Wisconsin Town Will Pay You In Cash And Perks If You Move There

I recently read a piece in USA Today that listed the worst cities, or "least desirable places to live in the nation," and there was absolutely no shortage of places to fill out that list.

You've probably been to several cities and towns and thought, “They couldn't pay me to live here.” But what if they actually could?

Turns out, there are communities across America that are literally offering cash, perks, and incentives to convince people to move there. One of the newest examples isn't across the country, it's just a few hours north of Northern Illinois.

It's not Milwaukee. (79815483)

We Hear That Fond du Lac Is Lovely At This Time Of Year

The city of Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, has launched a relocation program that offers up to $9,500 in cash and local perks to eligible newcomers. The effort is being coordinated through the MakeMyMove program, which helps communities attract new residents, particularly remote workers and families.

Fond du Lac's package includes a $5,500 cash relocation stipend along with extras like YMCA memberships, golf packages, arts and entertainment passes, networking opportunities, and VIP access to local festivals.

Fond du Lac is located on the southern shore of Lake Winnebago, is hoping to attract younger workers as it faces workforce shortages and an aging population. Officials say the area's affordable housing, lakeside lifestyle, and strong employers are among its biggest selling points.

And Fond du Lac Is Not Alone

A whole bunch of different places have discovered that a little upfront investment can attract new taxpayers, workers, and families. Some of the programs highlighted by MakeMyMove and other relocation initiatives include:

• Tulsa, Oklahoma: Offers qualifying remote workers $10,000 through the popular Tulsa Remote program.
• West Virginia: The Ascend WV program provides $12,000 plus outdoor recreation perks.
• Topeka, Kansas: Offers incentives worth up to $15,000 for some new residents.
• Mattoon, Illinois: Has offered cash incentives and coworking benefits to remote workers relocating there.
• Newton, Iowa: Provides incentives tied to home purchases and new construction.

So...will a few thousand dollars convince someone to pack up and move? Maybe not.

But in an era when remote work gives many people more freedom than ever before, a relocation bonus certainly doesn't hurt. If you've ever dreamed of a fresh start, there are places around America willing to sweeten the deal, and one of them is practically in Northern Illinois' backyard.