Are American cities emptying? Cities are paying up to $15,000 to relocate

Some American cities in seven states are offering financial incentives to people who decide to move there. City programs provide payments to new residents of up to $15,000, media reports.

The main goal of most of these programs is to attract talented people who will contribute to the development of their local communities . As Evan Hock, co-founder of a relocation company, noted on CNBC, active and intelligent people can find work almost anywhere, which gives them the freedom to choose where to live.

More and more people are moving from expensive metropolitan areas in states like California, New York, Texas and Florida to places that offer a better quality of life, where affordability and strong community ties are key.

For example, West Virginia is tempting prospective residents not only with a $12,000 grant, but also with a free outdoor activity package and access to co-working space. To take advantage of this program, you must live in the designated regions (New River Gorge, Greenbrier Valley, Morgantown, Eastern Panhandle or Greater Elkins) for at least two years.

Arrivals must be:

• of age,
• US citizens or green card holders,
• be able to work remotely for an out-of-state company or be self-employed,
• be able to move within six months.

Other cities are also offering significant financial support: Tulsa, Oklahoma, offers a $10,000 rental subsidy or a one-time payment upon purchase of a home, and a three-year membership to a local coworking space.

Hamilton, Ohio, and Newton, Iowa, are both offering $10,000 in first-year rent and up to $15,000 to buy a home. Topeka, Kansas, is also offering $10,000 in first-year rent or up to $15,000 to buy a home.

The most modest financial incentive is offered by Ketchikan in Alaska. It pays $2,000 to people who decide to live there.

From New York Andrzej Dobrowolski (PAP)

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