Relocate for Cash: 7 Places That Pay You to Move

We’ve all dreamed at least once about packing up our bags and moving to a completely different corner of the planet – whether to enjoy the freedom of a remote job or to simply answer the call of adventure. You’ll be glad to know, then, that there are a handful of places around the world that will pay you in some way or the other to do exactly that – and even help you settle into your new home.

Here are seven places around the world that offer interesting incentives to relocate there.

1. Tulsa, Oklahoma, USA

For more than four years now, Tulsa, Oklahoma’s second city has been encouraging remote workers to pack up and move there through the Tulsa Remote program. If you apply and make the cut, you’ll receive a one-time payment of $10,000 to get you on your feet. You’ll also get a desk at 36 Degrees North, a co-working space in central Tulsa, plus a monthly housing stipend of $500 for up to one year. The program has been going strong ever since its initiation in November 2018.

2. Albinen, Switzerland

Like the other places on this list, the beautifully picturesque village of Albinen, in the Swiss canton of Valais, is facing issues with a decreasing population – which today numbers fewer than 250 souls. The urgency of bringing this figure up is why the Swiss government has started paying people to relocate there. Families who move to Albinen can expect to receive up to 25,000 Swiss francs (almost $27,000) per adult, and up to 10,000 francs (almost $11,000) per child. You must be a Swiss citizen or have a permanent residency permit to benefit from the scheme, and you must commit to purchasing a house in the commune for at least 10 years.

3. Sardinia, Italy

Sardinia is known for its breathtaking beaches and vibrant customs, but like many rural areas in Italy, it faces a depopulation crisis. Consequently, the regional administration has implemented a financial scheme for new residents. Applicants who make their official residence in a Sardinian village with under 3,000 inhabitants, or who move there after purchasing a home, can expect a payment of up to €15,000 toward housing expenses.

4. Topeka, Kansas, USA

A pilot program called Choose Topeka is attracting those who agree to relocate to and work in the Kansas state capital with a payment of $15,000 (for those who purchase a home in Topeka) or $10,000 (for renters). Started in 2020 and still ongoing, this initiative aims to help grow the city’s flatlining population and fill vacancies in various sectors including financial services and government.

5. Vermont, USA

Vermont, with its stunning landscapes and ski resorts, is seeking to enhance its workforce through a relocation scheme launched in January 2019. Successful applicants to the New Remote Worker Grant Program can receive assistance from the state government to cover relocation costs, ranging from moving equipment to closing costs for a primary residence.

6. Santiago, Chile

The Chilean government is transforming Santiago into an international tech hub by offering entrepreneurs $40,000 to launch their businesses in the city. Launched in 2010, the Start-Up Chile program provides various options catering to different types of start-ups, including initiatives for women-led projects. Participants receive year-long work visas, co-working space, and access to a vast network of business contacts.

7. Presicce-Acquarica, Italy

Located in Puglia, the town of Presicce-Acquarica has emerged as a desirable location with just under 10,000 inhabitants. The town aims to increase its population with a program called “Welcome to Presicce-Acquarica,” offering individuals and families a contribution of up to €30,000 towards the purchase of a house as well as renovations.

This article was first published August 29, 2019, and updated January 4, 2023.