Make Your Move to Jacksonville: A Smart Choice for Career Growth, Community and Quality of Life

The search for an affordable, fulfilling place to live has never been more urgent. As costs rise nationwide, professionals and families are looking for locations where they can succeed without breaking the bank.

The Jacksonville region in Illinois is answering that call with a second round of its highly successful Make My Move campaign, offering incentives worth $9,000 to attract the right talent. But beyond the financial perks and cost savings, Jacksonville delivers something even more valuable: a high quality of life, career advancement opportunities and a welcoming, close-knit community.

Why Jacksonville? It’s a Lifestyle Upgrade

Jacksonville offers a rare combination of affordability, professional opportunities and an unmatched sense of belonging. The cost of living is 27% lower than the national average and 22% lower than the Illinois average. This difference in cost of living allows potential and current residents to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without financial strain.

Whether you’re a remote worker or looking to take advantage of the region’s strong manufacturing, healthcare, engineering, legal or accounting industry opportunities, Jacksonville has room for you to grow.

New residents who participate in the Make My Move program will receive $5,000 in cash and an additional $4,000 in local perks, including real estate and school tours, three months of high-speed internet, rounds of golf, kayak rentals, fitness memberships and gift certificates to popular local businesses.

“This initiative has already demonstrated its value by bringing in talented professionals from across the country who have made Jacksonville their home,” says Kristin Jamison, President of Jacksonville Regional Economic Development Corporation. “The first round resulted in five new residents with different backgrounds and careers who have become active community members. Now, we’re looking for the next group of professionals ready to call Jacksonville home.”

Real Stories, Real Success: Jacksonville’s Newest Residents From the First Campaign

The proof is in those who have already moved to the region from the first Make My Move campaign. From a semiconductor specialist from Salt Lake City to a molecular biologist from San Diego, Jacksonville’s newcomers find that small-town living doesn’t mean small-time opportunities. Meet the five people who were part of the first Make My Move campaign and what called them to move here.

• Cade Liehr, a mechanical engineer at Reynolds Consumer Products, was drawn to Jacksonville’s career growth and affordability balance.
• Elena Chrysostomou, a seasoned scientist, found Jacksonville’s welcoming atmosphere and professional opportunities a perfect fit.
• Emma Reuschel, returning after years in Philadelphia, enjoys being near family while working as a senior scientist.
• Lance Perkins, a branding and marketing professional, is taking advantage of Jacksonville’s historic charm to renovate a home.
• Nathan Reed, a semiconductor expert, appreciates the community and career potential Jacksonville offers.

These success stories challenge the misconception that small-town life means limited career growth. Jacksonville has several major employers with at least 500 employees, as well as resources for entrepreneurs and remote workers looking for a strong, supportive network.

A Community That Feels Like Home

Living in Jacksonville makes you feel like you belong. The region hosts free live music in historic downtown, family-friendly festivals and cultural events like the Beaux Arts Ball and the Art Association of Jacksonville’s Lawn Party. Outdoor lovers can enjoy four golf courses, a 500-acre lake and parks perfect for hiking, biking and kayaking.

Jacksonville’s educational system is a significant draw for those raising families. The region is home to Illinois College, Lincoln Land Community College and John Wood Community College, which provide strong academic foundations and workforce training programs to help you level up your career.

Make Your Move Today

If you’re looking for career advancement, lower costs and a true sense of community, Jacksonville, Illinois, is ready to welcome you. With a strong economy, rich cultural experiences and a support system designed to help new residents succeed, there has never been a better time to make the move.

Are you ready to take the next step? Apply today for Jacksonville’s Make My Move program and start your new chapter in a place where opportunity meets affordability.