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."

"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."

"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."

Remote work loosened the tie between where people earn and where they live, enabling relocation without changing employers. Increasing numbers of towns and small cities offer cash incentives, housing assistance, coworking access, improved broadband, and lifestyle perks to attract remote workers. Programs include one-time grants up to $10,000, housing assistance up to $15,000, and coworking memberships to support networking. Cities highlight shorter commutes, bike infrastructure, cultural amenities, lower housing costs, and high-speed internet exceeding 250 Mbps. Many programs report high retention, and applicants often prioritize predictable monthly expenses, outdoor access, and sustainable daily rhythms over chasing local employers.

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