Talk about an offer people can’t refuse.
At least that’s what the town of Cumberland, Maryland is banking on.
According to a FOX Business report, the rural Maryland town is offering an incentive to attract families to live inside its city limits.
“The package, offering up to $20,000, is comprised of $10,000 in relocation cash, PLUS up to $10,000, dollar-for-dollar match, for approved renovations on an existing home, OR for a down payment on a newly constructed home within City limits,” the Cumberland town website advertises.
According to the report, there are limitations for applicants.
To be eligible, applicants must be at least 18 years of age, be eligible to work in the U.S. with full-time employment, existing local employment, proof of self-employment — or be in the process of accepting a job in the area.
They must purchase a home and live in it as their primary residence for no less than 5 years.
And if a newly constructed home is purchased, the value must not be less than $150,000.
However, Cumberland officials are banking on its touted “location, lifestyle, and value” of the town to attract new residents.
“Cumberland’s history is built around a location in close proximity to Pittsburgh, D.C., and Baltimore,” it also says.
The town is located on the Potomac River in Allegany County and is just two hours from Baltimore.
Allegany County, also known as the Mountainside of Maryland, comprises 70,000 acres of nature for outdoor adventure.
“With 95% broadband connectivity, plus interstate highway and rail access, 19,000 Cumberland residents can choose their own lifestyle. The downtown is retooled for modern use,” it added.
In 2022, the town had a population of 18,769 residents, dropping 12% since 2020, according to city data.
“Cumberland has a strong and growing sense of place, big enough to provide services and infrastructure, small enough that everyone matters.”
The town website touts its walkable neighborhoods and “professional around-the-clock” fire, police and emergency services.