This US city will pay you $9,500 to move there for a year: How to apply, eligibility, benefits, and application process explained

A county in the US state of Wisconsin is offering up to $9,500 in relocation incentives to eligible remote workers who are willing to move there and stay for at least a year, according to local media reports.

The initiative has come from from Fond du Lac County, home to the city of Fond du Lac, located along the southern shore of Lake Winnebago. The goal is simple: attract new talent, support workforce growth, and encourage more young professionals and families to settle in the area.

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Why Is Fond du Lac County Offering Relocation Incentives?

The program has been launched by Envision Greater Fond du Lac, the county's chamber of commerce and economic development organization.

Local leaders said the initiative is aimed at addressing workforce shortages while bringing new residents, skilled professionals, and families into the community. By attracting remote workers who can bring their jobs with them, the county hopes to strengthen the local economy and boost long-term population growth.

Fond du Lac County has become the first Wisconsin community to join the relocation platform MakeMyMove, which connects remote workers with cities offering incentives to relocate.

How Much Money Will Selected Applicants Receive?

The total relocation package is worth $9,500, but it is not entirely paid in cash.

Eligible participants will receive:

• $5,500 cash stipend
• $4,000 worth of local experiences, memberships, and community perks

The benefits are designed to help newcomers settle in while encouraging them to explore everything the region has to offer.

What Does the Relocation Package Include?

Beyond the cash incentive, the program includes a range of local memberships and experiences.

Participants may receive:

• Membership to the Fond du Lac Family YMCA
• Golf-related benefits
• VIP access to arts and cultural attractions
• Baseball experiences with the FDL Dock Spiders
• Library memberships and passes
• Dining experiences
• Family-friendly activities
• Agricultural and community event experiences

The package is intended to help newcomers quickly become part of the community.

Who Can Apply?

According to the program guidelines, applicants must meet several requirements:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Currently live outside Wisconsin
• Relocate to Fond du Lac County within six months of acceptance
• Have an annual household income of at least $55,000
• Commit to living in the county for at least one year

The program is especially targeted at remote workers, although local employment opportunities may also be available for those interested in working within the county.

How to Apply for the Program

Applications are being accepted through the relocation platform MakeMyMove's Fond du Lac program page.

Interested candidates can review eligibility requirements, submit an application, and learn more about the benefits offered through the initiative.

Selection is generally based on eligibility criteria and program availability.

Why Remote Workers May Find Fond du Lac Attractive

With a population of just over 104,000 people, Fond du Lac County promotes itself as a destination that combines the convenience of small-city living with access to larger urban amenities.

Residents can enjoy outdoor recreation, lakefront activities, cultural attractions, family-friendly neighborhoods, and a lower cost of living compared with many major US cities.

For remote workers seeking more space, a slower pace of life, and financial support to relocate, the program presents an unusual opportunity to start fresh while keeping their current job.

FAQs

How much money can remote workers receive for moving to Fond du Lac County?

Eligible participants can receive a package worth up to $9,500, including $5,500 in cash and $4,000 in local experiences and memberships.

Who is eligible for the relocation incentive?

Applicants must be at least 18 years old, live outside Wisconsin, earn at least $55,000 annually as a household, and commit to relocating within six months.

How long must participants stay in Fond du Lac County?

Selected applicants must agree to live in the county for at least one year.

Where can I apply?

Applications can be submitted through the official MakeMyMove platform, which manages the relocation program on behalf of Fond du Lac County.