The world is incredibly vast and full of opportunities. When it comes to choosing a place to live, the options are almost endless! You could chase your dreams in the heart of a bustling city, or find solace in a tranquil beach town by the coast. But here's an interesting proposition—how about settling down in a place that will actually pay you real money to live there?
The following list explores locations around the globe that are known for paying their residents to live there. While some requirements are usually attached to the arrangements, some people may find that the circumstances perfectly suit their desired lifestyle. Here are 18 interesting places around the world that will pay you to live there:
1. Alaska
If chilly weather doesn't bother you and the prospect of receiving a yearly check from the government sounds appealing, then you might want to consider moving to Alaska. Residents of the Frontier State are paid royalties every year courtesy of its oil and gas industry, and the best part is, there are no special requirements.
Back in 1982, the state government rolled out the Alaska Permanent Dividend, which distributes money to Alaskans annually from a $54 billion reserve. The continued success of the oil and gas industry ensures that residents keep receiving checks every year.
The approximate amount of each payout is around $1,000 as of 2020; however, that number can fluctuate based on the circumstances. For example, since the pandemic hit, there has been a decline in gas usage, which has affected the performance of Alaska's oil companies.
2. Albinen, Switzerland
Fancy the European life? Consider Albinen, a gorgeous Swiss village with picturesque views and old-world charm. If you're not a fan of the city, you'll definitely like it here—the place is hidden away in the mountains and only has a few existing residents, so you'll truly get some peace and quiet.
In fact, the town is so underpopulated that it actually needs more people, which is why it has decided to give out $25,000 to every adult and $10,000 to every child who buys a home there. The only requirements are that participants must be at least 45 years old or younger and willing to live in the town for at least ten years.
Moving to a rural location can be a bit daunting, but it might be a pleasant change from the fast-paced momentum of urban life. Besides, how great would it be to wake up to the beautiful Swiss mountains every morning? An experience like that is quite simply priceless.
3. Arkansas
Here's one way to make a quick $10,000—get a job and move to Arkansas! The Northwest Arkansas Council, a nonprofit organization, announced last year that they would be handing out the ten-grand bonus plus a free bike to people who decide to move there.
The council is setting aside over $1 million over the next six months for this initiative, and the money is being provided by the Wanton family, who are the heirs to Walmart and Sam's Club. The bikes are an extra incentive for outdoor enthusiasts; however, participants can also opt for a yearly membership to one of the area's arts and cultural institutions instead.
According to Nelson Peacock, the president of the Northwest Arkansas Council, the state is trying to attract more talent in the fields of STEAM: science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics. A greater number of employees and remote workers in such occupations would bring a much-needed boost to the economy.
4. Baltimore, Maryland
The homes in Baltimore may be expensive, but if you're willing to opt for a fixer-upper, you might be eligible to receive a decent sum of money to help pay for it. The city has a 'Vacants to Value' booster program that lends $10,000 in a five-year forgivable loan to assist with the down payment and closing costs.
The money is yours whether you choose to purchase a run-down home that will be renovated by a developer, or one that you plan to renovate yourself. The only catch is you would need to contribute at least $1,000 of your own money toward the home and the mortgage amount cannot exceed $517,500.
You also have a chance to win $5,000 if you take a Trolley Tour through the city. The Buying Into Baltimore lottery organization will select 20 participants at random for a chance to win the grand prize.
5. Santiago, Chile
Are you a tech junkie with dreams of growing your start-up into a successful company? A residency in Santiago can help you achieve that goal—the Chilean city is on a mission to establish itself as the entrepreneurial heart of South America and it is hoping that a monetary incentive will convince new talent to come and stay.
The Start-Up Chile program is offering $78,000 in equity-free funding, provided that you remain in the country for at least four months to a year. Of course, you would spend that time growing your business and, consequently, giving Santiago's tech sector a much-needed boost.
In addition to the grant, participants in the program will also enjoy other perks such as training sessions with mentors and investors, a free workspace in the city, and a one-year work visa.
6. Hawaii
Hawaii is a top-tier destination for vacationers, but it's also a great place to live. If you're unsure about the tropical life, there's a way for you to experience a sort of 'trial run' on the island through Hawaii's Movers and Shakas, program.
Employed individuals who have jobs and live outside Hawaii (but within the U.S.) are eligible to participate, and the arrangement is pretty sweet. You'll be able to a joy a full month's stay in the Aloha State, plus a free round-trip flight and discounted hotels.
In return, you'll need to do some volunteer work to give back to the community during your stay. The program will require you to fulfill at least 15 hours per week of volunteering with nonprofits, working with local start-ups, or getting involved in cultural events.
7. Hong Kong
It may be one of the most densely populated places in the world, but Hong Kong is still looking to bring in more people from the outside, particularly native English speakers. In fact, many people often relocate to Hong Kong with their families to work as primary or secondary school English teachers and their arrangements are pretty solid.
They get a full salary, medical insurance benefits, travel coverage, and even a special allowance of $2,700 a month. Your family's airfare and baggage expenses will also be reimbursed once you arrive in the city.
Of course, as with any job, promotions and salary increases are possible. Typically, such evaluations are made after you've completed at least one year at a local school.
8. Japan
Ever wondered what it'd be like to live in Japan? Well, the Japanese government would love for you to find out for yourself—they have a JET Programme that recruits outsiders to live in Japan and work as Assistant Language Teachers.
The initiative aims to help individuals develop a deeper understanding and appreciation of Japanese culture, while also giving Japanese residents exposure to other cultures. To apply, you only need a bachelor's degree or three-year teacher training certification.
Of course, it is expected that you will learn some Japanese during your stay, but being a fluent speaker is not a requirement. You will earn $25,666 in your first year, $33,000 in your second, $35,749 in your third, and $36,300 in your fourth and fifth. Your flights to the country, as well as your transportation costs during your stay, will also be covered.
9. Lincoln, Kansas
You may be thinking, "What could there possibly be for me in Kansas?" Well, free land, it turns out. In the town of Lincoln, which has a population of only 3,500, you can get free parcels of land to build your dream home on, and there really isn't any catch.
The Free Home Site Program aims to build a new subdivision and it has invested over half a million dollars on building sites to give away to 21 eligible applicants. Those who are chosen will benefit from reduced special assessments for the building process, plus a 10-year property tax rebate on the lots.
Also, it should be noted that Lincoln isn't in the middle of absolute nowhere—the town is actually within a reasonable distance from the city and it has its own baseball field, park, high school, and medical center.
10. Maine
Students have a good reason to move to Maine—President Biden just eliminated taxes on any student debt that gets canceled in the next five years, and if you live in the state, you may even get reimbursed for your monthly payments.
This is possible through the Opportunity Maine Tax Credit, which is intended for Americans who received a bachelor's degree or associate's degree after 2015. Those who graduated earlier than that could still be eligible if they went to school in Maine.
The tax credit is up to $4,500 per year, which is pretty great. It's even better if you have a degree in STEM—in that case, your credit could be refundable and you'd receive a check for the proportion that you aren't able to apply to your taxes.
11. Newton, Iowa
Moving to an obscure town wouldn't be the worst idea, especially if that town is Newton. Thanks to the Newton Housing Initiative, incoming homebuyers can receive a significant sum of money to purchase their home with, plus a "Get to Know Newton" Welcome Package valued at $2,500.
Eligible participants can receive $5,000 to use on properties valued between $100,000 and $179,000, or $10,000 for properties valued at $180,000 or more. Even if you spend less than those amounts, you may still qualify for a property tax break, which is a huge financial help.
The program was introduced in 2014 in order to improve Newton's housing situation. Iowa is currently experiencing a shortage of affordable housing, so Newton's initiative comes at a very good time.
12. Saskatchewan, Canada
A move up north to Saskatchewan might be worth your while if you're looking to clear your student debt. The prairie province has a Graduate Retention Program that aims to keep young individuals from moving elsewhere, as well as attract new graduates from across Canada and all over the world.
Students can receive a tax rebate of up to $20,000 depending on what degree they earned. That amount is paid out over seven years and can be used to pay off student debts incrementally. Should the tax rebate end up being more than what you need, you can use the extra money in future tax years for up to 10 years after your graduation.
13. The Shoals, Alabama
Imagine spending your workdays by a sunny beach with your favorite iced beverage by your side. That dream could become a reality if you move to The Shoals in Alabama. Not only will you have fun in the sun, but you'll also enjoy a slew of other benefits like affordable housing and low property taxes.
Still not convinced? Maybe the Remote Shoals program will seal the deal for you—the regionally-run initiative is offering remote workers $10,000 to live and work in the area, which encompasses the cities of Florence, Muscle Shoals, Sheffield, and Tuscumbia.
Eligible participants must make at least $52,000 a year and be willing to move into the area. It will take up to six months to get accepted. 25% of the money will be given upfront for relocation costs, then another 25% after the six-month period.
14. Sicily, Italy
Sicily is a place that is well-known for its cheap properties. The Italian region made headlines a few years ago when it started to offer homes for as little as $1.20 (yes, you read that right). The town of Troina, in particular, has several abandoned buildings that are selling for that price; however, they are far from move-in ready. The catch is that buyers will have to pay for their own renovations.
That said, the government is more than willing to help pay for them—in fact, those who participate in the revitalization program will receive a "restyle bonus" of up to $18,000, plus another $12,000 for energy efficiency upgrades. A $6,000 deposit is required at the start, but that will be paid back once the renovations are complete.
Aside from Troina, you can also look in other cities within Sicily, such as Castiglione di Sicilia, Mussomeli, and Castropignano. The homes in those places are also run down, so you'll probably find similar deals.
15. South Korea
Having a solid grasp of the English language can really pay off, especially in South Korea. With a bachelor's degree, you can apply to the English Program in Korea (EPIK), through which you would teach English to Korean students in various cities. Teachers earn as much as $1,775 a month, and most people in the program also receive free housing.
In addition to that salary, all EPIK teachers are given $268 in the first month to help them settle into their new homes. In the next six months afterward, they can expect to receive another payment of $1,154, as well as coverage for half of their medical insurance. Ideally, you would want to renew your contract, as the program will offer you even more bonus money for your extended services.
16. Topeka, Kansas
Remote workers will want to check out Topeka, the capital city of Kansas. Through the Choose Topeka program, you can receive up to $10,000 to rent a place or $15,000 to buy a home. But you're going to need to talk to your boss first—in order for the arrangement to be valid, your employer will have to chip in to assist with the transfer.
Individuals who relocate may also qualify for a $1,000 bonus for—wait for it—sandwiches. Jimmy John's Gourmet Sandwiches, a local chain in Topeka, is offering the bonus to those who move in any of their three delivery zones. Talk about getting your bread and eating it too!
17. Tulsa, Oklahoma
George Kaiser, a billionaire in Tulsa, wants more people to move into his city. He's offering $10,000 grants to outsiders who agree to live in Tulsa and work there remotely for a year. He usually pays out that money in installments; however, if you're ready to purchase a home right away, the $10,000 can be yours in a lump sum after the sale has been made.
Additionally, those who sign up for Kaiser's program will have a slew of perks available to them, including access to exclusive events and free desk space. To be eligible, you must be 18 years old, available to work in the United States and be able to move to Tulsa within six months. Not a bad deal for just one year of work!
18. Vermont
Since 2019, Vermont has been on a mission to recruit remote workers via a special initiative. The Remote Worker Grant Program provides a total of 100 grants for the first three years, and then 20 additional applications for every year afterward.
Recipients will get $5,000 per year over a period of two years as long as they can prove that they are employed outside of Vermont. They must also be able to show that they have moved and have become official residents of the state. Newcomers will be reimbursed for their moving expenses as long as they provide invoices.
