More and more people are looking to pack their bags and start fresh somewhere new. Maybe it’s the rising cost of living, the shift to remote work, or just a craving for something different. Whatever the reason, the idea of living somewhere else has become way more popular—and a lot more doable. And here’s the wild part: some places are so eager for new residents that they’ll actually pay you to move in.
We’re not talking about pocket change either. Several towns and countries are offering $10,000 or more just to get you to relocate. In return, they hope you’ll bring energy, business, and life back into shrinking communities. Some want young families, others are after digital workers, and a few just want people who’ll stay and contribute.
So if you’ve been daydreaming about a new life in a totally different place, this list might give you the push you need. Just know—these aren’t your typical destinations, and that’s kind of the point.
1. Albinen, Switzerland
Albinen is a small, picturesque village in the Swiss Alps that’s been gaining attention for its generous relocation offer. The town will pay up to 25,000 Swiss francs (about $28,000 USD) per adult and 10,000 francs per child to families willing to move there. But there are a few requirements. You must be under 45 years old, commit to living there for at least 10 years, and purchase or build a home worth at least 200,000 francs.
Albinen’s population is shrinking, and local leaders hope to attract young families to help keep the village alive. It’s peaceful, safe, and stunning—think wooden chalets and mountain views that look like a postcard. It’s not the place for city lovers, but if you’re looking for calm, fresh air, and a slower pace, it could be perfect. Just make sure you love snow—winters here are no joke.
2. Calabria, Italy
Calabria, located in southern Italy, is offering up to €28,000 (around $30,000 USD) to newcomers willing to move to its smaller villages. This region has seen many young people move away, leaving behind quiet towns in need of new life. To qualify, you must be under 40 years old, agree to relocate within 90 days of acceptance, and commit to starting a small business or taking on a local job.
The program spreads the funds over two to three years, so it’s not a quick cash grab—it’s designed to help you settle and thrive. Calabria offers beautiful beaches, rolling hills, and a warm Mediterranean climate. It’s ideal for anyone looking for a slower lifestyle, amazing food, and a chance to be part of a real community. If you’ve ever dreamed of living in a charming Italian town where everyone knows your name, this could be your chance.
3. Tulsa, Oklahoma, USA
Tulsa Remote is a program that pays remote workers $10,000 to relocate to Tulsa, Oklahoma. Unlike the smaller villages in Europe, Tulsa is a mid-sized American city with growing tech and arts scenes. The program is open to U.S. citizens or legal residents who are at least 18 years old and work full-time remotely for a company based outside of Oklahoma.
You’ll receive the money in chunks—$2,500 upfront, $500 per month, and a final $1,500 after a year. They also offer free co-working space and help you find housing and community connections. The cost of living is low, and the city has great coffee shops, music venues, and outdoor spaces. If you’re not ready to go full countryside but want something more affordable than New York or L.A., Tulsa could be a sweet spot. Plus, it’s a real community—people are welcoming, and events happen year-round.
4. The Shoals, Alabama, USA
The Shoals, located in northwest Alabama, offers a $10,000 incentive to remote workers willing to relocate through its Remote Shoals program. To qualify, applicants must be at least 18 years old, earn a minimum of $52,000 annually, and work full-time for a company located outside Colbert and Lauderdale counties. The program is open to U.S. residents and individuals from outside the U.S. Selected participants must relocate within six months of acceptance.
The program distributes the $10,000 in stages: it provides 25% upfront to assist with relocation costs, another 25% after six months of residency, and the remaining 50% after you complete one year in the area.
The Shoals region is known for its rich musical heritage, scenic beauty, and southern hospitality. With a lower cost of living and proximity to cities like Birmingham, Nashville, and Memphis, it offers a balanced lifestyle for those seeking a change of pace. If you’re a remote worker looking for a supportive community and a financial boost to relocate, The Shoals might be the perfect fit.
5. Alaska, USA
Alaska’s “Alaska Permanent Fund Dividend” offers a financial incentive for anyone living in the state, including those who move there. While not specific to new residents, it provides an annual payment of approximately $1,000 to $2,000 to every eligible resident. However, there are additional opportunities for people who are willing to relocate to specific parts of Alaska. The state often offers relocation incentives that can go well beyond $10,000 in total if you meet certain criteria, particularly in remote or underpopulated areas.
For example, the city of Wrangell, Alaska, has previously offered a relocation bonus that could total up to $13,000. Applicants are required to move and establish residency in Wrangell, work remotely, or find local employment. Similarly, other areas like the Matanuska-Susitna Borough have offered incentives for workers in specific industries like healthcare, technology, and education, with grants often exceeding $10,000 in total.
Moving to Alaska provides a unique experience, offering access to nature, wide open spaces, and unparalleled wildlife, but it comes with a hefty cost of living in some areas. The state’s majestic landscapes, outdoor activities, and close-knit communities make it a one-of-a-kind relocation destination. However, those considering moving there should be prepared for harsh winters and isolated living conditions.
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6. North Platte, Nebraska, USA
North Platte, Nebraska, offers up to $10,000 to individuals willing to relocate and work remotely in this charming midwestern town. Through its “Move to North Platte” program, the city invites new residents to take advantage of the low cost of living and the peaceful atmosphere that rural life provides. To qualify, applicants must be full-time remote workers, 18 years or older, and able to commit to staying for a year or longer.
The relocation bonus is paid out in stages: half of the $10,000 is given upfront to help with moving costs, and the rest is distributed after the first year of residency. In addition to the financial incentive, North Platte offers housing assistance and opportunities to get involved in the local community. With its rich history, access to outdoor activities, and welcoming residents, North Platte offers a quiet but fulfilling lifestyle.
This program is designed to attract individuals looking for a slower pace of life, while still being within driving distance to larger cities like Omaha and Lincoln. Whether you’re a digital nomad or simply looking for a fresh start, North Platte might be the perfect place to consider.
7. Ponga, Spain
Ponga, a small village in Spain’s Asturias region, offers an enticing relocation package aimed at reviving its population. Known for its stunning mountains and historic charm, Ponga will pay new residents up to €3,000 (about $4,000) to move there. If you meet other requirements this could potentially be up to $10,000. The Spanish village wants to attract families and remote workers to help combat the aging population and low birth rates that many rural Spanish towns face.
To qualify, applicants must meet specific criteria, including relocating permanently to Ponga and committing to stay for a minimum of three years. Additionally, new residents must contribute to the local community in some way, such as by opening a business or working remotely. While €3,000 isn’t a huge amount of money upfront, it can be a helpful start for individuals looking to make a life in one of the most scenic and serene areas of Europe.
Ponga’s lush landscapes, clean air, and historic stone buildings offer a peaceful setting for those seeking a slower, nature-filled lifestyle. The small town atmosphere combined with its stunning natural beauty makes Ponga a unique opportunity for those craving a different pace of life.
8. Kansas, USA
Kansas is another state in the U.S. that has offered relocation bonuses for people willing to make a move. The “Kansas Welcomes You” program offers new residents up to $15,000 if they relocate to certain rural areas of the state. Kansas is looking to boost its population and economy by attracting remote workers, retirees, and individuals in industries such as healthcare, education, and technology.
The state offers $10,000 to those who relocate and agree to work in a qualified job for one year. Additionally, Kansas provides $5,000 in housing assistance to help individuals settle in the area. For remote workers, there are no job-specific requirements, but you must prove that your employment is based outside the state.
Kansas offers a great deal of financial freedom due to its low cost of living, and rural areas boast wide open spaces and a family-friendly atmosphere. If you’re someone who loves the idea of living in a peaceful setting while enjoying significant financial incentives, Kansas could be a great option to consider.
9. Tasmania, Australia
Tasmania, the island state of Australia, has launched a program to encourage skilled workers to relocate and settle on the island. The state will pay up to AUD 20,000 (around $12,800) to professionals who move to Tasmania for at least one year. This initiative is aimed at filling labor shortages in various sectors such as health, agriculture, and technology.
The program offers incentives to people with skills that are in high demand, such as healthcare professionals, teachers, and IT specialists. The state also offers funding to individuals starting their own business. The first payment of AUD 10,000 is given to help with relocation, and the remaining balance is paid after completing one year of residency in Tasmania.
Tasmania’s natural beauty, including stunning beaches, mountains, and forests, provides a peaceful and rewarding environment for remote workers. For anyone looking for adventure and a career boost in an idyllic setting, Tasmania offers a great opportunity with financial assistance.
10. France’s Dordogne Region
For those seeking a slower pace of life in the French countryside, the Dordogne region of France is offering relocation packages that can reach up to €10,000 ($11,000). This initiative is designed to attract young professionals, families, and remote workers to rural towns facing depopulation. Those who relocate must commit to staying for at least two years and establish themselves in the local community, whether by working remotely, opening a business, or taking up a local job.
The Dordogne region is renowned for its picturesque villages, rolling hills, and ancient castles, making it an ideal location for those wanting a peaceful and scenic lifestyle. Applicants must also demonstrate their ability to integrate into the community by participating in social or cultural events. The funds can be used for moving expenses, housing, and business startup costs.
If you’ve ever dreamed of living in France, the Dordogne region offers the chance to experience authentic rural French life while receiving financial support to make the move easier. Whether you want to embrace a slower pace or work remotely in an inspiring environment, this is a wonderful opportunity.
11. The North Island, New Zealand
New Zealand’s North Island is becoming an increasingly attractive destination for remote workers and entrepreneurs, especially those in fields like technology and creative industries. While there isn’t a specific $10,000 relocation incentive, New Zealand offers other supportive programs that can help make the transition smoother. One such program is the Overseas Relocation Grant, offering up to NZD $10,000 for qualified teachers relocating to the country. This grant helps cover expenses like airfares, accommodation, and registration costs.
For those looking to work remotely, New Zealand also offers a visa that allows digital nomads to live and work for up to 90 days while maintaining employment with overseas employers. This policy is part of New Zealand’s broader efforts to attract skilled professionals, even if they aren’t planning to permanently relocate.
Applicants for any relocation program are encouraged to live in smaller cities or rural areas to help foster population growth and economic development outside the more crowded urban centers like Auckland. New Zealand’s North Island, with its stunning beaches, volcanic landscapes, and vibrant cities like Wellington, offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and modern amenities, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a slower pace of life.
Conclusion
While these locations offer exciting opportunities and substantial incentives to move, it’s important to keep in mind the logistical hurdles that come with relocating to another country. The application process for these programs can vary, and each destination has its own set of requirements, such as visa approvals, proof of income, or proof that you’ll be contributing to the local economy. Make sure to thoroughly research the specific requirements for your desired location, as some places have strict eligibility criteria and deadlines.
Additionally, keep in mind that the relocation payments are often part of broader programs, which may include certain conditions like a minimum length of stay or job commitments. Some countries may also require you to invest in the local economy or work remotely for a set number of hours. Moving abroad is an exciting adventure, but it comes with a lot of paperwork, planning, and sometimes waiting.
If you’re seriously considering one of these stunning destinations, be sure to check with local authorities or relocation agencies to get up-to-date information. After all, while the payout may be enticing, settling into a new life in a foreign country is a huge commitment. But with the right preparation, these opportunities can be life-changing!
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