These dream destinations will pay you to move there

A lucrative move?

Moving house is considered one of the most stressful and financially challenging things you can do in your life, but some locations offer incentives that could ease the burden. Around the world, there are towns, cities and even states that are offering cash rewards to new residents who up sticks and set up homes there.

Click or scroll on to explore the places that'll pay you to stay, plus properties you can snap up right now. 

All dollar values in US dollars unless otherwise stated.

An Italian incentive

If you're seeking a slice of la dolce vita, then you could relocate to the Italian region of Calabria and actually be paid for the privilege. Since 2021, the Italian government has been attempting to attract people to this gorgeous but remote southern region, which has slowly depopulated, thanks to ageing residents and youngsters moving to bigger cities in search of work. The programme has been dubbed “active residency income” and those who utilise it stand to make over €28,000, which is a cool £24,400 ($30k).

La dolce vita

There are nine participating villages to pick from: Bova, Aieta, Samo, Civita, Sant’Agata del Bianco, Cuccuri, Santa Severina, Albidona and San Donato di Ninea (pictured), all of which have less than 2,000 residents. However, like everything that seems too good to be true, there's a catch.

For starters, you must be under the age of 40 to qualify. Plus, once your application has been approved, you'll have just 90 days to make the move. But there's more...

Discouraging restrictions?

Anyone moving to the area under the scheme will also need to commit to launching a business there, or find employment in a sector that is in need of more workers. This includes retail and hospitality, so anyone relocating could set up their own bed and breakfast or independent boutique. Unfortunately this means the programme isn't open to remote workers.

For sale: two-bedroom family home, Sant’Agata del Bianco, Italy: £77,500 ($95k)

To give you an idea of the type of home you can pick up in the region, this spacious, two-bedroom family home in Sant’Agata del Bianco is available for just £77,500 ($95k), or €89,000 in the local currency. So, with that free government money, you'll be able to take out a small mortgage or even buy the property outright.

This particular home measures 2,045 square feet and comes with a lounge, kitchen, dining area and bathroom, as well as a wrap-around balcony.

Remote Irish islands, Ireland

Have you ever dreamt of running away from it all and setting up home on a rugged island with just sheep and a few hardy locals to keep you company? If the answer's yes, you're in luck because the Irish government will pay you up to £73,120 (€84k/$90k) to make your dream come true. 

There are around 30 islands off the coast of Ireland, that are cut-off daily by the tide, are not connected to the mainland by a bridge or road. It's on one of these islands that you could set up home.

Remote Irish islands, Ireland

The scheme, known as 'Our Living Islands', was launched in June 2023 and is designed to boost the dwindling population numbers on these remote and hard to reach isles, including the stunning Arranmore (pictured), just off the coast of County Donegal.

Eligible escapees will receive a minimum grant of €60,000, which is £52,240 ($64k), to breathe life back into a vacant house, or up to €84,000 (£73k/$90k) to revive a derelict home. Of course, there's a bit of a catch...

Derelict lighthouse, Inishmore Island, Ireland: £479,000 ($587k)

The funds are for the sole purpose of carrying out building works, such as structural improvements, installing insulation and redecoration. The grants only apply to a building that was constructed before 1993 and that has been vacant for at least two years.

We think this incredible derelict lighthouse more than fits the bill. On sale for €550,000, or £479,000 ($587k), the 200-year-old local landmark is positioned on Inishmore Island (AKA Inis Mór), where Oscar-nominated film The Banshees of Inisherin was filmed, and boasts incredible sea views.

Derelict lighthouse, Inishmore Island, Ireland: £479,000 ($587k)

The unique property stands on more than two acres of emerald green isle, right next to the ancient Dún Eochla monument, a Celtic stone ring fort that's thought to date to some time between 550 and 800 AD. The Irish government has also pledged money to improve the islands' infrastructure, including health, education and high-speed broadband, in the hope that (very) remote workers might be attracted to island life.

Homes on the islands of Clare, Achill and Tory are also eligible under the scheme. Applications are now open, so if you've got your heart set on a move you can get going straight away. 

Quilpie, Queensland, Australia

If you're not afraid to relocate, then you could soon be a landowner in the Australian outback. The tiny town of Quilpie is incredibly remote. In fact, it's 1,000 kilometres west of Brisbane. To try and encourage people to move to the area and boost the population, Quilpie Shire Council established the Home Owner Grant, which will pay eligible applicants AUD$20,000 (£10.5k/$12.9k) to up sticks and move there.

Since there are plots of land in the area listed for the same price, the scheme will essentially give people a free plot of land to build on, but there are some stipulations...

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Quilpie, Queensland, Australia

For starters, you must be a new homeowner, promise to build a property that's worth less than AUD$750,000, that's £393,250 ($482k), and commit to living in Quilpie for at least six months. The grant will be paid out per new home, not to each applicant for the same home, and it applies to all township areas across Quilpie Shire; Adavale, Eromanga, Cheepie, Quilpie and Toompine.

The grant may also be available for relocated homes, which have been substantially renovated. According to The Guardian, the scheme has attracted attention both nationally and internationally, with more than 250 inquiries from as far afield as India and Hong Kong.

Vacant plot, Quilpie, Australia: £26,200 ($32k)

If you want to get your hands on a plot of Quilpie's distinctive red earth, you could snap up this vacant 28,255-square-foot lot for just AUD$50,000, which is £26,200 ($32k). Marked in green, the plot is the largest of the 43 parcels on Boobook Place, only a few of which have been developed so far.

With plenty of space, plus kerbside access to power, water and sewerage, not to mention a financial sweetener to seal the deal, we can't see this lot remaining empty for long.

Three-bedroom bungalow, Quilpie, Australia: £110,100 ($135k)

While the scheme only covers self-builds, this three-bedroom bungalow might spark some inspiration for your project. It's for sale in Quilpie for £110,100 ($135k), or AUD$210,000. While the grant wouldn't cover the full cost of building a property like this, it would make the task of self-building a little more affordable. 

It's hoped that the scheme will result in the building of around four or five new homes, easing the housing shortage affecting regional Australia, and helping to rekindle a dwindling community. But if the Outback isn't for you, Quilpie isn't the only place willing to pay you to move there...

Tulsa, Oklahoma, USA

In an attempt to attract creatives and digital nomads, the US city of Tulsa, Oklahoma, created the Tulsa Remote programme. The scheme pays out £8,160 ($10k) to eligible applicants, who meet four key requirements.

Firstly, you must be able to move to Tulsa within the next 12 months and be over the age of 18.

Tulsa, Oklahoma, USA

Eligible candidates must also have full-time remote employment, or be self-employed outside of Oklahoma. A new requirement is that applicants are eligible to work in the United States, so this might cause issues for those relocating from other countries.

Those who make the move will gain access to 36 Degrees North, a dynamic coworking space in Downtown Tulsa, with complimentary snacks and beverages, as well as monthly workshops with local entrepreneurs and community-building events to connect you with like-minded people. Let's take a look at the sort of home you could buy here...

One-bed apartment, Tulsa, Oklahoma: £52,220 ($64k)

To make your move easier, Tulsa Remote has even curated the best local apartments, centred around its thriving remote community, so you can easily find a place to live.

However, you may wish to buy instead. A highly affordable place to live, the average Tulsa home costs just £154,128 ($193k), but you can certainly find even cheaper places across the city. A modern apartment inside this charming building will set you back a mere £52,220 ($64k).

One-bed apartment, Tulsa, Oklahoma: £52,220 ($64k)

The newly renovated apartment spans just 621 square feet, but is has everything you could need for relaxing, entertaining and WFH. There’s an open-plan living area with a dining space and a great kitchen with new granite countertops, as well as one bedroom, a bathroom and a private patio, accessible via sliding glass doors.

Albinen, Valais, Switzerland

In order to tackle its decreasing population, the shrinking alpine village of Albinen decided to pay people to relocate there. Those happy to dedicate 10 years to living in the village, which is situated 4,265 feet above sea level, will receive CHF25,000, or £22,620 ($28k), with an additional CHF10,000, £9,050 ($11k), awarded for every child they have.

To be eligible, you'll need to be under 45 years old, own a Swiss passport and commit to using the cash to buy, build or renovate a property in the village.

Modern apartment, Nendaz, Valais: £712,500 ($893k)

If you like the sound of life in Albinen, then check out this chalet-style apartment in nearby Nendaz. Offering unobstructed panoramic views, the apartment comes with its own private balcony overlooking the area's renowned ski slopes.

Modern apartment, Nendaz, Valais: £712,500 ($893k)

Measuring 1,050 square feet, the ultra-modern apartment lies in the brand-new and exclusive Bike & Ski Residence building. With a stylish open-plan lounge, dining zone and kitchen, there's also one bedroom and one bathroom.

Modern apartment, Nendaz, Valais: £712,500 ($893k)

One of just 16 apartments in the complex, the project is due to be completed by the end of 2023, and will be finished to the highest spec. Sadly, living in Switzerland doesn't come cheap, even with cash incentives, and the place will set you back CHF790,000, which is £712,500 ($893k).

But with a little boost from the local government, and the ski slopes of the region right on your doorstep, the move might just be worthwhile.

Vermont, USA

In May 2018, the US state of Vermont began offering money to people willing to move there to work remotely for an out-of-state employer. The Remote Worker Grant Program was created to address the state’s ageing population and was refreshed in February 2022 with new set rules.

To be eligible for the grant, you'll need to relocate to Vermont and become a full-time resident, and have wages that equal or exceed the Vermont livable wage rate, which is currently £10.92 ($13.39) per hour. In return, you'll be paid up to £6,115 ($7.5k), depending on where in the state you choose to live.

Charming Victorian, Richford, Vermont: £203,100 ($249k)

According to Zillow, the average house in Vermont costs £306,245 ($384k), which makes this gorgeous Victorian home in Richford an absolute bargain. Currently listed for a mere £199,588 ($249k), it boasts 2,258 square feet of interior space and large front and back gardens.

Charming Victorian, Richford, Vermont: £203,100 ($249k)

Built in 1905, the historic property features spacious and light-filled rooms, with high ceilings and large sash windows. There's a living room, a dining room, a kitchen, four bedrooms and two bathrooms. Of course, there are plenty of lovely period details throughout, too, including hardwood floors, stained-glass elements, wooden built-ins and fireplaces. 

Charming Victorian, Richford, Vermont: £203,100 ($249k)

The house also boasts a few exterior porches, including one that can be accessed through the master bedroom. Plus, there’s a walk-up attic that could be converted into an amazing owner’s suite. What's more, upon successful relocation to Vermont, applicants will be able to claim reimbursement for everything from hiring a moving company to the renting of moving equipment. How's that for helpful?

New Haven, Connecticut, USA

The city of New Haven, Connecticut, is granting as much as £8,160 ($10k) to help new residents get on the property ladder and boost its dwindling population. In order to obtain the funds, you'll need to be a first-time buyer. If you meet the 300% Federal Poverty Guidance (FPG), then you'll receive an extra £12,230 ($15k) toward down-payment assistance.

Plus, those working for the City of New Haven, including teachers, firefighters and police officers, will gain an additional £2,050 ($2.5k). The best bit? After five years, the loan is 100% forgiven. Let's take a look at what's on offer in New Haven.

Historic home, New Haven, Connecticut: £244,500 ($299k)

The average house price in New Haven is £222,522 ($279k), according to Zillow, and there are plenty of houses to be found. This attractive residence, for example, will cost you just over £244,500 ($299k). Let's take a tour...

Historic home, New Haven, Connecticut: £244,500 ($299k)

The historic building was, at some point, split into two apartments. However, it would be easy for the buyer to return the property to a single family home. But, if you fancy an investment opportunity, you could renovate and lease the spare apartment out to a local resident. The home dates back to 1915 and features 1,514 square feet of inside space, across three floors.

Historic home, New Haven, Connecticut: £244,500 ($299k)

At the moment there are two kitchens, four bedrooms and two bathrooms. Each room is generously proportioned with soaring ceilings and lovely large windows that flood the interior with light. Fairly modern, the buyer could move straight in and save up before undertaking any work.

St. Clair County, Michigan, USA

St. Clair County lies to the north of Michigan's largest city, Detroit. The region launched an annual Community Foundation, aimed at college students who are looking to buy their first home and settle down in the area. Also known as the Come Home Award, the program is paying out £12,234 ($15k) to each student who decides to make the move.

Applications are open every year, from January to March, so keep your eyes peeled. Let's see the sort of house a student could snap up in the region...

Characterful home, Port Huron, Michigan: £119,579 ($149k)

This charming and characterful home is positioned in Port Huron, in the heart of St. Clair County. Up for grabs for just over £119,579 ($149k) following a £7,978 ($10k) price drop, the affordable property was constructed in 1921 and benefits from a front porch and a lovely front and rear garden.

Characterful home, Port Huron, Michigan: £119,579 ($149k)

Laid out over a single floor, the ranch-style residence measures 1,248 square feet, yet it feels so spacious and inviting. Modern and stylish, it boasts a large living room, a dining room, a kitchen, three bedrooms and two bathrooms. 

Characterful home, Port Huron, Michigan: £119,579 ($149k)

Move-in ready, the house also boasts hardwood floors, and ample storage in both the attic and basement. Additionally, the home qualifies for the Urban Pioneer Program which can help buyers with up to £7,978 ($10k) towards closing costs! 

Rural Municipality of Pipestone, Manitoba, Canada

The Rural Municipality of Pipestone, in southwestern Manitoba, Canada, is hoping to boost its economic growth by encouraging people to set up home in the area. The region is offering grants of up to CAD$4,000, or £2,367 ($2.9k) for those buying a property in the area, or as much as CAD$6,000 (£3.5k/$4.3k) towards the cost of building a new home. 

There are also grants for those building or renovating multi-family dwellings or buying farmland to put to good use. The grants are designed to build a stronger, healthier community by encouraging residential and commercial development.

Four-bed family home, Reston, Manitoba: £133,150 ($163k)

The Rural Municipality of Pipestone encompasses the communities of Reston, Pipestone, Cromer and Sinclair, which have a combined population of just 1,500 residents, so the property market here isn't exactly booming. But, if you know where you look, you can find yourself a truly lovely home.

This spacious fixer-upper, for example, lies in Reston and is on the market for just CAD$225,000, which is £133,150 ($163k). How's that for cheap?

Four-bed family home, Reston, Manitoba: £133,150 ($163k)

The affordable historic home was built in 1977 and while it's dated and in need of an overhaul, there are plenty of appealing features that the new owner might want to retain, such as timber floors and brick fireplaces. As for space, the interior stretches almost 1,200 square feet across two floors.

Four-bed family home, Reston, Manitoba: £133,150 ($163k)

The property benefits from a living room, an eat-in kitchen, a laundry zone, three bedrooms and two bathrooms. Patio doors connect the interior with a multi-level deck and the fenced backyard. There are also three garden sheds and a basement level that has been partly renovated. 

Alaska, USA

Over in wild and beautiful Alaska, the Permanent Fund Dividend means all residents who have lived in the state for a full year and who intend to remain an Alaskan resident, receive a yearly sum. The annual amount comes from a state-owned fund, which is fed by Alaska's oil revenues, so the money varies depending on the stock market.

In 2023, for example, it paid out around £1,070 ($1.3k) to every adult residing in the state. Let's take a look at some Alaskan real estate...

Modern residence, Wasilla, Alaska: £530,130 ($665k)

Perhaps surprisingly, Alaska is one of the priciest states in the US and the average property here costs £279,233 ($350k). But, if you've got a bit more to spend, you can pick up something truly special. This modern residence lies in Wasilla and is priced at £530,130 ($665k).

Modern residence, Wasilla, Alaska: £530,130 ($665k)

The contemporary home was completed in 2021 and clearly no expense was spared. It's fresh, bright and stylish, with a lovely internal flow and spacious living areas filled with natural light. There's a generous entrance hall, a kitchen, dining room, lounge, four bedrooms and three bathrooms. 

Modern residence, Wasilla, Alaska: £530,130 ($665k)

What's more, the property has a spacious three-car garage, a garden that stretches more than half-an-acre and, enviably, beautiful mountain views. What could be better?

Ponga, Asturias, Spain

The tiny but picturesque Spanish village of Ponga has the oldest population in Asturias. To ensure the idyllic spot thrives for years to come, hamlet officials are offering young couples that meet their criteria €2,971, or £2,585 ($3.2k), to move there, with the same amount given again for each child born there.

There's a catch to the scheme, but for many it won't be too much of an issue. In order to take advantage of the offer, relocators have to commit to living in Ponga for five years.

Spacious villa, Ponga, Asturias: £147,130 ($180k)

The municipality of Ponga is home to a vast nature reserve, lies on the cusp of the Cantabrian Mountains and is a registered UNESCO World Heritage site. But there's another huge plus when it comes to this pretty Spanish village, real estate is incredibly cheap.

For just £147,130 ($180k), or €169,000, you could bag yourself this villa in the heart of the village.

Spacious villa, Ponga, Asturias: £147,130 ($180k)

The 2,992 square foot property is currently being used for hospitality purposes. However, if you buy the place you could easily turn it back into a family home. There's enough space for a living room, dining space, kitchen, bedroom and bathroom. Many of the rooms feature soaring, beamed ceilings and lovely ceramic floors.

Spacious villa, Ponga, Asturias: £147,130 ($180k)

The villa was constructed back to 1960, but it underwent a comprehensive renovation in 2005, so it's in excellent working order. There's even a gorgeous balcony outside, where you could soak up some seriously amazing mountain views.

So, if you're not afraid to pack up your life and move elsewhere, these amazing opportunities await...

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