**The Best Thing About Atlanta?**  It Has It All

Atlanta is perfectly situated to offer the best of the best from all cities in the US. You want a New York feel? Perfect, move to Midtown where you have gorgeous Central Park-esque Piedmont Park situated right next to the bustling city skyscrapers. If you want the charm of a college town, we have Tech and GSU all inside the Perimeter. The Tech Village in Buckhead is a close rival to San Francisco's Silicon Valley. The craft brewery scene is lively enough to make Portland jealous! And you can’t forget about the history; Atlanta is home to the National Center for Civil and Human Rights as well as the King Center and Birth Home of MLK Jr. Nightlife, walkable neighborhoods with local coffee shops, Instagram-worthy murals, and all four seasons make this the best of every city you’ve ever been to. 

**The Worst Thing About Atlanta?**  Traffic

Atlanta traffic is no joke. We redefine long distance relationships. “Oh you live in Decatur? I’m sorry but this isn’t going to work. I just moved to the westside.” It’s not uncommon to see commutes around an hour one-way. If you can live close enough to a MARTA stop, that will be your saving grace. But remember, there are only two lines - the north/south and the east/west.

**How You Living?**  The Battle of Charm and Function

Are you looking for charm? Snag a small bungalow in Candler Park or a house-converted-into-apartments south of Piedmont. These spots are full of both charm and sometimes...cockroaches. The payoff is worth it to most and just make sure you have your exterminator on speed dial. 
If you’re looking for amenities and function, there are more than enough luxury apartments to go around. If not, just look for cranes, a telltale sign that your favorite neighborhood is about to get a bit more busy. These buildings often include gyms, pools, and, if you’re lucky, a rooftop shared space! 

**Why You Should Move Here Now?**  Move Now Before It’s Too Late

The one thing you won’t see a shortage of in Atlanta is cranes. They may be an eyesore, but they’re an indication that Atlanta is growing and shows no signs of stopping anytime soon. With everything the city has to offer, apartments go fast and it won’t be long before we don’t have any more room to grow! 


Atlanta

(At-lan-nuh)

Augusta

Masters City

Macon

Mac-Town

Savannah

The Garden Of Good And Evil 

Athens

Classic City

Sandy Springs

Sandy Springers

Roswell

Enchanted Land

Johns Creek

Alpharetta

Technology City of the South

Marietta

Gem City

South Fulton

South Fultonites

East Cobb

Newnan

City of Homes

Decatur

Dunwoody

Funwoody

Peachtree City

The Bubble

## About the Programs

***

### Real Property Tax Abatement

SEDA is authorized to grant property tax abatements on real property for qualifying new or expanding businesses based on board authorized guidelines with thresholds for job growth, investment, wage rates and other factors. Projects can be new construction, expansion or renovation within target industries.

### Grant Financing/Discretionary Funding

In projects of great significance SEDA has an established Economic Development Incentive Fund to provide grant monies to qualified businesses in order to defray cost as a result of relocation or expansion. This money will go towards any costs associated with needed infrastructure.

### Personal Property Tax Abatement

SEDA is authorized to grant tax abatements for new investment in personal property in Chatham County when such personal property is titled in the name of SEDA and will be not less than $100,000,000 in new investment over a thirty-six month period and will create or maintain a minimum of 400 direct, fulltime equivalent jobs.

### Foreign-Trade Zone 104

[World Trade Center Savannah](https://www.wtcsavannah.org/) is the administrator of [Foreign-Trade Zone 104](https://www.wtcsavannah.org/services/foreign-trade-zone-104/), which allows delayed, reduced and sometimes eliminated duty payment on foreign merchandize admitted to a zone, as well as other savings. Properties within the FTZ 104 region may be designated as an FTZ. [Contact Leigh Ryan](mailto:lryan@wtcsavannah.org) to learn more details.

### World Trade Center Savannah

[World Trade Center Savannah](https://www.wtcsavannah.org/) is a proactive international business and trade development organization that exists to create jobs and attract investment by helping facilitate foreign direct investment opportunities for the region and by helping regional businesses do business internationally. Services include business development, trade missions, Global Education Programs, networking, customized in-depth research and more. A member of World Trade Centers Association, WTCSav is part of a network of more than 300 World Trade Centers in 100 countries.

### Business Retention & Expansion

At SEDA, we don’t just walk away after the ribbon cutting, we value “service after the sale.” We realize the importance of the businesses and industries that already contribute to the economy and create jobs in Savannah and Chatham County. Through SEDA’s Business Retention & Expansion programs (BRE), SEDA can facilitate the support services many local businesses need to expand and grow right in their own backyard.

Each year, SEDA’s BRE team conducts site visits with local businesses to inform them of programs, services and resources including workforce development, business development, training, community involvement and expansion and investment incentives.

### Entertainment Production

The Savannah Economic Development Authority offers the Savannah Entertainment Production Incentives. The local film and television incentives partnered with Georgia’s already existing incentives, have helped build a sustainable production industry by increasing the number of qualified crew members living and working in the area and increasing the number of film and television productions in the Chatham County region. More information can be found at [Savannah Regional Film Commission](https://www.savannahfilm.org/).

***

### Additional Local Incentives

SEDA’s goal is to attract high-wage, quality jobs and we strive to find creative solutions to incentivize qualified projects. New or existing businesses may qualify for additional incentives including:

* Build-to-lease options
* Utility Infrastructure
* Waiver of local permit and connection fees
* Local road work
* Environmental studies/soil borings
* Subsidized rent
* Temporary office space
* Cost offsets for LEED certification or sustainable building
* Tax allocation district financing
* Tax Exempt Industrial Revenue Bonds (IRBs)
* And others

***

## **City of Savannah and Chatham County Incentives**

### County Inventory Tax Exemption

A Freeport Exemption (Inventory Tax Exemption) can be offered at the county and city level by choice of the local governments. Chatham County and City of Savannah currently exempt at 100 percent.

Companies must apply for this exemption by April 1 of each year. For more information, contact the Chatham County Board of Assessor’s Office and find the exemption form [here](https://cccdn.blob.core.windows.net/cdn/Files/BoardofAssessors/Forms/PT_50PF_FORM.pdf).

### Foreign Merchandise in Transit Exemption

Chatham County exempts goods from the County personal property taxes when warehoused in Chatham County and has entered the export stream although temporarily stored or warehoused in the County where the port of export is located or the property has been or will be moved by waterborne commerce through the Port of Savannah and U.S. customs duties will be or already paid at the Port of Savannah and the goods are in transit to a final destination outside Chatham County, which means there must be a contract of sale. For more information, contact the Chatham County Board of Assessor’s Office and find the exemption form [here](https://cccdn.blob.core.windows.net/cdn/Files/BoardofAssessors/Forms/ptFMIT.pdf).

### Enterprise, Military and Opportunity Zones

There are several incentivized zones located in our region. To learn more, [click here](https://www.savannahga.gov/1531/Incentive-Zones).

### Economic Development Credits

Pursuant to O.C.G.A. §48-13-10(f), as amended by H.B.175, economic development credits against business taxes owed may be granted to one or more types of businesses or practitioners of occupations or professions as part of a plan for economic development for the purpose of attracting, encouraging, or maintaining selected types of businesses or professions. [The Office of Business Opportunity](http://savannahga.gov/483/Office-of-Business-Opportunity) at the City of Savannah may grant such credits according to established criteria of an adopted economic development plan. Economic development credits may take the form of a tax certificate issued by the Office of Business Opportunity setting forth the type and amount of business tax credit for a specific business or practitioner of an occupation or profession, and the year(s) to which such credits are applicable. The Revenue Department will grant any such economic development credits by reducing the amount of business tax due upon presentation and surrender of a tax certificate by a business or practitioner of an occupation or profession.

### Reduction in Tap-in Fees

The City of Savannah will consider reducing fees associated with tapping into the water and sewer lines. This reduction is negotiated between you and representatives from the City and is based on your projected usage.

***

## Georgia Tax Incentives

The State of Georgia offers a range of incentives that spur job and investment growth for qualifying new and established businesses. The Georgia business tax environment benefits companies in so many ways. The state’s corporate tax rate has been kept low for 50 years and qualified investments made in R\&D, port use, childcare, job growth and more can lead to various tax credits and exemptions. In addition to tax credits and exemptions there are workforce incentives including [Quick Start](https://www.georgiaquickstart.org/), Retraining Credits, hiring assistance and more. For more information on Georgia’s incentives visit the [Georgia Department of Economic Development](https://www.georgia.org/competitive-advantages/incentives) and check out the latest incentives [brochure](http://online.flowpaper.com/79590748/BusinessIncentivesBrochure/#page=1).

### Job Tax Credits

Creating new jobs in Georgia is a good way to reduce (and potentially eliminate) your company’s corporate tax liability.

The Georgia Job Tax Credit gives you a credit ranging from $1,250 to $4,000 per year for 5 years for every new job created. In certain areas, the credit can also lower your payroll withholding obligations. To learn more [click here](https://www.georgia.org/competitive-advantages/incentives/tax-credits).

### **Georgia Sales and Use Tax Exemptions**

Georgia offers sales and use tax exemptions for Manufacturing Machinery & Equipment, Repair to Industrial Equipment, Raw Materials and Packaging, Energy Used in Manufacturing, Primary Material Handling Equipment, Pollution Control Equipment, Computer Hardware and Software for High Technology Companies, Clean Room Equipment, Water Costs, and Telecommunications Services. For specific details, [click here](https://www.georgia.org/sales-tax-and-use-tax-exemptions).

### Quick Start Employee Training

[Georgia Quick Start](https://www.georgiaquickstart.org/) – the No. 1 workforce training program in the U.S. – designs, develops and delivers customized workforce training, free of charge, for qualified companies that are creating or retaining jobs in Georgia. Quick Start is a part of the Technical College System of Georgia, and supports new and expanding companies, and specializes in startups and technology transfer. The training is provided as a discretionary incentive to attract investment and job creation to Georgia.

Quick Start’s comprehensive training can range from pre-employment assessments to training in advanced manufacturing, Industry 4.0 technologies, and organizational development. [Quick Start](https://www.georgiaquickstart.org/) also develops customized training to meet the needs of companies in numerous business sectors including manufacturing, distribution, customer contact, headquarters and more. Quick Start has worked with companies in business sectors ranging from automotive to aviation, food to biotechnology, chemicals to composites.

### WorkSource Georgia

WorkSource Georgia is the state’s federally-funded employment and training system, working to connect talent with opportunity. These federal funds are part of a grant program called the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA).

At a local level, [WorkSource Georgia](https://tcsg.edu/worksource/) provides Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act services across the state through the Coastal Georgia office. WIOA funds are allotted to individuals or businesses and administered specifically through services geared toward helping disadvantaged citizens obtain meaningful employment.

### HOPE Scholarship

[HOPE](http://www.gafutures.org/) is Georgia’s unique scholarship and grant program that rewards Georgia students who are pursuing an undergraduate degree or certification with financial assistance at eligible Georgia public and private colleges and public technical colleges. The [HOPE Grant](https://tcsg.edu/free-tuition/) encourages technical training with no specific GPA requirements in high school.

### Georgia Centers of Innovation

The [Georgia Centers of Innovation](https://www.georgia.org/georgia-centers-of-innovation)(COI) are the state’s leading resource for facilitating business innovation. Through the assistance of the five centers, Georgia companies translate new ideas and technologies into commercially viable products and services to better compete in the global marketplace. This economic catalyst, in turn, promotes the continued growth of the state’s economy. A division of the Georgia Department of Economic Development, COI provides the leading technical industry expertise, research collaborations, and business partnerships to help the state’s strategic industries connect, compete and grow. Five individual centers operate statewide with a focus on Aerospace, Energy Technology, Information Technology, Logistics and Manufacturing.

***

## Small Business and Entrepreneurs Assistance

### Small Business Assistance Corporation

The Small Business Assistance Corporation (SBAC) is a Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI), certified by the U.S. Department of Treasury. Additionally, SBAC is a Community Advantage Lender and a Certified Development Company (CDC) licensed by the U. S. Small Business Administration (SBA), and contracted by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), [Georgia’s Department of Community Affairs (DCA)](http://www.dca.ga.gov/), and the [City of Savannah,](http://savannahga.gov/) to promote small business development through financing and technical assistance. For more information on SBAC loans [click here](https://sbacsav.com/mission/our-services/print-a-sbac-program-quick-guide/).

***

## Explore Communities Across Georgia

You've learned about the program. Now explore Georgia communities to better understand the places where your business—and your team—could thrive.

**Explore:**

* LookyLOO Reviews of Georgia Cities
* Neighborhood Guides
* Local Reviews
* Schools & Quality of Life
* Save Georgia Markets to your Project Book

[**Explore Georgia→**](https://lookyloomove.com/states/georgia)

Savannah, Chatham and State of Georgia Taxes & Incentives

Georgia Dream Homeownership Incentive Program

The Georgia Dream Homeownership Program makes purchasing a home possible for eligible residents. Georgia Dream provides affordable financing options, down payment and closing cost assistance, and homebuyer education. Active military members, public protectors, educators, healthcare providers, and residents with family members living with a disability qualify for special down payment loan options.

## Apply for the Georgia Dream Homeownership Program?

* ## Determine if You’re Eligible
  To qualify for the Georgia Dream Homeownership Program, you must:
  * Be a first-time homebuyer, have not owned a home in the past three years, or be purchasing a home in certain areas of Georgia.
  * Not have a household income that exceeds the maximum household income ([visit the Georgia Department of Community Affairs website](https://www.dca.ga.gov/safe-affordable-housing/homeownership/georgia-dream/homebuyers) for income limits).
  * Have liquid assets of no more than $20,000 or 20% of the sales price (whichever is greater).
  * Meet mortgage loan credit requirements.
  * Be purchasing a home with a sales price that does not exceed the limit (varies by county).
  * [Visit the Georgia Department of Community Affairs website for more eligibility details](https://www.dca.ga.gov/safe-affordable-housing/homeownership/georgia-dream).
* ## Gather What You’ll Need
  Qualifying for a mortgage through the Georgia Dream program requires certain documentation. Please work closely with your lender to collect and fill out all the required forms and paperwork. Required documents include:
  * Most recent 3 consecutive years IRS transcripts
  * Most recent signed complete personal tax returns
  * A copy of lender’s Delegated Underwriter’s Transmittal signed 92900LT form with comments stating his/her review of the application
  * Credit report
  * Fraud report
  * A signed Application Affidavit form (required by Georgia Dream)
  * Signed letter of explanation addressing all prior addresses and no prior homeownership or a copy of the no-record results to the IRS request for the prior 3 years 1098 transcripts
  * A minimum of $1,000 to put toward your home purchase
* ## Get Qualified
  Contact a Georgia Dream Participating Lender to pre-qualify and begin the mortgage loan process. Visit the Georgia Department of Community Affairs (DCA) website for a [list of participating lenders](https://dca.georgia.gov/affordable-housing/home-ownership/georgia-dream-mortgage-products/georgia-dream-lenders-0) or call DCA at 1-800-359-HOME (4663) to get started.
* ## Next Steps
  * Once you are pre-qualified, you can begin your home search process.
  * Homebuyer counseling is required for all Georgia Dream loans. Georgia Dream borrowers must attend and complete either a homebuyer education workshop,  an individual [housing counseling sessions](https://www.dca.ga.gov/safe-affordable-housing/homeownership/georgia-dream/homebuyers/dcas-approved-housing-counseling), or an online homebuyer education course through E-Home America.
  * The average Georgia Dream process takes about 60 days from application to closing.

***



## Thinking About Georgia?

You've learned about the program. Now explore communities across Georgia to find the place that's the best fit for you.

Explore:

* LookyLOO Reviews of Georgia cities
* Neighborhood Guides
* Local Reviews
* Schools
* Lifestyle
* Save cities to your Movebook

[**Explore Georgia →**](https://lookyloomove.com/states/georgia)

Georgia Dream Homeownership Incentive Program

# About the Program

Georgia Quick Start is a discretionary incentive providing customized, company-specific workforce training at no cost to companies investing in and creating jobs in Georgia.

## Program Structure:&#x20;

### Collaboration:&#x20;

To begin a training partnership, Quick Start meets with company leadership, subject-matter experts, and operations teams to define the scope of training needs.

### Development

Different job tasks require different training methods. With an emphasis on visual learning and hands-on training, Quick Start maps out training plans unique for each company.

### Delivery

“Flexible and responsive” have been Quick Start’s watchwords for decades. We deliver the training whenever and wherever it makes sense for each company project.

### Confidential

Successful training projects require trust. That can only be achieved by Quick Start, upholding the highest standards of confidentiality to protect a company’s intellectual property.


***

## Explore Georgia Communities

You've learned about the program. Now explore Arizona communities to see what it's like to live and work in the places where your business could grow.

**Explore:**

* LookyLOO Reviews of Georgia Cities
* Neighborhood Guides
* Local Reviews
* Schools & Quality of Life
* Save Communities to Your Project Book

[**Explore Georgia→**](https://lookyloomove.com/states/georgia)

Georgia Quick Start Workforce Incentive Program

## About the Program

***

### About the Regional Economic Business Assistance Program

REBA funds may be used to finance various fixed-asset needs of a company including infrastructure, real estate acquisition, construction, or machinery and equipment. A local development authority must be the applicant for a REBA application and the application must be supported by a recommendation letter from a state agency, typically the Georgia Department of Economic Development.

***

#### Program Overview:

Regional Economic Business Assistance (REBA) is a state-funded incentive program designed to enhance Georgia’s competitiveness in attracting sizeable economic development projects and acts as a vehicle for significant local, regional, or statewide initiatives having short- or longterm economic development benefits. Generally, REBA funds are targeted for projects in nonrural counties. REBA’s goal is to help “close the deal” when companies are considering Georgia and another state or country for their location or expansion. Funds may be used to finance various fixed-asset needs of a company including infrastructure, real estate acquisition, construction, or machinery and equipment. A local development authority must be the applicant for a REBA application and the application must be supported by a recommendation letter from a state agency, typically the Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDECD).

***

#### ELIGIBLE USES&#x20;

Infrastructure • Real Estate Acquisition • Construction • Machinery & Equipment&#x20;

#### ELIGIBLE APPLICANTS&#x20;

General purpose local governments (municipalities and counties) • Local government authorities • Regional development centers • State agencies and state authorities

***

## Explore Georgia Communities

You've learned about the program. Now explore Arizona communities to see what it's like to live and work in the places where your business could grow.

**Explore:**

* LookyLOO Reviews of Georgia Cities
* Neighborhood Guides
* Local Reviews
* Schools & Quality of Life
* Save Communities to Your Project Book

[**Explore Georgia→**](https://lookyloomove.com/states/georgia)

REBA Georgia Incentive Program

## About the Program

***

Small and mid-sized businesses in Georgia benefit from one-on-one support from the Georgia Center of Innovation team. Find help solving real problems, from contacting the right research partners to connecting with shippers who can get your product to the world. Plus, through the state’s relationships with many of Georgia’s leading corporations, solutions are being developed right here that create a better world. Importantly, no matter the size, businesses in Georgia can tap into shared knowledge and connections that strengthen the state’s innovation ecosystem. 

***

### Program Elements:

**Customized Business Support**

Whether you’re scaling a business, solving technical challenges, or exploring new ideas, our Innovation team can guide or connect you with the right partner. 

**How we help:**

* **Industry Expertise** – Work with specialists who bring decades of experience to Georgia’s key industries.
* **Strategic Connections** – Connect with suppliers, research institutions, universities, and other partners.
* **Innovation Ecosystem Access** – Tap into incubators, accelerators, and innovation hubs across Georgia.
* **Market and Industry Insights** – Gain valuable data and trends to help inform smart business decisions and identify growth opportunities.

***

## Explore Georgia Communities

You've learned about the program. Now explore Arizona communities to see what it's like to live and work in the places where your business could grow.

**Explore:**

* LookyLOO Reviews of Georgia Cities
* Neighborhood Guides
* Local Reviews
* Schools & Quality of Life
* Save Communities to Your Project Book

[**Explore Georgia→**](https://lookyloomove.com/states/georgia)

Georgia Center of Innovation

Georgia

California

Michigan

Iowa

New Jersey

New York

Maine

Alaska

Arizona

Minnesota

Colorado’s appeal is multilayered. Of course, there are the Rockies—snow-capped peaks, ski resorts, and Instagrammable vistas—but beyond the obvious, the state reveals itself in its micro-regions and quirks.

Denver has grown into a full-fledged metro, attracting industries from aerospace to fintech. Neighborhoods like RiNo and Cap Hill pulse with murals, independent bookstores, and some of the best third-wave coffee west of the Mississippi. Yet, 20 minutes outside the city, you’ll find Golden, a once-sleepy brewery town now thriving with young families, hikers, and mountain bikers—all while still housing Coors’ giant facility.

Boulder, perched between rugged wilderness and intellectual ambition, is equal parts Patagonia fleece and startup pitch decks. It’s home to Naropa University (the country’s only accredited Buddhist-inspired school) and the National Center for Atmospheric Research, reflecting the state’s unique mix of spiritual curiosity and scientific rigor.

To the north, Fort Collins flies a little under the radar but boasts Colorado State University, a jumping historic downtown, and enough breweries to rival cities twice its size. Meanwhile, Colorado Springs feels like a different state altogether—home to multiple military installations, it leans more conservative but surprises visitors with epic natural landmarks like Garden of the Gods and the quirky artist enclave Manitou Springs, where mineral springs bubble out of old-timey fountains.

Then there are the mountain towns that get less attention than Aspen or Vail:

- Salida: An artsy river town known for whitewater festivals and a historic downtown dotted with galleries.
- Paonia: Tucked on the Western Slope, it’s where organic farmers, artists, and winemakers coexist—a quieter, greener slice of Colorado.
- Crested Butte: A former mining town turned "wildflower capital of Colorado," still fiercely local despite its world-class skiing.
- Leadville: The highest-elevation incorporated city in the U.S., with Wild West vibes, antique shops, and a reputation for producing ultra-endurance athletes.

- Even Pueblo, long dismissed as a steel town, is experiencing a mini-renaissance—check out its green chile scene, which locals claim beats New Mexico’s any day.


**Lifestyle**

Colorado is all about the blend: high-intensity outdoor pursuits and laid-back social life. People measure days by powder totals or trail mileage, but they’re equally serious about craft beer, local music, and farm-to-table brunch.

There’s a statewide obsession with gear—ski racks are practically standard issue—and the unspoken dress code skews toward Patagonia puffer jackets, trail runners, and trucker hats. Even at upscale restaurants, you’ll find Gore-Tex mingling with linen.
Summer weekends revolve around farmers' markets, mountain festivals (like Telluride Bluegrass), and patio culture, where people sip IPAs while their dogs lounge nearby. Yes, 
Colorado is one of the most dog-friendly states in the country—don’t be surprised to see pups on brewery patios, hiking trails, and even paddleboards.

The weed industry is fully mainstream here—legal since 2012, dispensaries now sit next to yoga studios, and CBD drinks are common on menus. Despite the outdoor glamour, winters can drag, especially along the Front Range, where weeks of “brown season” (dry, gray winter days) test your patience if you’re not skiing every weekend.


**Who’s Moving to Colorado?**

- Outdoor Diehards: Skiers, mountain bikers, climbers, and trail runners all build their lives around nature’s calendar.

- Remote Workers: Many are now settling in places like Buena Vista, Pagosa Springs, or Ouray for mountain views and coworking spaces that offer reliable fiber internet.

- Young Professionals: Cities like Denver, Boulder, and Fort Collins attract college graduates seeking startup jobs in tech and a social scene that is outdoorsy and active.

- Families: Suburban areas such as Louisville, Superior, and Castle Rock provide excellent schools, greenbelts, and proximity to both the city and the mountains.

- Military & Veterans: Particularly in Colorado Springs, where military bases and VA services have a significant presence.

- Artists, Creatives, and Off-Gridders: These individuals are moving to smaller towns like Paonia, Crestone (known for its spiritual retreats), and Trinidad, where former mining towns are being transformed into vibrant art communities.

**Worklife** 

**Major Industries:**

- Aerospace & Defense: Lockheed Martin, Raytheon, and dozens of military installations fuel this sector.

- Tech & Startups: Boulder leads, but Denver is fast catching up with expansions from Google, Amazon, and a strong venture capital scene.

- Healthcare & Life Sciences: Anchored by the Anschutz Medical Campus in Aurora and countless health-tech startups.

- Outdoor Rec & Tourism: A massive industry—from ski resorts to bike gear startups like Yeti Cycles.

- Renewable Energy & Green Tech: Solar farms, wind energy, and electric vehicle infrastructure are booming, especially east of Denver.

- Craft Beer & Cannabis: Both industries are major employers and cultural forces. Denver’s Great American Beer Festival draws thousands annually.

The work culture here is serious about productivity but just as serious about play. Flex hours are common—so is the “Friday early out” to chase powder or head to the hills. People here don’t brag about work hours—they brag about the number of 14ers climbed.

**Why Move Here Now?**

Colorado’s mix of economic opportunity and lifestyle remains hard to beat, but the secret’s long been out. Housing costs—especially in Denver, Boulder, and mountain towns—are steep. Still, the “live where you vacation” dream is possible, especially if you’re strategic about location.

Remote work has made previously overlooked places—think Montrose, Rifle, or Florence—more appealing. These towns offer affordability, mountain access, and emerging arts scenes without the crowds or costs of Summit County.
Meanwhile, climate-conscious infrastructure investments and Colorado’s renewable energy push are attracting a new wave of green tech talent. If you’re looking for a place where your weekends feel like a vacation, your weekdays pay the bills, and your backyard is the view—Colorado still delivers.

Just be ready for the quirks: expect your weather app to lie, brace for spring hailstorms, and know that people here take their green chile—and their Broncos—very seriously.

Colorado

Florida

Hawaii

Illinois

Indiana

Kansas

Kentucky

Louisiana

Virginia offers a little bit of everything—beaches, busy cities, historic towns, mountain views, and adventures for the outdoorsy types.  Families can find charming colonial neighborhoods to settle in or a tech-driven suburb, and young professionals (or families) will find cities known for culture and lifestyle (tons of breweries) —and none of it feels out of place.

Northern Virginia cities like Arlington, Alexandria, and Fairfax get a lot of attention for their young professional scene, government jobs (shaky right now but still), and shiny high-rises. But head west, and things shift—Charlottesville, Richmond, and Roanoke are growing fast, thanks to lower housing costs, beautiful scenery, and thriving food and arts communities.
And yes, Virginia’s got beaches. Virginia Beach and Norfolk offer a relaxed coastal lifestyle while still keeping you within driving distance of larger cities.
Lifestyle 

Virginia balances history and modern life better than most. There are amazing historic landmarks and battlefield tours, but it’s also a growing tech hub, home to a solid craft beer scene, and packed with outdoor activities—from hiking in the Shenandoah Mountains to kayaking in the Chesapeake Bay.

Public schools, especially in Northern Virginia, are notably strong, with Thomas Jefferson High School (TJ)  in Alexandria frequently rated the #1 public high school in the country. You get four distinct seasons, plenty of small-town festivals, and easy access to both mountains and beaches. Outdoor lovers will feel right at home.


**Who’s Moving to Virginia?**

- Families: Especially to Northern Virginia and Richmond suburbs for the schools, safety, and space.

- Young professionals: Drawn to government (prepare for this to change), tech, and consulting jobs in DC-adjacent areas like Arlington and Alexandria.

- Retirees and second-home buyers: Looking for less expensive mountain views or coastal living.

- Military families: With large bases in Norfolk, Virginia Beach, and Quantico.


**Worklife**

Virginia has a strong job market with several major industries driving growth:

- Government and defense: Big in Northern Virginia and Hampton Roads although federal jobs are disappearing. 

- Tech and data centers: Amazon HQ2 in Arlington and Loudoun County’s “Data Center Alley”

- Healthcare and education: UVA, VCU, and major hospital networks

- Tourism, shipping, and military: Especially along the coast

The state consistently ranks as one of the best for business. Salaries are strong, especially near DC, though the cost of living is higher there too. Farther south or west, your money goes a lot further.


**Why Move Here Now?**

Virginia is hitting a good stride—a strong economy, a cultural boost in mid-sized cities, and more opportunities popping up beyond the DC suburbs. If you want East Coast energy without New York or Boston prices, Virginia’s a great option.
There’s a lot to like: solid job prospects, a wide range of places to live, and easy access to nature. Remote workers are starting to notice cities like Charlottesville and Richmond for their charm and affordability. And if you’re in tech, Amazon’s expansion means even more jobs on the horizon.

Bottom Line: Move for the jobs, stay for the mountain views, farmers markets, and the fact that you can hike on Saturday and hit the beach on Sunday. Virginia’s got space for you


Virginia

Massachusetts

Mississippi

Missouri

Montana

Nebraska

Nevada

New Mexico

North Carolina is one of the fastest-growing states in the country, driven by a combination of economic opportunity, natural beauty, and a more reasonable cost of living than many large metro areas on the East Coast. For people looking to bail on expensive cities like New York, Boston, or D.C., North Carolina’s growing mid-sized cities hit a sweet spot—offering urban energy without the overwhelming cost or scale.

Charlotte and Raleigh remain the fastest-growing hubs, but what’s fueling the state’s appeal are cities like Durham, Winston-Salem, Greensboro, and Asheville. These places have seen significant investment in arts, culture, and local businesses, creating vibrant downtowns and neighborhoods while maintaining accessibility and affordability. Wilmington, with its historic riverfront and proximity to beaches, adds a coastal option with similar momentum.

North Carolina offers a blend of lifestyles—from dense city cores to suburban communities and small mountain or coastal towns—all within a state that delivers four distinct seasons and easy access to both the Atlantic and the Appalachians.

**Lifestyle** 

Living in North Carolina means having access to almost every kind of landscape and lifestyle you can imagine. The mountains of western North Carolina, including the Blue Ridge and Smokies, draw hikers, climbers, and people looking for small-town life with incredible scenery. Asheville anchors the region with a nationally recognized food scene, music venues, craft breweries, and a progressive arts community—all surrounded by nature.
Along the coast, places like Wilmington, New Bern, and the Outer Banks offer a completely different pace of life—historic charm, beach towns, and maritime culture.

In between, North Carolina’s mid-sized cities have grown into dynamic cultural hubs. Durham, once defined by tobacco warehouses, is now a food, music, and startup center, balancing grit and growth. Greensboro and Winston-Salem have embraced their history while building arts districts, indie music venues, and foodie scenes that attract newcomers looking for quality of life without the price tag of bigger cities.
Outdoor recreation is baked into the lifestyle—weekends are often spent hiking, kayaking, hitting the coast, or exploring dozens of state parks. Meanwhile, urban centers keep adding restaurants, music festivals, museums, and farmers markets that make daily life feel rich and varied.

Housing costs have risen, particularly in Charlotte, Raleigh, and Asheville, but remain notably more reasonable compared to cities like D.C., New York, or Boston. Mid-sized cities and suburbs still offer affordable homeownership options, which continues to draw families, young professionals, and retirees.


**Who’s Moving to North Carolina?**

Young professionals and remote workers: The combination of job opportunities and lifestyle has put places like Raleigh, Durham, and Charlotte on the map. Increasingly, mid-sized cities like Winston-Salem, Greensboro, and Asheville are drawing remote workers who want cultural amenities without the high price tag.

- Families: Good schools, growing suburbs, and attainable home prices make North Carolina a top choice for families leaving higher-cost states. Suburban areas around Raleigh and Charlotte, like Cary or Huntersville, are growing fast.

- Retirees: North Carolina is a retirement destination—particularly western towns like Asheville, Hendersonville, and Boone, or coastal towns like New Bern and Southport, where people are drawn to the mild climate and slower pace of life.

- Tech, biotech, and finance workers: Raleigh-Durham’s Research Triangle remains a major driver of growth, along with Charlotte’s powerhouse banking sector. Mid-sized cities are seeing a ripple effect as people seek affordability near these job centers.


**Worklife** 

North Carolina’s economy is diverse, which has helped it stay resilient and attractive to new residents:

- Tech, biotech, and healthcare: The Research Triangle (Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill) is home to major universities, research parks, and a growing number of startups and tech companies. This area competes nationally for talent.

- Finance and banking: Charlotte is the second-largest banking center in the U.S., home to Bank of America and major offices for Wells Fargo, Truist, and others.

- Education: With strong public universities and private colleges, education remains a huge employer, feeding into the region’s research and innovation economy.

- Tourism, arts, and service industries: The mountains and coast pull in millions of visitors each year, supporting a growing tourism economy that fuels restaurants, shops, and creative industries in cities and small towns alike.

- Remote work is also changing the landscape, as people relocate from expensive markets to cities like Asheville or Wilmington, seeking a better work-life balance without sacrificing culture or community.


**Why Move Here Now?**

North Carolina is in that rare window of growth where the state feels exciting but still livable. While housing costs are rising, they remain manageable compared to the Northeast or West Coast. Newcomers are often surprised at how much house—or quality of life—they can afford here.

The job market is strong, especially in tech, biotech, finance, and education, and there’s momentum in the arts, food, and cultural scenes, particularly in mid-sized cities that still feel accessible.

If you’re looking for a place that offers career opportunities, space to explore, and a more affordable cost of living—all without sacrificing culture—North Carolina’s cities, especially its rising mid-sized ones, are worth a serious look.


North Carolina

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Maryland might be one of the smallest states by land area, but it feels expansive in the variety of places, landscapes, and cultures you’ll find here. Locals sometimes call it “America in Miniature”—and it fits. Within a few hours, you can go from the crab houses and maritime history of the Eastern Shore to the rolling farmland and horse country of Howard and Carroll counties, then up into the Appalachian foothills in Western Maryland.

Baltimore—gritty, beautiful, and still deeply local—anchors the state with its historic brick row houses, growing arts scene, and a complicated but evolving identity. It’s a city of neighborhoods, from the cobblestone streets of Fells Point to the indie shops and music venues in Hampden. Johns Hopkins and the University of Maryland draw researchers, students, and healthcare workers, while the Port of Baltimore keeps the city tied to global trade.

The DC suburbs—places like Bethesda, Silver Spring, Rockville, and College Park—are among the most diverse in the country. They’re fast-paced, career-driven, and home to major employers in tech, healthcare, defense, and international policy. Montgomery County consistently ranks high for public school systems, while Prince George’s County—once overlooked—is booming with development and homeownership among Black professionals.

Then there’s the Chesapeake Bay—arguably Maryland’s emotional center. Fishing villages, waterfront towns, and a deep-rooted culture of crabbing and boating shape life here. In places like St. Michaels or Solomons, watermen traditions meet weekenders from DC.


**Lifestyle** 

Maryland is a state of contrasts:

- Outdoors: Summers bring locals out for blue crab feasts, sailing regattas, and Eastern Shore beaches like Ocean City or Assateague Island, where wild ponies roam. Hikers find solace in the Catoctin Mountains or the Maryland stretch of the Appalachian Trail. In the fall, leaf-peeping in western Maryland rivals New England.

- Suburban Professional: Many Marylanders are commuters, with highways like I-270 and the Capital Beltway packed every weekday. Work-life here often revolves around careers in government contracting, federal agencies, or research labs.

- Cultural: Baltimore punches above its weight in music, art, and food. It's home to quirky traditions like the annual HonFest, while the nearby suburbs offer concert venues, museums, and some of the country's best public libraries.

- Education-Focused: With several nationally ranked school districts, plus colleges like UMD College Park, Loyola, and St. John’s in Annapolis, education drives many families’ choices.

The cost of living is high in the DC metro area—Montgomery County and Howard County are expensive but offer great schools and amenities. Meanwhile, Baltimore City and parts of the Eastern Shore remain relatively affordable, though income disparities can be stark.


**Who’s Moving to Maryland?**

- Government and Defense Professionals: With NSA, NIH, and countless government contractors, Maryland is a hub for federal careers.

- Healthcare and Biotech Workers: The state’s economy is built around giants like Johns Hopkins, the University of Maryland Medical System, and a growing biotech corridor around Gaithersburg and Rockville.

- Families: Strong school systems, safe suburbs, and access to both urban and rural life make it a prime target for families.

- Nature and Water Lovers: The Bay, mountains, and access to the Atlantic draw people who don’t want to choose between city life and nature.


**Worklife**

Maryland boasts some of the highest median incomes in the country, but it comes with a cost. Key industries include:

- Government, Defense, and Cybersecurity (Fort Meade, NSA, countless Beltway contractors)

- Healthcare and Life Sciences (Johns Hopkins, NIH, biotech firms in the I-270 corridor)

- Port and Shipping (Baltimore’s port is one of the busiest on the East Coast)

- Education (Universities, research centers, and public school systems)

Maryland’s job market tends to be resilient especially near D.C.—especially in recession-proof industries like healthcare, science, and in prior administrations, federal government work. High wages can offset higher living costs, particularly in areas like Montgomery County.


**Why Move Here Now?**

Baltimore is changing -- neighborhood revitalization, a growing arts scene, and affordable historic homes make it a city to invest in. The DMV’s tech and biotech boom means Maryland’s share of the tech and life sciences boom is growing fast, especially in Montgomery County and the suburbs along I-270.

Waterfront and small-town charm aplenty, with coastal towns offering an escape that feels worlds away from DC but still within reach for weekends or remote work. Finally, access without total commitment: Maryland lets you plug into DC’s energy, Baltimore’s grit, or nature’s calm—all without fully committing to just one lifestyle.


Maryland

Washington is not what most people around the country think if their view is based solely on the Emerald City. You’ve got Seattle, yes — the tech hub with glassy towers, expensive lattes, and endless cranes reshaping the skyline. But Washington’s story is bigger and weirder than that.

Head east and you hit the Cascades, where towns like Leavenworth lean hard into their Bavarian cosplay — full-on Alpine architecture and Christmas markets, even in summer. Cross those mountains and the state turns dry, golden, and wide open — apple orchards, hops fields, and wine country roll through the Yakima Valley and Walla Walla. It’s a different state over there, one that cares more about rodeos and crop yields than whatever Seattle’s latest zoning fight is about.

There’s also the pocket-sized, artsy cities people don’t talk about enough — Bellingham, tucked up near the Canadian border with its crunchy, outdoorsy vibe and a local ski hill just 30 minutes up the road; Olympia, the capital, where the punk music scene still has a pulse and the farmers market is the real social center; and Port Townsend, a Victorian seaport town known for wooden boat festivals and a whole lot of ghost stories.

What keeps people here is the geography — Puget Sound, the Olympics, Mount Rainier looming massive. There’s a certain stubborn pride about how many people own a kayak and know how to dig their clams. You don’t have to go far to find someone who will try to convince you their corner of Washington is the best — whether that’s a foggy coastal town, a moss-draped mountain pass, or a sunny plateau east of the mountains. And honestly, they’re all kind of right.



**Lifestyle** 

Living here means you learn to live with the weather — or love it. Western Washington’s gray season lasts months, but the long, golden summer days make up for it. The east side flips the script — hot, dry summers and winters that mean snow.

People are big on the outdoors, but not in a performative way. It's less Instagram hiking and more “this is just what we do.” Mountain biking in the Cascades, skiing at Stevens Pass, trail running in the Issaquah Alps, or mushroom hunting when the rains come — the connection to nature runs deep.

Sustainability isn’t a buzzword here — it’s baked in. You’ll see people line up to return compost buckets at the farmers market or debate which salmon run needs protecting. There’s a hyper-local food scene, from oyster farms like Hama Hama to foraged nettles making their way into restaurant menus.

Housing is a mixed bag. Seattle and the Eastside (Bellevue, Redmond, Kirkland) are expensive, with median home prices well above $900k. But smaller cities like Spokane or the Tri-Cities offer more space and sunshine without completely unplugging you from the economy.



**Who’s Moving to Colorado?**

- Tech folks chasing jobs at Amazon, Microsoft, and the sprawl of startups. The Eastside suburbs — Bellevue, Kirkland, Sammamish — are full of transplants figuring out the PNW way.

- Families looking for good schools, parks, and the rare suburban neighborhood where you can still walk to a coffee shop (Issaquah and North Bend, looking at you).

- Outdoor types — climbers, paddlers, skiers — folks who want a job and mountains in their backyard. Bellingham and Wenatchee both punch above their weight for this crowd.

- Healthcare and education workers — UW, WSU, major hospital systems, and growing biotech hubs keep the state anchored beyond tech.

- And increasingly, people just looking for a lifestyle shift — artists, remote workers, folks burned out on California or Texas sprawl — are finding their way here.



**Worklife**

The job market stays solid, especially if you’re in:

- Tech: Seattle’s core, Bellevue’s new skyscrapers, and a growing remote scene

- Aerospace: Boeing’s still big, even if quieter than it once was

- Healthcare: especially in Seattle and Spokane

- Agriculture: apples, cherries, hops, and wine rule Eastern Washington

- Shipping and trade: major ports in Seattle and Tacoma keep global goods moving

The interesting thing is how the economy balances — world-class tech and scrappy farming towns coexist, sometimes uneasily, but it works.



**Why Move Here Now?**

Washington’s still growing, but in ways that give you choices. Yes, Seattle’s pricey, but places like Spokane, Bellingham, and even Bremerton are growing fast without feeling like polished suburbs yet. The access to nature is unbeatable, but what might surprise people is how distinct each region feels.
You could live where you’re skiing before work, or where you’re sipping wine on your porch at sunset. You could be downtown for an Amazon meeting or out in the San Juans watching orcas. Washington has range — that’s the real sell.


Statewide incentive programs in Georgia

Georgia Center of Innovation

Georgia Dream Homeownership Incentive Program

Georgia Quick Start Workforce Incentive Program

REBA Georgia Incentive Program

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