How to earn up to $15,000? Move to one of these US cities

Photo by Drew Harbour on Unsplash

Is the American Dream still attainable?

The white picket fence, the good-paying job, the happiness that comes with chasing big goals—these already elusive elements of the American Dream have become even more challenging to grasp in today’s economic climate.

But here’s some great news: A few cities in the United States have decided to *literally* put their money where their mouths are—or in this case, where their people are. With the main goal of revitalizing their communities, these cities offer incentives to individuals looking to settle down or start anew.

And the best part? You may join their roster of grantees in four steps: apply, relocate, work, and interact with the community.

Disclaimer: This list merely covers the basics. We recommend doing more research on the programs (and culture) of these cities to ensure the right fit for your aspirations.

Tulsa, Oklahoma

Launched in 2018, Tulsa Remote is a “unique recruitment initiative” aiming to reinforce the city’s workforce community by attracting talented individuals to reside there. Cash grants and other community-building opportunities will be given to qualified applicants.

Photo from Tulsa Remote’s official website

Who can apply: The program is open to (non-Oklahoman) full-time remote workers and self-employed individuals who meet all of these conditions: are at least 18 years old, are eligible to work in the U.S., and can move to Tulsa within the next 12 months.

Benefits: A total amount of $10,000 cash will be distributed throughout the course of your stay in Tulsa—some will be allotted for relocation expenses, some for monthly stipend, and the rest will be given by the end of your stay. Besides this cash incentive, a 36-month membership to a local co-working space and housing support will also be provided.

Important note: Tusla isn’t the only U.S. city that provides opportunities for remote workers. Bemidji, Minnesota also offers a package that includes six months of free internet, Chamber of Commerce access, a local co-working space membership, and a pass to community projects.

Morgantown, West Virginia is also willing to pay up to $12,000 to those who will move to the city for at least two years; while The Shoals, Alabama joins the party by offering remote workers a cash grant worth $10,000.

Hamilton, Ohio

Photo from City of Hamilton, Ohio – City Hall/Facebook

If you need assistance in paying off student loans, the Hamilton Community Foundation has opened the Talent Attraction Program Scholarship​​. It’s a “reverse scholarship” program in which recent college graduates are given financial support to alleviate the burden of debt repayment.

Who can apply: Those who’ve completed a STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, mathematics) program within the last seven years will be considered. Applicants must also meet the following requirements: shouldn’t be residents of select Hamilton neighborhoods but are willing to relocate in one of those; must be employed within Butler County or hold a (full-time) remote position in a professional role; and are willing to engage in community activities.

Benefits: Qualified applicants will gain up to $15,000—approximately $400 a month. However, there’s a catch. Should the recipient cease employment and move out before the full disbursement of funds, they’d automatically be excluded from the program.

Newton, Iowa

Photo from Newton Main Street/Facebook

Planning to buy a residential area but don’t know where? You might want to consider Iowa. The Newton Housing Initiative is a City Council-approved program that gives away cash grants to homebuilders, developers, property owners, and buyers. It seeks to invigorate the housing development within the city and ultimately foster a stable and growing population.

Who can apply: Anybody purchasing a new single-family home in Newton is eligible for the incentives—granted that the construction begins within the city limits by 2026. Additionally, properties should be valued at $240,000 or more, excluding land value. Anything lower than that (and rental properties) won’t be considered.

Benefits: Buyers who successfully meet the criteria will receive $10,000 and a “Get to Know Newton” welcome package—to be handed upon the closing of permanent home financing. (P.S. Properties valued under $240,000 may still benefit from tax abatement, as per the city’s Urban Revitalization Plan.)