The remote work trend that was turbocharged by the pandemic is now getting a boost from programs offering incentives to remote workers to move into less expensive cities and towns. A recent article in the Wall Street Journal explains that 71 cities and towns are offering incentives for workers to move there. These incentives often involve cash payments to the workers. Indianapolis-based MakeMyMove is contracted by cities and towns to set up these programs.

These programs make a lot of sense. Remote workers no longer have to locate in areas with a high cost of living. They can move anywhere. Meanwhile, these workers are very attractive to smaller cities and towns, adding to the tax base and purchasing power of the population, without adding congestion to local traffic. Paying incentives is a great way to make a particular city or town more attractive to a worker considering a move.

Expect this trend to continue barring a significant economic downturn.