10 U.S. Cities That Are Paying Remote Workers up to $15,000 to Move There in 2026
Remote work has loosened the tie between where you earn and where you live, and some U.S. cities are leaning into that shift. Instead of chasing new employers, they are courting people who already have jobs. In 2026, an increasing number of towns and small cities are offering cash incentives, housing assistance, and practical benefits to make relocating easier. The headline money gets attention, but the appeal runs deeper. These places offer breathing room, manageable costs, and a daily rhythm that feels sustainable throughout the year. Here are 10 cities making that case.
Bentonville, Arkansas
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The offer in Bentonville is often framed as up to $10,000, with additional perks such as bike incentives and access to the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art. The city has built miles of bike trails that connect neighborhoods to offices and cafés. Many remote workers who are moving from larger metropolitan areas cite shorter commutes and more time outdoors as the biggest change. Bentonville’s population growth over the past decade shows that the strategy is working.
Tulsa, Oklahoma
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A $10,000 grant paid in installments anchors the Tulsa Remote program in Tulsa. Participants also receive a year of coworking access to support networking without the need for long commutes. Broadband speeds in the city regularly exceed 250 Mbps, which is particularly beneficial for video-intensive jobs. Program data indicate a retention rate of around 95%, suggesting that most individuals remain engaged well beyond the initial requirement.
Topeka, Kansas
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Homebuyers in Topeka can qualify for up to $15,000 through the Choose Topeka program, while renters typically receive $5,000. Housing prices sit well below the national median, which stretches salaries further. The city emphasizes long-term settlement, and many applicants are families focused on predictable monthly costs. Fiber internet availability across large parts of the town supports full-time remote work.
Morgantown, West Virginia
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Outdoor credits paired with up to $12,000 make the Ascend WV program in Morgantown feel like a lifestyle shift. West Virginia University adds a college-town energy that keeps coffee shops busy on weekdays. Trails and rivers are situated just minutes from downtown, which shortens the gap between work and recreation.
Bemidji, Minnesota
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Bemidji offers up to $5,000, along with coworking credits for remote workers willing to relocate. Life here often revolves around Lake Bemidji, where walking paths and easy public access become part of the daily routine in every season. Winters are severe, with January highs hovering around 20°F, which suits people who are comfortable with cold climates. Many newcomers say the slower pace and quieter setting help them concentrate better.
Newton, Iowa
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Reliable, symmetrical fiber internet reaching speeds up to 2 Gbps is available citywide, a standout feature for a town of this size. The program is tied to a new housing development designed to support long-term stability after years of manufacturing job losses. Remote workers often mention easier routines, shorter local travel, and predictable schedules as everyday advantages. To support new homeowners, the city offers a $10,000 incentive tied to purchasing a home.
Rochester, New York
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Closing-cost assistance of up to $9,000 draws attention to Rochester. Median home prices remain significantly lower than those in nearby coastal metros, which supports homeownership goals. The city supports a diverse mix of tech, research, and creative jobs, attracting talent from outside the area. Many remote workers report more precise boundaries between work hours and personal time after relocating.
Montpelier, Vermont
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Smaller grants and home office support define the approach in Montpelier. Community engagement is a core expectation, with networking groups and local events tied to the incentives. Vermont winters slow down daily life, which influences work schedules and routines. Remote workers often appreciate the consistency that comes from a small capital city with a stable population.
Paducah, Kentucky
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Relocation incentives of around $6,500 support moves to Paducah. The arts-focused downtown includes the National Quilt Museum and a walkable riverfront. Housing costs remain well below the national average, which lowers financial pressure for newcomers. Many participants highlight neighbor interactions as a key reason for staying in the area.
Helena, Montana
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Incentives of $2,500 or more help offset moving costs in Helena. The surrounding mountains and public land access play a greater role than financial incentives in attracting applicants. Average commute times remain under 15 minutes, which supports flexible workdays. Remote workers often report improved productivity after the move, citing fewer daily distractions.