like low unemployment, while Maryland and Nebraska often follow closely behind in top happiness rankings. These rankings, particularly from WalletHub, consider emotional well-being, work-life balance, and community environments.
Ecuador, Colombia, and Peru deliver some of the lowest costs of living and most accessible pension visas in Latin America, where a typical $2,000 monthly Social Security check can comfortably cover housing, healthcare, and everyday expenses.
HUD: The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) offers relocation assistance for individuals moving to affordable housing through public housing or Housing Choice Vouchers. Contact your local public housing authority to apply.