This historic Mississippi city will pay you to move there

The city of Natchez in Mississippi is hoping to attract new residents by paying them to move there. Through an incentive program dubbed Shift South, remote workers can be paid up to $6000 if they make the big move.

Sitting on the bluffs of the Mississippi River, Natchez is the latest city to launch an incentive program to grow its community. Up to 30 slots are available on the Shift South program and will be offered to remote workers. To be eligible, new residents must purchase a home worth at least $150,000 and commit to living in Natchez for at least a year. In return, they'll receive an upfront payment of $2500 to help with relocation costs, and then $300 a month for 12 months.

Young man, athletic and fit, rides his road bike on the sunny day, Natchez, Mississippi, USA — There's an abundance of scenic recreational spots including the Natchez Trace Parkway ©Michael Hanson/Getty Images

Those looking to escape the grind of expensive cities may be enticed by its low cost of living. According to America's Most Liveable Towns and Villages, Natchez cost of living index is below average. A typical home here costs about $100,000 compared to the national average of $214,80.

10 delightful detours along the Natchez Trace Parkway

Natchez is the oldest city along the Mississippi River (beating New Orleans by two years), and historic sites like Forks of the Road, which highlights the area's African-American history, St Mary's Basilica, Natchez National Historical Park and Grand Village of the Natchez Indians attract thousands of visitors each year. It's known for being one of the more diverse and inclusive cities in the state, despite its dark plantation and antebellum past.

Shops in Main Street, Natchez, Mississippi, USA — Shops, traditional balcony and parked autos in Main Street, Downtown Natchez, Mississippi USA ©Tim Graham/Getty Images

It's filled with lovely views too, surrounded by lakes, woodlands and wildlife, with an abundance of great places to hike and bike, especially along the scenic Natchez Trace Parkway. In recent years its downtown has enjoyed a revival with new businesses setting up shop, including cafes, restaurants, wine bars and pastry shops. At the weekends, its beer halls are filled with the sounds of live music, particularly blues. And one of its most popular bars, Under the Hill Saloon, comes with a shot of literary history: it was once a favorite haunt of Samuel Clemens, a.k.a. Mark Twain.

You can find more information on the Shift South program here.