Paducah is one of the cities located in western Kentucky, in the United States. In order to reactivate the economy and repopulate the city, they have launched an initiative called the Remote Worker Incentive Program.
With this program they intend to attract remote workers with a relocation plan that includes economic incentives.
Unlike other companies that already require their workers to return to their offices, the Kentucky authorities offer financial incentives such as relocation allowances, internet payments and payroll tax exemptions. A number of requirements must be met, but the benefits are considerable.
Paducah, Kentucky
With its capital in Frankfort, Kentucky is a state located in the southeastern United States. It is bordered by the Ohio River to the north and the Appalachian Mountains to the east. Among its cities are Louisville, considered the largest in the state, and Paducah, among others. Paducah belongs to McCracken County. With a population of 27,749 inhabitants, it is known for its world famous National Quilt Museum. It is also one of nine UNESCO Creative Cities in the United States.
Working remote
Teleworking is a work modality through which the worker can perform his tasks remotely without the need to be in an office. It requires communication skills and the use of technological tools, such as a computer. This modality of work was boosted by the pandemic after COVID-19. It was the perfect scenario to put it into practice and adapt both companies and workers to this new reality and work method.
What is going on in Paducah?
In an effort to revive the city’s economy and take advantage of the opportunity to repopulate the city, the city of Paducah has launched an attractive measure for remote workers.
The initiative is called the Remote Worker Incentive Program, and offers various financial incentives to workers. The idea is to attract the working population and have them establish the city as their place of residence. What does the program offer:
- Up to $2,500 for moving expenses, rental deposits, down payment on the home, packing. Any service that involves a cost in the new home.
- Payroll tax exemption. A 2% tax is applied during the first year of residence.
- Monthly subsidy of $70. It is destined to the Internet supply during one year.
- A payment of $1,150 as a “quality of life package”. Includes trainings, memberships and entrance fees to museums, cultural events, coworking spaces and educational centers.
Who can apply for this program?
To access these benefits, a series of requirements must be met:
- Be 21 years of age or older.
- Live more than 100 miles from Paducah.
- Be working in a company that does not have an office.
- Within three months of acceptance, you must settle in Paducah.
- Commitment to have the primary residence in the city for two years (the first with financial benefits and the second additional).
Attractions for the city growth
As if the total economic benefits weren’t enough to convince teleworkers to move to Paducah, there’s more. Some states in the country suffer the consequences of a scarce and expensive, or even non-existent, housing supply. This is not the case in Paducah, where housing is relatively affordable.
According to Realtor.com, the median sales price of a home in the city is $260,000, while Apartments.com lists the median rent at $900. Accessibility to housing is certainly one of the first factors to consider when considering a move to a new city or state. In the case of Paducah, it offers some peace of mind to remote workers considering this option.
Creative city
Paducah is known for being one of UNESCO’s Creative Cities. This title recognizes the city’s commitment to art and design in all its aspects. It has renowned schools and many recreational options.
A city that has the National Quilt Museum, known worldwide. What about you? Are you a remote worker? What do you think about the new initiative offered by the state of Kentucky?
