Ready for a fresh start? How about one that actually pays you to make a move? These U.S. cities are rolling out the red carpet with cash incentives, welcome committees, and other perks to attract new residents in 2025.
Whether you’re a recent grad looking to tackle student loans, a remote worker seeking a lower cost of living, or simply craving new scenery, you’ll want to check out these communities. In this Redfin article, we’ll take a closer look at eight cities that pay you to move there.
>> Read: 8 States That Pay You to Move There in 2025
8 cities that pay you to move there in 2025
- Columbus, GA
- Lincoln, KS
- Muskegon + Jackson, MI
- Newton, IA
- Texarkana, TX + AR
- The Shoals, AL region
- Topeka, KS
- Tulsa, OK
1. Columbus, GA
Columbus is embarking on a major campaign to attract new talent, business, and growth to the region, called Columbus 2025. It’s a comprehensive plan to let the nation know that there’s something for everyone in Columbus. Part of this marketing overhaul involves an incentive program aimed at bringing in remote workers. Cash, recreation memberships, and coworking space are all up for grabs.
A hidden gem of the South, Columbus embraces both down-to-earth living and modern conveniences. Home to the Chattahoochee Riverwalk, Civil War history, whitewater rafting, and more, there are endless things to do all within walking distance. Or, for a weekend adventure, you can take a quick trip to nearby cities like Montgomery and Atlanta. Houses only cost $200,000, too – half the national average.
| Initiative | Move to Meaningful |
| Benefits & Information | $5,000 in cash, six months of coworking space, a welcome package, and much more.
The total package is valued at $8,700. |
| Program Requirements | To qualify, you must:
|