Taking the Leap: Laurie's Journey to Fort Smith with MakeMyMove

For many remote workers, the idea of picking up and moving to a brand-new place can be daunting. The logistics, financial costs, and the uncertainty can often be enough to keep people from making a change. But for Laurie, an unexpected Google search and a leap of faith led her from Illinois to Fort Smith, Arkansas, with the help of the MakeMyMove program.

Laurie's move wasn’t the result of years of planning or a long-held dream. Instead, it came after a sudden realization that she needed a fresh start. "It's a funny story," Laurie said. "I had an argument with my soon-to-be ex-wife, decided I was getting divorced, went online and said, 'How can I move inexpensively?'" That simple search led her to MakeMyMove, an incentive-based program that encourages remote workers to relocate to cities looking for new residents.

Initially skeptical, Laurie found herself intrigued by the opportunity. "I thought, 'This has got to be a scam. There's no way this is real.' But then I started looking into it, and I applied. I figured, even if it is, I don’t have to take it if it turns out to be fake." After speaking with the program coordinator in Fort Smith, Laurie realized this was a legitimate opportunity. "I thought, 'Alright, let's do this.'" Just a month later, Laurie had packed up her life and moved to Arkansas.

Finding a New Home in Fort Smith

One of the major concerns for anyone relocating is finding housing, but Laurie found the process surprisingly easy. "I went online and found an area called Chaffee Crossing. It’s in a nice neighborhood with a lot of military personnel." The affordability and ease of securing a place shocked her. "They worked with me. I didn’t have to pay a deposit or anything. I got my first month free. So, for just $250 to turn on my electricity, I had an apartment. It was so smooth."

Laurie’s rapid transition was a mix of practicality and spontaneity. "From the time I started looking to actually moving, it was less than a month. I made the decision, got approved for the program in 30 minutes and just went for it."

A Community That Feels Like Home

Moving to a new city without visiting it first is a bold move, but for Laurie, it paid off. "I just took a leap of faith, and I love it. It’s so pretty down here." She quickly adapted to Fort Smith's lifestyle, appreciating the outdoor activities, the friendliness of the community and the lively downtown area. "I’ve been to some great local spots—cigar bars with live music, cool hangouts. And there’s so much to do outdoors. I kayak, bike and explore year-round."

Even though Laurie wasn’t initially looking for community connections through MakeMyMove, she has since become an advocate for the program. "Everyone I meet, I tell them about it. A couple of my coworkers are applying now. It’s just such a great opportunity."

Work-Life Balance in a New City

As a remote worker with a territory spanning from Pennsylvania to Minnesota, Laurie needed to be near an airport. "My company said as long as I’m within 45 minutes of an airport, I can live anywhere. Fort Smith has an airport, and there’s another one in northwest Arkansas. It worked perfectly."

The transition to working remotely from Fort Smith was seamless. "Getting internet set up was easy and I have everything I need. The move didn’t impact my work negatively at all. If anything, it’s improved my quality of life."

Another pleasant surprise was Fort Smith’s healthcare system. "I found a great primary care doctor just by Googling 'best doctor in the area,' and now he’s one of my best friends. He even helped me find a neurologist the same day, which is unheard of. Healthcare here has been super accessible."

The Unexpected Perks of Relocation

Beyond work and practicalities, Laurie has discovered new hobbies and interests in Fort Smith. "One of my favorite things is ghost hunting. My partner and I went to the national cemetery on Thanksgiving and used a ghost-hunting app. At one point, the app said 'Willie,' and the gravestone in front of us was Dr. William, someone. That was wild."

Laurie’s partner has also fallen in love with Fort Smith. "She came down to visit, and she was blown away by how pretty it is. She just moved down here. The community, the cleanliness, and the relaxed vibe—it’s such a contrast from where we were before."

What’s Next?

While Laurie has embraced her new home, she considers herself somewhat of a digital nomad and sees this move as part of a bigger journey. "I probably won’t stay here forever. My partner’s family is in Oregon, so we might look at moving there next. I love Arkansas, but I have ADHD—I get bored easily!"

Laurie’s experience highlights how remote workers can take advantage of relocation incentive programs to transform their lives. "I didn’t plan this move at all. It just happened, and it turned out to be one of the best decisions I’ve made."

For remote workers considering a move, Laurie has one piece of advice: "Just go for it. If you have flexibility and the opportunity - why not take the leap? It might just change your life."