Imagine pulling up to a fresh-cut lawn, kids running around under big open skies, and you realizing: you own the land. There’s no hefty mortgage for the lot. Just you, your future home, and possibility.

For many parents, that dream seems impossible. But the truth is: there are legit programs in the United States offering land for free (or nearly so) — if you’re willing to roll up your sleeves.

Below are a few opportunities to consider, what requirements come attached, what to watch out for, and whether one might make sense for your family.

A Quick History of “Free Land” in America

Okay first, a quick history lesson.

Back in 1862, the Homestead Act of 1862 opened up 160 acres of public land to U.S. citizens. You simply had to live there, improve it, and farm it for five years.

Daniel Freeman became the first person to file a claim under the Homestead Act on January 1 1863 in Gage County, Nebraska. According to the archives, he had convinced the land office clerk to open just after midnight so he could file his claim, and later built a home, farmed the land, and proved up his claim.

Fast forward to today, the spirt lives on (even though the federal program shut down) in small towns and counties across the United States, as they use similar ideas to attract new residents or spark growth.

Small-Town & Relocation Incentive Programs

If you’ve ever dreamed of trading noisy neighbors for wide-open space and a yard big enough for a trampoline, free-land programs might be your family’s secret weapon.

Small towns across the Midwest still use them to attract new residents, especially remote-working parents looking for affordable roots and a slower pace of life.

These are genuine community programs that come with clear terms: you’ll usually need to build a home within one to two years and agree to live there full-time.

Here are three verified places (as of the time of this writing) offering real opportunities right now:

Mankato, Kansas

The City of Mankato is offering 26 free lots in its Johnson Addition neighborhood for families willing to build new single-family homes.

Paved streets, nearby schools, and existing utilities make this one of the most turnkey free-lot options in the country.

Requirements: begin construction within six months and complete within 24.

Elwood, Nebraska

Elwood offers free residential lots (110′ × 115′) with paved streets, utilities, and a refundable $500 deposit returned after construction.

The village also reimburses up to 10 % of construction costs (capped at $25,000) for qualifying builds.

Requirements: build a single-family home and make it your primary residence.

Claremont, Minnesota

Through its Empty Lot Program, Claremont offers residential lots at no cost or reduced fees based on household income (up to about $129K for families of three or more).

Small-town vibe, short commute to Rochester MN, and active local schools make it appealing for young families.

The program has seen limited uptake but remains listed on the city’s website—so call before you plan a move.

How to Apply (and What to Watch For)

Here are a few quick tips to consider when applying for one of these programs.

Check deadlines. Some programs require construction to start within six months.
Ask about infrastructure. Confirm water, power, and internet are ready to connect.
Confirm fine print. Many programs have home-size minimums or limit mobile/manufactured housing.
Visit before committing. Spend a week or two there. Talk to locals, check schools, test the commute.

If you or your partner work remotely, towns like these can turn a typical mortgage payment into full ownership. With lower property taxes and more space for kids (and maybe chickens), your monthly budget goes further.

State and County Incentive Programs

Not all “free land” comes directly from small towns. There are quite a few states and counties which offer larger incentive programs aimed at attracting families, remote workers, and small business owners.

These programs aren’t always literal land giveaways, but they can include cash grants, tax breaks, or deeply discounted property that make relocating (and building a new life) surprisingly affordable.

For families willing to move or work remotely, these opportunities can feel like a modern spin on the old Homestead dream, helping communities grow while giving you a serious financial leg up.

Here are a few worth knowing about:

Alaska

While Alaska’s Homestead Land Program officially ended in 1986, the state still rewards residents with annual payouts through the Alaska Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD)—a yearly check for anyone who’s lived there full-time for at least one calendar year.

In 2025, the payout was $1,000 per eligible resident, which means a family of four could receive $4,000 just for living there.
It’s not “free land,” but it’s one of the few programs where the state pays you to stay.
Rural areas still have low-cost land sales managed by the Alaska Department of Natural Resources.

To note, while beautiful, Alaska isn’t for everyone. There are notoriously long winters, remote living, and limited amenities. But if your family loves adventure and outdoor life, it’s one of the few places that literally puts money back in your pocket every year.

Kansas

Kansas is one of the most active states when it comes to population growth incentives.

Several counties have layered “free land” programs with cash relocation grants or student loan assistance to make rural living more appealing.

The Rural Opportunity Zones Program offers up to $15,000 in student loan repayment plus a five-year state income tax waiver for individuals moving to designated counties.
Many of these counties overlap with small towns that also have free-lot programs (like Mankato and Lincoln).
Ideal for families where one or both parents have student debt and flexible jobs.

If you and your partner both have student loans, moving to a qualifying Kansas county could save your family tens of thousands—essentially turning your relocation into a wealth-building move.

Oklahoma

If you’re not quite ready for small-town living but like the idea of a fresh start, Oklahoma’s Tulsa Remote program is a great middle ground.

Offers $10,000 in cash (split between a relocation stipend and monthly payments) to remote workers willing to move to Tulsa and stay at least one year.
Includes access to free co-working space, community events, and a built-in network of professionals.
It’s one of the most successful remote work incentive programs in the country with over 2,500 participants since launch.

Tulsa has good schools, affordable homes, and an airport within 15 minutes, all great things to keep in mind for a potential move.

West Virginia

The Ascend West Virginia program offers up to $12,000 in cash, free outdoor recreation passes, and co-working space access to remote workers who relocate to one of the state’s scenic small cities like Morgantown or Lewisburg.

You’ll receive $10,000 your first year, $2,000 your second, and lots of outdoor perks.
Perfect for families who love hiking, skiing, and mountain life without sky-high housing prices.

For families who love nature but still need internet and community, Ascend WV offers the best of both worlds—remote work support and small-town charm.

Action Steps:

Before making a move, take the time to go through a few steps. It can save you quite a bit of headache (and money) in the long run.

Make a shortlist. Choose 2–3 states that match your climate and school preferences.
Confirm the fine print. Read local ordinances or call the county clerk before committing.
Run the math. Compare “cost of living + relocation incentive” to your current expenses. (You might be shocked at the gap.)
Test it. Visit for a week. Eat at the local diner. Check the internet speed.

These programs aren’t just relocation gimmicks, each location is genuinely trying to make rural life sustainable again. If you’re debt-heavy but flexible, a move like this can reset your financial future faster than any budget hack.

The Catch: Costs, Conditions & Hidden Work

By now, you’re probably thinking: Okay, this sounds amazing, but what’s the catch?

Great question.

Because “free land” isn’t exactly free.

These programs trade upfront affordability for longer-term commitment. You’ll save big on the land purchase, but you’ll invest in everything else, from construction to utilities to local life.

Here’s what to know before you pack the moving truck.

#1: You’ll Still Need to Build (and Budget for It)

In almost every program, the deal is this: the land’s free, but you’re required to build a home within 12 to 24 months.

That means coming up with construction financing using a construction-to-permanent loan, not a standard mortgage. Banks often want detailed blueprints, contractor bids, and proof you’ll actually live there.

If you’ve got equity in your current home, you might be able to roll it into a new build loan. Talk to your lender about “bridge” or “construction conversion” options before selling or moving.

#2: Infrastructure Is Rarely Included

Many lots sit on the edge of town, which means you may need to pay for utility hookups like water, sewer or septic, electricity, and sometimes even roads or driveways.

That can run anywhere from $5,000 to $30,000+, depending on how rural the area is. In other words, free dirt still needs a lot of work before it becomes home.

Always ask the city if the lot is “ready to build.” If they can’t confirm, budget extra for connections.

#3: You’ll Need to Stay Put

Most towns require you to live in your new home for a set number of years (typically 3–5) before selling. It’s simply part of the deal, they’re not giving away land to flippers or investors.

If your life’s in flux (new job, growing family, possible relocations), that kind of commitment can be tough. But for parents craving stability, that can actually be a benefit. It’ll give you a chance to put down roots with a great financial start.

For families with young kids, staying in one community for several years can be grounding. You’ll find your people faster in a town that’s investing in families like yours.

#4: Property Taxes & Local Costs Still Apply

Even if the land’s free, you’ll still owe property taxes every year, and those can vary widely by state. Some areas may also have local assessments (for things like school districts or infrastructure).

Call the county assessor before signing anything. Ask for the property’s estimated annual taxes per $1,000 of value. It’s a quick way to spot hidden costs before you commit.

#5: You’re the General Contractor (Whether You Like It or Not)

Building on free land often means doing more legwork yourself. You’ll coordinate contractors, permits, inspections, and utility connections.

If you’re handy or detail-oriented, that’s manageable. But if you’ve only ever bought existing homes, be ready for a learning curve.

Treat this like a side project with your partner and make sure to divide and conquer. One handles permits, the other manages builders. And yes, pack snacks for the site visits.

#6: “Free Land” Doesn’t Guarantee a Thriving Economy

Many of these towns are giving away land because their population and job opportunities are shrinking. Before you move, make sure there’s a realistic plan for work either remote or local.

If your income relies on local jobs, confirm what’s available nearby. Remote workers? Test your internet speed before you commit.

Free land programs can absolutely change your financial future—but they come with responsibility, patience, and a bit of sweat equity. Think of it as trading your rent payment for ownership and effort.

How to Decide if It’s Right for Your Family

Before you start packing boxes and dreaming of a backyard the size of a soccer field, take a pause. Getting free land is a big move financially, emotionally, and logistically. It’s not for everyone, and that’s okay.

The families who make it work go in with both eyes open and a clear plan.

Here’s how to figure out if it’s the right next step for you.

Step 1: Check Your Financial Readiness

First things first. Ask yourself:

Do you have savings or equity to fund construction and unexpected costs (utilities, materials, permits)?
Is your income stable enough to qualify for a construction loan?
Can you handle temporary housing while you build (like renting locally or staying with family)?

Before applying to any program, build a simple “land budget” spreadsheet. Include every cost: utilities, septic, driveway, survey, inspection, even moving trucks. Round up. Then round up again.

If the math still works, you’re in a great place to move forward.

Step 2: Be Honest About Your Lifestyle Needs

Life in a smaller town moves at a different pace. That’s part of the appeal…but it’s also an adjustment.

Fewer restaurants and shops (goodbye, fancy restuarants… hello, home-cooked dinners).
Limited school options, though often smaller class sizes.
Longer drives for groceries, pediatricians, and Target runs.

For many families, the trade-off is worth it. More time outside. Lower stress. A community that actually knows your kids’ names.

But it only works if that slower pace aligns with your family’s goals, not against them.

Step 3: Make Sure It Fits Your Career or Work Setup

The best candidates for free land programs are often remote workers, entrepreneurs, or families with transferable careers.

If you or your partner need to commute to a major city daily, the cost of gas and time may cancel out your savings.

On the other hand, if you can work from anywhere or start a side business locall, it could be life-changing.

Before you move, spend a week working remotely from your chosen town (Airbnb or local inn). It’s a low-stakes way to test internet speed, local culture, and amenities before committing.

Step 4: Evaluate the School and Community Fit

If you have kids, this might be the deciding factor. Research schools, parks, and after-school activities just as seriously as you would in a big city.

Call the school district office and ask about class sizes, extracurriculars, and after-school care.
Check if there’s childcare or preschool access nearby.
Look up community Facebook groups—they’re gold for getting a real sense of local life.

Use GreatSchools.org and local Reddit or Facebook threads for honest, unfiltered reviews from parents already living there.

The Bottom Line: Is Free Land in the US Worth It?

Free land in the US isn’t a myth, but it’s not a magic bullet either.

For families ready to put in some effort, it can be a smart and strategic path to homeownership, lower living costs, and long-term financial freedom.

The key is going in prepared: knowing what’s required, budgeting for real costs, and making sure the lifestyle fits your family’s rhythm.

For parents with remote jobs, flexible schedules, or a dream of more space and stability, these programs are a great way to start somewhere new with incentives.

If you want more creative ways to grow your family’s finances: from side hustles to investing and smart money system, check out the my free weekly newsletter. It’s built for parents who are ready to make their money work harder.

FAQ: How to Get Free Land in the US (2025 Update)

Yes—some towns and counties offer free or $1 residential lots to attract new residents.
Programs exist in places like Mankato, Kansas; Elwood, Nebraska; and Claremont, Minnesota.
Always confirm details with official city websites, as terms can change.
Most programs are open to anyone over 18 who commits to building a home and living there for several years.
Some have income limits or local employment requirements.
You’ll still pay for construction, utilities, property taxes, and permits. Many programs require you to build within 12–24 months and stay for 3–5 years.
Remote or rural living may also mean fewer job opportunities and amenities.
Verified programs currently exist in Kansas, Nebraska, and Minnesota, with additional incentives in Alaska, Oklahoma, and West Virginia for relocation or remote work.
Some Iowa and Colorado towns have smaller-scale offers.
Search using “City of [Town Name] + free land program” or visit official city and county development websites. Trusted sources include:
It depends on your goals.
If you’re looking for space, stability, and a lower cost of living (and you’re comfortable with small-town life), free land can be a game-changer.
But it takes planning, patience, and a clear understanding of the costs involved.

Final Thought

Owning land used to be part of the American dream.

Today, it’s still possible, you just have to know where to look.

With the right mix of research, financial readiness, and a little adventurous spirit, “free land in the US” might not just be a headline. It could be your family’s next chapter.

How to Get Free Land in the US (2025 Guide for Families)