How to Move with No Savings: A Complete Guide to Starting Over

Feeling trapped in a place that's draining your mental and financial health is an incredibly difficult experience. The desire for a fresh start can be overwhelming, but the reality of having no savings can make it feel impossible. However, it's important to remember that feeling stuck doesn't mean you're out of options. With careful planning and the right resources, relocating to a new city for a better life is achievable, even on a tight budget.

This guide is designed to provide a practical, step-by-step framework for anyone looking to make a change without a financial safety net. We will explore government assistance programs, cities that offer relocation incentives, and strategies for managing your mental health during this challenging but rewarding journey.

Section 1: Calculating Your Bare-Minimum Move Budget

The first step is to determine the absolute minimum amount of money you need to make the move. This isn't about comfort; it's about survival for the first month. Your budget should focus on three core areas:

Transportation

Estimated Cost: Varies

The cost of getting you and your essential belongings to the new city. This could be a one-way bus ticket, gas for your car, or a budget airline flight. Research the most affordable option well in advance. Consider Greyhound, Megabus, or budget airlines like Spirit or Frontier.

Housing Deposit & First Month's Rent

Estimated Cost: Varies by city

This is the most significant upfront cost and will vary dramatically by city. Research average rents for a room or studio apartment in your target cities. Look for options that may not require a full security deposit, such as renting a room in a shared house or using services like Airbnb for the first month while you search for permanent housing.

Essential Items

Estimated Cost: $200 - $400

Food, toiletries, and any critical household items for the first two weeks. This is a bare-bones budget that assumes you are bringing essential items with you and will purchase more as you get your first paycheck.

Creating a detailed, line-item budget is crucial. This will give you a concrete savings goal, even if it feels distant. Every dollar saved is a step closer to your goal.

Section 2: Government and Non-Profit Assistance Programs

Several government and non-profit programs are designed to help low-income individuals and families with housing and relocation. While these programs often have waiting lists and specific eligibility requirements, they are worth exploring.

Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8)

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) oversees the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program, commonly known as Section 8. This program provides rental assistance to low-income families, the elderly, and disabled individuals by paying a subsidy directly to the landlord.

A key feature of the HCV program is portability, which allows you to take your voucher with you to any community in the United States. This can be a powerful tool for relocation, but it's important to note that your ability to move with your voucher depends on factors like how long you've had assistance and where you lived when you applied. [1]

It is crucial to understand that the HCV program is not a cash relocation grant. It assists with ongoing rent, not the initial costs of moving. To learn more and apply, you must contact your local Public Housing Agency (PHA). You can find your local PHA through HUD's Public Housing Agency Directory.

2-1-1 Resource Directory

Operated by the United Way, 2-1-1 is a free, confidential, 24/7 information and referral service that can connect you to essential local resources. By dialing 2-1-1 or visiting their website at 211.org, you can find information on a wide range of services, including:

•Housing and utility assistance

•Food banks

•Mental health services

•Crisis support

•Emergency financial assistance

According to their official site, 2-1-1 is the most comprehensive source of information about local resources and services in the country, using a database of verified resources to connect people with the help they need. [2]

When you call, explain your situation and ask specifically about any available relocation or moving assistance grants in your area or the area you plan to move to.

Other Potential Resources

•The Salvation Army: Many local branches offer emergency financial assistance, which may sometimes cover moving-related costs. Services vary significantly by location. Contact your local branch to inquire about available programs.

•YWCA: Provides support for women and families in crisis, which can include housing and relocation assistance. Check with your local chapter for specific services.

Section 3: Cities and States That Will Pay You to Move

In an effort to attract new residents and remote workers, a growing number of cities and states are offering financial incentives to relocate. These programs are competitive, but they represent a real opportunity for those who qualify. Here are verified examples:

Ascend West Virginia

Incentive: $12,000 cash paid over two years, plus free outdoor recreation package (total value over $20,000)

Key Requirements:

•Must be a full-time remote worker for a company based outside West Virginia, or be self-employed outside the state

•Must be a U.S. citizen or green card holder

•Must be at least 18 years old

•Must be able to relocate within 6 months of acceptance

•Must live in a designated community for at least two years

Eligible Communities: Morgantown Area, Greenbrier Valley, Eastern Panhandle, Greater Elkins, New River Gorge

Additional Benefits: Free outdoor gear rentals, access to curated outdoor adventures

Learn More: ascendwv.com [3]

Tulsa Remote (Oklahoma)

Incentive: $10,000 grant plus 3-year free co-working membership

Key Requirements:

•Must be at least 18 years old

•Authorized to work in the United States

•Currently have full-time remote employment outside of Oklahoma

•Can relocate to Tulsa within 12 months of approval

•Have lived outside Oklahoma for one full year before applying

Additional Benefits: Wellness resources through Benepass platform, monthly community events, hosted visit to explore city before moving

Payment Options: Monthly disbursements for renters, or lump sum option for homebuyers

Learn More: tulsaremote.com [4]

Other Programs to Research

While we have verified the programs above, there are additional relocation incentive programs that may be worth exploring. Always visit the official program website to verify current details:

•Choose Topeka (Kansas) - Reported incentives up to $15,000

•Buying Into Baltimore (Maryland) - Down payment assistance programs

•Hamilton, Ohio - Talent attraction programs for recent graduates

•Choose Ketchikan (Alaska) - Incentives for remote workers

•Newton Housing Initiative (Iowa) - Cash incentives for home purchases

Important Disclaimer: Program details, incentive amounts, and eligibility requirements are subject to change. Some programs may have limited spots or specific application windows. Always visit the official program website for the most current information before making any decisions.

Section 4: Finding Remote Work and Relocation-Friendly Employment

If you don't currently have remote work, securing employment that allows location flexibility is crucial. Here are some strategies:

Remote Job Boards

•FlexJobs - Curated remote and flexible job listings

•We Work Remotely - Remote jobs in tech, marketing, and more

•Remote.co - Remote job listings and resources

•Indeed and LinkedIn - Filter by "remote" in job searches

Companies Known for Relocation Assistance

Some companies offer relocation packages even for entry-level positions. Research companies in your field that are known for supporting employee moves.

Temporary and Gig Work

For immediate income in your new city:

•Temp agencies - Quick placement in short-term roles

•Gig economy - Uber, DoorDash, TaskRabbit for flexible income

•Seasonal work - Many industries hire seasonally with immediate start dates

Section 5: Mental Health and Well-Being During Your Transition

Relocating with no savings is incredibly stressful. It is vital to prioritize your mental health throughout this process.

Acknowledge Your Feelings

It's okay to feel overwhelmed, scared, or anxious. Your feelings are valid. The stress of planning a major life change while facing financial constraints is real and significant.

Focus on What You Can Control

You can control your research, your budget, and your daily savings habits. Focus on small, achievable steps rather than the overwhelming big picture. Each action you take is progress.

Connect with Support Systems

•Talk to trusted friends or family members about what you're going through

•Call 2-1-1 to connect with free or low-cost mental health counseling in your area

•Consider online therapy options like BetterHelp or Talkspace if you have internet access

Celebrate Small Wins

Every dollar saved, every application submitted, every piece of research completed is a victory. Acknowledge your progress, no matter how small it seems.

Remember Your "Why"

When the process feels too difficult, remind yourself why you're doing this. Whether it's for your mental health, career opportunities, or a better quality of life, keeping your motivation front and center will help you push through the hard days.

Section 6: Creating Your Action Plan

Now that you understand the resources available, it's time to create a concrete action plan.

Month 1: Research and Preparation

1.Research 3-5 potential cities based on cost of living and job opportunities

2.Calculate your bare-minimum move budget

3.Apply for Housing Choice Voucher (if eligible) - note that waiting lists can be long

4.Call 2-1-1 to identify local resources

5.Begin saving aggressively - even $5-10 per week adds up

Month 2-3: Applications and Job Search

1.Apply to verified relocation incentive programs (Ascend WV, Tulsa Remote, etc.)

2.Begin remote job search or secure location-flexible employment

3.Continue saving

4.Research housing options in target cities

5.Connect with online communities in your target cities

Month 4-6: Final Preparations

1.Secure employment or remote work arrangement

2.Finalize target city based on job opportunities and resources

3.Save for transportation and first month's expenses

4.Arrange temporary housing (if needed)

5.Plan logistics of the move

Moving Week

1.Execute your move with your saved funds

2.Check in with local 2-1-1 for immediate resources

3.Focus on securing stable housing

4.Begin work or continue job search

5.Connect with local community resources

Conclusion: Your Fresh Start is Possible

Moving with no savings is a monumental challenge, but it is not an insurmountable one. By leveraging the resources outlined in this guide, creating a meticulous plan, and prioritizing your mental health, you can make a fresh start in a new city.

From the portability of HUD's Housing Choice Vouchers to the direct financial incentives of programs like Ascend West Virginia and Tulsa Remote, there are paths forward. The key is to be patient, persistent, and willing to seek help.

This journey requires courage, resilience, and a willingness to ask for support. Remember that you are not starting from nothing—you are starting from experience, determination, and the knowledge that you deserve a better situation.

Need More Help?

Every relocation situation is unique, and you may have specific questions or need guidance tailored to your circumstances. If you're planning a move and need help finding resources, understanding program eligibility, or navigating your options, we're here to help.

Email us at Resources@cityshiftifnance.com with your questions or situation, and we'll do our best to point you toward additional resources and information that might be helpful for your specific needs. We're committed to providing free, helpful guidance to anyone looking to make a positive change in their life.

All guidance provided is informational only and free of charge. We're here to help you find the resources you need.