More than 3,300 remote workers relocate to Tulsa for $10,000 incentive
- The Tulsa Remote program began in 2018 to address economic challenges following the decline of the oil and gas sectors.
- Data demonstrates that program participants save substantial amounts on housing costs and contribute significantly to local tax revenues.
- The initiative has sparked community engagement and cooperation, leading to new ideas for local development and proving beneficial for Tulsa's economic revitalization.
In the United States, Tulsa Remote launched in 2018 to attract knowledge workers and combat the economic downturn caused by the decline of the oil and gas industries. Recent data from Harvard Business School highlights that participants in the program have significantly reduced their housing costs, averaging savings of $25,000 a year compared to their peers who did not relocate. This shift not only helps the workers but also generates substantial tax revenue for the city, boosting its economy. Between 2018 and 2021, migrants contributed $14.9 million in annual tax income and $5.8 million in sales taxes, demonstrating the positive impact on local finances. Furthermore, involving these remote workers in community activities has fostered collaboration between locals and newcomers, generating innovative ideas for local development. The number of participants has greatly expanded since the pandemic, currently ranging from 30 to 70 individuals per month, highlighting a growing interest in relocating to Tulsa. Despite concerns about gentrification, it is noted that only 500 participants have purchased homes in the area, and the program's long-term future is under review, with officials acknowledging the need for adaptation to the changing dynamics of the city.