If you’re a remote worker looking for a fresh start, consider moving to the Greater Cedar Rapids area for an irresistible offer: receive $5,600 to relocate to one of Iowa’s most affordable and welcoming communities. Nestled along the Cedar River in Eastern Iowa, Cedar Rapids is a mid-sized city known for its friendly vibe, low cost of living, and strong local pride. As Iowa’s second-largest city, it offers small-town charm with big-city perks, without the traffic or high housing costs.
Thanks to a new incentive program, remote workers earning $55K+ can get a cash bonus and other perks for moving to the Greater Cedar Rapids area, including Marion and Hiawatha. From biking the Cedar Valley Trail to catching a show at the Paramount Theatre, life here is easy to enjoy—and even easier to call home.
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What is an Incentive Program?
Relocation incentive programs attract new residents by offering cash bonuses, training opportunities, moving assistance, and local perks. These programs help communities grow their workforce while giving individuals the chance to build a new life. Often, they focus on targeting remote workers, recognizing their flexibility and potential to boost local economies. From small towns to mid-sized cities, more locations are launching these incentives to encourage people to settle down.
Cedar Rapids’ Incentive Program
Greater Cedar Rapids, Iowa, is the latest city to join the growing list of incentive programs. The city has an irresistible offer for remote workers, sponsored by the Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance. For eligible applicants, the package includes a $5,000 cash bonus for the move, a free Economic Alliance membership, and Parks and Recreation Vouchers. The total value of these perks combined is a whopping $5,600, and the city has hinted at more incentives to come. To apply for the incentive program, visit the official relocation incentive website and fill out an application for consideration.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for Cedar Rapids’ incentive program, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Employed full-time and able to relocate while keeping current job, or self-employed with the ability to maintain clients/portfolio after moving
- Annual income of $55,000 or more
- At least 18 years old
- Will move primary residence to Cedar Rapids, Marion, or Hiawatha within 6 months
- Currently live outside Iowa
- Able to verify eligibility with proof of the above requirements
Cedar Rapids
Cedar Rapids, Iowa, is the state’s second-largest city, home to around 140,000 residents. Founded in the 19th century along the Cedar River, the city grew as a hub for agriculture, manufacturing, and the arts. Known as the “City of Five Seasons,” Cedar Rapids prides itself on offering residents an extra “season” for enjoying life beyond the 9-5 grind. There are countless museums, theaters, and festivals to explore, alongside beautiful parks and riverfront trails. Affordable housing, a stable economy, and a strong sense of local pride make Cedar Rapids the perfect fit for anyone looking to put down roots.
Reasons to Move to Cedar Rapids, IA
Made up of several tight-knit neighborhoods, Cedar Rapids prides itself on its highly rated schools and green spaces for outdoor activities. The arts and cultural scene here engages the community, and local festivals and events take place regularly. The Amana Colonies Wurst Festival and Cedar Rapids Freedom Festival are especially popular with locals and newcomers alike.
The city’s affordable cost of living means your money goes further on housing, dining, and entertainment. The city of Cedar Rapids has been named one of the most affordable places to live in 2025. The cost of living is 10% lower than the national average, and housing costs are 31% lower than the national average. The median sale price for a home is around $359,000—a huge bonus for those looking to settle down in their forever home. For those looking to rent, the average cost of a two-bedroom sits around $1,000 monthly.
Why Remote Workers Will Love It
For remote workers, lower housing costs mean being able to invest more into a home with space to set up a comfortable home office. For those looking to switch things up, there are plenty of places in Cedar Rapids to explore. Whether you want to work from a nearby park or a local coffee shop, there are countless options to choose from.
Even without a daily work commute, the average drive within the city takes about 15 minutes. Naturally, this means less money and time spent on gas and sitting in traffic. Community events make it easy to connect without having an on-site job, and the laid-back atmosphere allows space to recharge.
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Hiawatha
Hiawatha, Iowa, is one of Greater Cedar Rapids’ most popular suburbs—and for good reason. Just north of Cedar Rapids, the city began as a rural township and was later incorporated in 1950. It is a small but growing city that has steadily developed into a close-knit community with a modern, forward-looking feel. With a population of around 7,000 residents, Hiawatha offers a quiet, suburban lifestyle while still providing access to local amenities. The suburb is known for prioritizing the maintenance of public spaces and strong local leadership. Hiawatha combines small-town charm with a commitment to growth and an excellent quality of life for residents.
Reasons to Move to Hiawatha, IA
Hiawatha features small-town comfort with quick access to everything you need. The city is known for its safe neighborhoods, walkable layout, and well-kept parks. Popular spots like Guthridge Park and Tucker Park provide green spaces for relaxing and attending local events. Seasonal favorites like the Hiawatha Farmers Market and the Fall Festival are great for connecting with the community. Nearby entertainment options like AirFX Trampoline Park and Mini Golf add family-friendly fun for a day out on the town. With excellent amenities and a focus on livability, it’s easy to call Hiawatha home.
Hiawatha’s cost of living is more affordable than most cities in the US, with a cost of living 8% lower than the national average. Housing expenses are 27% lower than the national average, with the median price of a home being around $379,000. For renters, the average rent for an apartment in this suburb is $1,140 a month. Additionally, the lower cost of living means being able to invest in other areas of your life—a huge bonus if you’re looking to save.
Why Remote Workers Will Love It
Hiawatha, Iowa, is ideal for those who work remotely thanks to its quiet neighborhoods, reliable high-speed internet, and low traffic. The city has several public spaces with free Wi-Fi, and the Hiawatha Public Library offers study rooms and a peaceful setting for remote work. Its location near major highways makes occasional trips to nearby business hubs fast and easy. With minimal distractions and quick access to scenic areas, Hiawatha helps remote workers stay focused, flexible, and refreshed.
Marion
Marion, Iowa, is a friendly and fast-growing suburb situated just northeast of Cedar Rapids. Larger than Hiawatha and known for its strong sense of identity, Marion blends the conveniences of city living with a welcoming, small-town feel. With a population of over 40,000 residents, it features a thriving downtown, beautiful parks, and a focus on arts, culture, and community development. Marion has invested heavily in revitalization projects and public spaces, making it a great place to live, work, and explore.
Reasons to Move to Marion, IA
Marion, Iowa, is known for its beautiful parks, lively uptown, and strong investment in community life. The Uptown Marion district offers a walkable mix of local shops, restaurants, and public art. The Lowe Park Arts & Environment Center hosts community concerts and festivals throughout the year. The Marion Arts Festival, a nationally ranked fine arts event that draws thousands, is especially well-loved. Families appreciate the city’s well-regarded schools and spacious neighborhoods. Nature lovers enjoy easy access to several parks and trails, including Thomas Park and Grant Wood Trail.
Marion’s cost of living is also 10% lower than the national average, with housing expenses that are 27% lower. The median home price in the city is around $381,000, and the median monthly rent for an apartment is $1,145. This is a huge advantage for residents, and allows more income for entertainment and fun outings.
Why Remote Workers Will Love It
Remote workers in Marion benefit from a peaceful, residential environment paired with modern amenities. The Marion Public Library, recently rebuilt with state-of-the-art facilities, offers quiet workspaces, meeting rooms, and strong Wi-Fi. Uptown Marion also features local co-working-friendly cafés, perfect for changing up your work routine. The city’s forward-thinking development, including high-speed internet infrastructure, supports remote work and small business growth. Plus, Marion’s walkable layout and quick access to trails make it easy to unplug and recharge during the workday.
Conclusion
If you’re a seasoned remote worker craving a better work-life balance and a fresh start, the Greater Cedar Rapids area offers an unbeatable combination of affordability, connection, and opportunity. With a generous $5,600 relocation incentive, you’re not just getting paid to move. You’re also gaining access to walkable downtowns, scenic trails, enriching arts scenes, and supportive neighborhoods.
From Cedar Rapids’ bustling city energy to Marion’s cultural charm and Hiawatha’s laid-back suburban vibe, each community brings something unique to the table. Add in low housing costs, short commutes, and remote work-friendly infrastructure, and it’s easy to see why the area is quickly becoming a top destination for remote workers. If you’re ready to trade high costs and burnout for community, space, and a higher quality of life, Greater Cedar Rapids is ready to welcome you home!
FAQs
Remote workers earning at least $55,000 annually, who are employed full-time or self-employed, at least 18 years old, currently live outside Iowa, and relocate to Cedar Rapids, Marion, or Hiawatha within six months are eligible.
The package includes a $5,000 cash incentive, membership to the Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance, and Parks and Recreation Vouchers. Altogether, the incentive is valued at $5,600.
No. This program is designed specifically for remote workers who can bring their job or freelance work with them to the Greater Cedar Rapids area.
Visit the official relocation incentive website, fill out the application form, and provide proof of eligibility (such as income, employment status, and relocation timeline).
Skylar Sanders is an Atlanta native and earned her BA in Film and Media Studies from Georgia State University in 2022. She is currently a graduate student at GSU studying Communications with a concentration in Digital Media Strategies. In her free time she enjoys being in nature, volunteering, creating digital art, and catching up on her favorite TV shows.
