Here’s where remote workers can still get paid to move

Some cities have abandoned incentive programs for remote workers. But there are still places that will pay you to relocate.

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Since 2018, the city of Tulsa, Oklahoma has dished out $10,000 to more than 4,000 remote workers for moving there—and according to a new study, generated more than four times that sum in economic impact.

Cities and towns have long offered tax incentives and other perks to employers that bring jobs. In recent years, however, the Tulsa Remote program—which is primarily funded by community-based nonprofit the George Kaiser Family Foundation (GKFF)—has proven that there can be equal or greater value in recruiting mobile workers one at a time.

Though $10,000 might sound like a hefty sum, new research suggests each dollar given returns $4.31 to the local economy, including $2.09 in direct taxes and $1.80 in local job creation.

“It’s about getting out of the old-fashioned way of thinking about economic development,” says Justin Harlan, managing director of Tulsa Remote. “It’s a little bit harder, but the return is there; it just takes a little bit different thinking, especially in today’s world where flexible workers have so much choice in terms of geography.”

Most participants admit they wouldn’t have applied if not for the cash incentive. But for Harlan and Tulsa Remote, the focus is on helping new residents put down roots during their mandatory one-year stay. To that end, Tulsa Remote connects them with fellow program members and alumni, local nonprofits and business leaders, and a dedicated staff member to assist their transition.  

Since launch, 96% of participants completed their first year, and 70% have remained long-term. One even ran for mayor. 

Over the years, and especially in the wake of the pandemic, many communities have tried to emulate Tulsa’s model, but few have seen the same success.

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