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."

"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 has loosened the tie between where people earn and where they live, prompting towns and small cities to court remote employees rather than chase new employers. Municipal programs increasingly offer cash grants, housing assistance, coworking access, high-speed broadband, and lifestyle perks to ease relocation. The incentives combine headline sums with practical supports such as bike infrastructure and museum access, shorter commutes, and reliable fiber. Some programs report high retention and visible population growth as newcomers settle. The appeal centers on lower housing costs, more outdoor time, reduced commute stress, and a daily pace that residents find sustainable year-round.

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