Cities Giving Away Money to Have People Move There
Despite a constantly growing global population, many towns and cities are facing a different reality: a steady decline in residents. To combat this trend and revitalize their communities, some are taking bold measures, including paying people to relocate.
The following list highlights the unique locations where such creative incentives are helping to build a new future. Read on - your next adventure, or even your next home, might be waiting for you.
Want to Move to Newton, Iowa?
For those who dream of small-town living without sacrificing access to a major metropolitan area, Newton, Iowa, offers an ideal solution. Located just 30 miles east of Des Moines, this community is known for local gems like the serene Newton Arboretum and Botanical Gardens and the thrilling Iowa Speedway.
To further attract new residents and stimulate housing development, the town's city council launched the Newton Housing Initiative. Through this program, individuals who build a new single-family home valued at $240,000 will receive a $10,000 cash incentive!
A New Beginning Awaits in Albinen, Switzerland
For those who have dreamed of living in Switzerland, a unique opportunity awaits in the mountain village of Albinen!
To reverse its declining population, the municipality, in the canton of Valais, is offering a significant financial incentive: CHF 25,000 per adult and CHF 10,000 per child to those who buy, build or renovate a home there.
This generous offer, however, comes with a few strict requirements. New residents must be 45 years of age or younger and must commit to living in the village for a minimum of 10 years. They're also required to invest at least CHF 200,000 into their new property.
Be warned: anyone who moves away before the 10-year period is up must repay the full amount of the grant.
Live Near the Paul Bunyan Statue in Bemidji, Minnesota
While it may not be a household name, Bemidji, Minnesota, offers a vibrant community for those seeking a new home. Located in the northern part of the state, this city is the largest commercial center between Duluth and Grand Forks, North Dakota.
The area is rich in history and culture, serving as the central city for the Red Lake, Leech Lake and White Earth Native American reservations. Bemidji is also famous for its large statues of legendary figures Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox and for being the self-proclaimed "curling capital" of the United States.
To attract new talent and grow its economy, Bemidji is currently offering the 218 Relocate Package to prospective residents. This includes a $2,500 cash incentive to help with moving expenses, as well as a free co-working space and access to the Community Concierge Program, which helps new residents establish and grow businesses.
You Could Live Anywhere in Alaska
Instead of a city-specific incentive, Alaska offers a unique statewide program for all its residents. The Alaska Permanent Fund distributes an annual dividend to every resident, with the amount based on a portion of the state's oil royalties. For a sense of what to expect, the 2018 dividend was $1,600 per person.
Beyond the financial benefits, Alaska offers a unique lifestyle with a host of appealing features. The state has no state income or sales tax, which can lead to significant savings. It's also a world-renowned destination for its exceptional seafood, diverse wildlife and unparalleled views of the Northern Lights.
Tulsa, Oklahoma, is Calling Your Name
As the second-largest city in Oklahoma, Tulsa has a forward-thinking strategy for urban growth. The city is actively attracting new residents who work in remote positions through its nationally recognized Tulsa Remote Program.
The program offers a $10,000 lump-sum payment to qualifying individuals who purchase a home in the city. Beyond the financial grant, new residents receive valuable perks, including a free three-year membership to a co-working space and access to exclusive networking events.
These benefits are designed to not only ease the financial burden of a move, but also to help new residents build connections and become integrated members of the community, fostering a strong network for professional and personal growth.