Imagine this: you’re packing your bags, heading to a new city, and instead of spending thousands to relocate — they pay YOU just to show up. Sounds like a dream, right?
It’s real, and it’s happening right now in cities across America. But one stands out.
Tulsa, Oklahoma – The City That’s Paying Remote Workers to Move In
In an ambitious and wildly successful move, the city of Tulsa, Oklahoma launched the Tulsa Remote program — a bold initiative that offers $10,000 to remote workers who relocate to the city for at least one year. And yes, people are actually doing it.
What started in 2018 as an experimental idea quickly grew into a magnet for talent. Thousands have applied. Many have moved. And most who make the leap? They’re staying.
Why Tulsa? Why Now?
You might be wondering: what’s the catch? Why is a city like Tulsa shelling out money just to get people to move there?
- Economic revival – Tulsa wants to attract entrepreneurial, tech-savvy, and innovative remote workers who bring income and energy to the city.
- Affordability – With a low cost of living and reasonable housing prices, Tulsa becomes even more attractive when compared to major cities like San Francisco or New York.
- Community impact – New residents bring new ideas, diversity, and talent — exactly what mid-sized cities crave in the 21st century.
What You Get With Tulsa Remote
It’s not just about the money — though $10,000 is a pretty sweet incentive. Here’s what Tulsa Remote participants also receive:
- Free coworking space in a vibrant downtown setting
- Networking and social events with other remote workers and entrepreneurs
- Relocation assistance and community support
- A built-in network of like-minded professionals
Basically, you’re getting paid to join a growing community of future-minded professionals in a city on the rise.
Who’s Eligible?
Not everyone can just pack up and cash in. You need to meet specific criteria:
- You must be 18 or older
- You must be eligible to work in the U.S.
- You must have full-time remote employment outside of Oklahoma
- You must be willing to move to Tulsa within 12 months of being selected
Does It Really Work?
You bet. The program has already accepted thousands of applicants, and their stories are incredibly positive:
- “I never thought I’d love a city like Tulsa, but it’s been one of the best decisions of my life.”
- “Moving here gave me more space, more freedom, and less stress.”
- “The community here is unreal. I actually feel like I belong.”
Many participants say they came for the money — but stayed for the people, pace of life, and opportunities.
Other U.S. Cities Offering Cash to Move
Tulsa isn’t the only place catching on to this trend. Other cities and states offering relocation incentives include:
- West Virginia – Offers up to $12,000 through Ascend WV
- Bentonville, Arkansas – $10,000 and a bike to new residents
- Topeka, Kansas – Up to $15,000 for tech workers
- Newton, Iowa – $10,000 in home-buying incentives
Remote work is reshaping where people live — and some cities are willing to pay you to help reshape their future.
So, Should You Move?
Here’s the truth: moving to a new city isn’t for everyone. But if you’re a remote worker tired of big-city prices, craving community, or just curious what else is out there — a city like Tulsa might be your golden ticket.
Pros of Taking the Leap
- More financial breathing room thanks to lower living costs
- Immediate cash incentive for relocation
- Unique networking opportunities in a smaller but vibrant city
- Less noise, more nature, and a slower pace of life
Things to Consider
- Can you adapt to a smaller city?
- Do you value space over hustle?
- Are you open to new people, places, and experiences?
Think of it this way: If you could press reset and get paid for it — would you?
Final Thoughts
In a world where everything seems to be getting more expensive, getting paid to move feels like a fantasy. But in Tulsa and other forward-thinking cities, it’s very much real.
The trend of "remote worker recruitment" is only growing. As the workforce goes global, cities are competing not just for businesses — but for people. And right now, your lifestyle could be exactly what they want to attract.
So pack your laptop, grab your suitcase — and maybe, just maybe — follow the money.
