In Search of a Better Life for Your Children? 11 of the Best Communities to Raise a Family for Remote Workers
By Natalia Wolting • Nov 17, 2024
Are you considering moving to a family-friendly community? Whether you're a remote worker seeking a better quality of life or simply looking for a place where your children can thrive, these 11 communities offer the perfect blend of affordability, excellent schools and an abundance of family-friendly amenities.
1. Richmond, Indiana
Median Home Price:$160,000
School System: Richmond Community Schools
MakeMyMove Incentive: Up to $7,500
Richmond exemplifies small-town charm with a close-knit community feel. The community's school district maintains a student-to-teacher ratio of 14:1 and a 95% graduation rate. The town features Hayes Arboretum and Glen Miller Park for outdoor recreation. Sports enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy in Richmond. Indiana University East and Earlham College offer collegiate sports, while Richmond High School boasts a state-of-the-art athletic facility. Families can also enjoy a show at the Richmond Civic Theater.
2. Mayfield/Graves County Kentucky
Median Home Price:$200,000
School Systems: Mayfield Independent School District and Graves County Schools
MakeMyMove Incentive: Up to $8,800
Known for its festivals, football championships and welcoming atmosphere, Mayfield and Graves County have been home to generations of families. The community hosts the Haunted Graves Festival, a month-long celebration of family-friendly activities while the Rotary Club supports local initiatives, including scholarships for students. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hunting and fishing, while food lovers can savor delicious BBQ and explore traditional delicacies carried in local shops. Beyond its attractions and activities, Mayfield and Graves County offers a strong sense of community. Residents are known for their kindness and support, creating a welcoming environment for all.
3. Abilene, Texas
Median Home Price:$250,000
School System: Abilene ISD
MakeMyMove Incentive: Up to $5,550 for nurses and $550 for Movers who join the local workforce
Located in the heart of the Lone Star State, Abilene is the perfect community for families. With its expansive skies, rolling landscapes and a blend of modern amenities and Western charm - Abilene provides a delightful living experience. The city's diverse array of recreational opportunities, including the engaging Frontier Texas! Museum and the scenic Abilene State Park cater to all interests. Abilene's reasonable cost of living and excellent educational institutions, such as Abilene Christian University and Hardin-Simmons University, make it an attractive destination for families and students alike. The friendly community actively participates in local events, fostering a strong sense of belonging. Abilene offers a compelling mix of small-town charm and modern conveniences, making it an ideal place to call home.
4. Bloomfield, Iowa
Median Home Price: $205,000
School System: Davis County CSD
MakeMyMove Incentive: Up to $10,000
Situated 100 miles from Des Moines along the Missouri border, Davis County offers a unique blend of rural living and economic opportunity. Davis County proudly hosts Iowa's largest Amish community, centered in the Drakesville and West Grove areas west of Bloomfield. The area's cultural tapestry is further enriched by events like the beloved Country & Old Time Music Festival, which draws visitors from across the Midwest. In addition, families will enjoy the county’s hiking and nature trails, family-friendly campgrounds and peaceful lakeside recreation. The region is also welcoming families with an attractive $10,000 tax abatement for those building new homes.
Meet the Community
5. Henry County, Indiana
Median Home Price:$195,900
School Systems: Blue River Valley Schools, New Castle Community Schools and South Henry School Corporation
MakeMyMove Incentive: Up to $7,800
Henry County is more than just a place to live; it’s a community where work and play intertwine, where traditions are honored and where your neighbors quickly become friends. Henry County’s commitment to education shines through its innovative school programs—just look at Shenandoah High School's cutting-edge esports team as an example of its schools embrace both tradition and progress. With state parks, vibrant art associations, regular concerts, seasonal festivals, county fairs and a growing selection of wineries and breweries – there’s always a way for families to stay active and engaged.
6. Noblesville, Indiana
Median Home Price:$409,450
School System: Noblesville Schools
MakeMyMove Incentive: Up to $15,000
Noblesville offers an ideal blend of suburban comfort and urban convenience. The historic downtown square serves as the heart of the community, while modern developments provide all the amenities of city living. Through an innovative partnership with Noblesville Creates, the downtown alleys have been transformed into Instagram-worthy spaces featuring vibrant murals, outdoor dining areas and endless photo opportunities. The city also provides families with diverse housing options to fit every lifestyle and budget in addition to top-rated schools and healthcare facilities.
7. Morgantown, West Virginia
Median Home Price:$329,000
School System: Monongalia County Schools
MakeMyMove Incentive: Up to $20,000
Home to West Virginia University, Morgantown combines outdoor recreation with educational opportunities. The city's rail-trail system offers 48 miles of safe biking and walking paths. The school district maintains strong academic performance with a 95% graduation rate. The presence of the university provides access to cultural events, sports programs and educational resources for families.
8. Connersville, Indiana
Median Home Price:$169,900
School System: Fayette County School Corporation
MakeMyMove Incentive: Up to $6,300
Connersville welcomes new residents seeking an authentic small-town experience without sacrificing modern conveniences. Located along the scenic Whitewater River in eastern Indiana, the community of approximately 13,000 residents takes pride in their manufacturing heritage while embracing a bright future. Tree-lined streets, historic architecture and welcoming neighborhoods create an atmosphere that immediately feels like home. Families will enjoy a busy social calendar including First Friday events downtown, summer movie nights and the historic canal days.
9. Owensboro, Kentucky
Median Home Price:$259,500
School Systems: Owensboro Public Schools and Daviess County Public Schools
MakeMyMove Incentive: Up to $6,800
Owensboro’s commitment to education, culture and quality of life creates an environment where children can thrive and families can build lasting connections. This charming river city provides endless recreational opportunities including Yellow Creek Park and the expanded Greenbelt walking and biking trail system. The combination of affordable living, excellent schools and a strong sense of community makes Owensboro particularly attractive to families looking for a safe, engaging environment to call home.
Meet the Community
10. Clinton County, Indiana
Median Home Price:$239,000
School Systems: Community Schools of Frankfort, Clinton Central School Corporation and Clinton Prairie School Corporation
MakeMyMove Incentive: Up to $5,500
Clinton County combines the best aspects of small-town living with modern amenities and opportunities. The county's strategic location allows families to enjoy the benefits of rural living while maintaining easy access to larger cities like Lafayette and Indianapolis. The county’s strong school systems include access to STEM and vocational programs and multiple AP and dual credit opportunities. Families will feel safe with the low crime rate across the county and can participate in family-friendly events and festivals throughout the year.
11. Neodesha, Kansas
Median Home Price:$137,500
School System: Neodesha Unified School District
MakeMyMove Incentive: Up to $6,800
The 2,400 residents of Neodesha, Kansas are excited to welcome new families to their vibrant community. The Neodesha Early Learning Center provides high-quality daycare and education for children from 2 weeks to 4 years old. Neodesha takes great pride in its excellent public school system and offers the Promise Scholarship program, which covers tuition for eligible students attending technical schools or colleges within the state of Kansas. Residents of Neodesha have access to top-notch medical care at the Wilson Medical Center. To further enhance the quality of life in Neodesha, it’s adding 100 new homes and offering tax cuts for neighborhood improvements.
How To Pick the Right Community
When considering these locations, remember to:
Research specific neighborhoods within each community.
Contact local real estate agents who can help guide you through the home-buying process.
Plan visits during different seasons if possible.
Connect with other remote workers in your selected communities who have relocated there.
Review the incentive requirements of each community.
These 11 communities offer a variety of benefits for families, including affordable housing, excellent schools, outdoor recreation and community support. Whether you're looking for a small-town feel or a suburban vibe, you're sure to find the perfect home for your family in one of these communities.
About MakeMyMove
Remote work has freed millions of Americans to live where they want, and many are making the move to places that better match their lifestyle. In turn, cities and towns across the country are offering incentives like cash, perks and programming to remote workers who move and work from their communities. At MakeMyMove, you can explore all the places, get personalized help to find the one that’s right for you, connect with locals, and access support to make your move a piece of cake.
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