The prevalence of remote work in today’s workforce is higher than ever as more people transition to working from home. Not only are companies trying to attract remote workers to fill their open positions, but cities and states are also trying to get remote workers to move into their borders.  

From Tulsa’s $10,000 grant to Alaska’s Permanent Fund Dividend and Vermont’s Remote Worker Grant, there are many options for nomadic folks who work remotely. 

Many of the locations have a relatively low cost of living and exciting communities, which only add to the draw for remote workers. Check out these five cities and states if you want to make the most of your remote job.

1. Topeka, Kansas

Topeka is a family-friendly town in eastern Kansas that wants workers to relocate there to boost economic development. They run a program called Choose Topeka, in which qualifying remote workers can receive up to $10,000 compensation for moving to Topeka. Remote workers that buy a home in Topeka receive $10,000 compensation, and those who rent can qualify for $5k in funds. 

According to Bob Ross, the vice president behind the Choose Topeka program, the city provides these incentives because they want to show potential workers they are serious about supporting their needs. The incentive paired with the low cost of living is enough to attract new talent to the city. 

Beyond the incentives of the Choose Topeka Program, Topeka has many museums, restaurants, and shops for residents to enjoy. There are also many outdoor recreation opportunities at Lake Shawnee and the miles of maintained paths.

2. Tulsa, Oklahoma

Tulsa combines southern hospitality, art deco architecture, and significant incentives for full-time remote workers to create an excellent destination for remote workers looking to move. The local government created the Tulsa Remote program, which offers 10,000 dollars to full-time remote employees that move and buy a home in Tulsa.  

Beyond the monetary incentive, the Tulsa Remote program provides free workspace in a cowork office and community events for members. To qualify, you just need a full-time remote job, the plan to move to Tulsa in a year, be 18 years or older, and be eligible to work in America. 

3. Alaska

All residents in Alaska receive a yearly stipend from the government. The money originates from oil company royalties and is spread evenly amongst the population. In 2021, the Permanent Fund Dividend amounted to a $1,114 check. 

While not exactly a remote work incentive, remote workers who don’t mind the cold can qualify for the dividend by becoming Alaskan residents. To do so, you must intend to live in Alaska for an indefinite period or if you entered the state for a job. 

The advantage of moving to Alaska over other locations in the United States is that the dividend pays out every year, so the total monetary gain will surpass other incentive programs over time. The state is also home to many outdoor recreation opportunities and offers a wide range of cultural activities in Anchorage. 

4. West Virginia 

West Virginia is a beautiful destination for East Coast vacationers and remote workers alike. Pair that with the significant monetary benefits of moving there, and it becomes a hot relocation spot for anyone with a remote job. 

The state pays new residents $12,000 over two years just for moving to West Virginia. That money has no strings attached, unlike a tax credit or a grant for a new home. You can spend it on anything from student loans to a down payment on a new home.

To qualify, you only need to work full time on a remote job, be able to move to West Virginia within six months of acceptance, and be a US citizen. Remote tech workers looking to escape busy and expensive cities can find reprieve in the mountains of West Virginia. There are many outdoor recreation activities, like mountain biking and white water rafting. 

5. Vermont

Known as a superb vacation location and home to many cute small towns, Vermont offers remote workers up to $7,500 to move to the state. You qualify as long as you have a full-time position that pays above their living wage of $13.39 an hour and recently moved to Vermont. Eighteen cities in Vermont qualify you for the full $7,500, and two cities qualify residents for a $5,000 grant. 

Meet the Remote Job Requirement 

If you are itching to move and want to take advantage of these incentives, you will need to get a remote job. Remote jobs demand unique digital dexterity skills and an understanding of many online programs like Slack. 

Start your remote job search with Jobsfuel.com, a job aggregator with a job search tool that connects you to open positions. Check out the blog page for information on all things related to the job search, like interview tips, resume construction, and cover letter advice.