Eastern Kentucky is experiencing a new wave of growth and opportunity thanks to EKY Remote, Shaping Our Appalachian Region’s nationally recognized remote worker relocation initiative led by Program Director Latasha Friend.
The program attracts skilled remote workers to Eastern Kentucky, offering personalized relocation support and incentives to help families settle successfully.
The impact of the first two years is immediate, measurable, and transformative:
- 62 families relocated from 28 states to 27 counties
- 118 adults and 68 children became part of local schools and communities
- $6+ million in new annual wages
- $11.2 million estimated total annual economic impact
- $300,000+ in additional SEEK funding for local schools
EKY Remote is one of the most cost-effective economic development strategies for Eastern Kentucky. It directly benefits communities, schools, and local businesses while enhancing regional competitiveness in the national workforce market.
And this momentum is only set to grow in 2026.
Families Moving, Communities Thriving
EKY Remote is reversing decades of population loss by helping families from across the country find a new home in Eastern Kentucky. And they’re starting by bringing native Eastern Kentuckians back home.
Molly grew up in Eastern Kentucky, but moved away after college. She described her relocation back to the region as “turning someday into today.”
With guidance from Latasha Friend and EKY Remote, she navigated the move, completed home renovations, and reconnected with the community she loved. Being back allowed her to be closer to family, enjoy the scenery, and get the satisfaction of contributing to her home region’s economic and social life.
Other families are also discovering welcoming neighborhoods, engaging in local activities, and contributing to the economy from day one.
Byron and his spouse moved to Magoffin County and quickly found a sense of belonging.
“My spouse and I have both traveled and lived in many different places within the United States. However, we have never met a more welcoming community as we found in Eastern Kentucky. We have joined a beekeepers meeting, received fresh eggs from neighbors, and made new friends. For anyone looking to move to a place that would be great to raise a family, this would be it,” Byron shared.
Homero, Katie, and their daughter relocated from Missouri to Pikeville and found exactly what they were looking for.
“This was the best thing to do, moving to Pikeville, Kentucky. This is exactly what my family and I were looking for. If you are looking to get away from that city life and live in peace, come here. Don’t let fear stop you,” Homero said.
Jenifer and James moved from Michigan and also found guidance every step of the way.
“Once we connected with Latasha, everything fell into place. She answered all our questions and provided information about local amenities like doctors, places to shop, and parks. If you are looking to get out of the rat race and congestion, then this is where you want to be,” Jenifer said.
Together, these newly moved families aren’t just finding homes.
They’re helping Eastern Kentucky grow, thrive, and welcome a new generation of residents.
Strengthening Eastern Kentucky Communities One Family at a Time
EKY Remote highlights the unique strengths of participating counties, making it easier for families to find the right fit while promoting local growth.
Laurel County, Pulaski County, and Boyd County are just a few examples of these participating Eastern Kentucky communities. They each offer distinct advantages, from quality schools and outdoor recreation to cultural amenities and welcoming neighborhoods.
Through detailed Community Profiles, families learn about local housing, schools, broadband access, and lifestyle options.
By showcasing these strengths, the EKY Remote encourages movers to invest in the region, supporting school enrollment, tax revenue, and local business growth. EKY Remote ensures every relocation benefits not only the family, but the participating community, strengthening the local economy and enhancing quality of life.
Whether coming from Michigan like Ashley and Shayne or from Texas like the Barry family, movers get access to an Eastern Kentucky Housing Guide, active community Facebook Group, and resources to integrate into the community and settle down for the long term.
Investing in Growth and the Future
With two years of successful outcomes, including recognition as one of the top worker relocation programs in the United States, EKY Remote is ready to expand.
As a part of this growth, Catalyze EKY, in partnership with SOAR Innovation, specifically attracts startup founders and entrepreneurs to the region, providing resources, mentorship, and incentives to launch and scale tech-enabled businesses in Eastern Kentucky.
This complements the family relocation program by bringing new economic activity, innovation, and job creation to the participating communities.
It also aligns with Shaping Our Appalachian Region’s mission: To connect talent, opportunity, and community to get 15,000 Eastern Kentuckians to work by 2030.
The projected impact of this next phase hopes to attract 100 additional remote worker families and 25 remote startup founders to the region, as well as generate:
- $13.4 million in new annual wages
- $9.38 million in local consumer spending
- $500,000+ in additional SEEK funding
- $90,000 in estimated property taxes
- $9.33 million in indirect and induced economic activity
- Total projected annual economic impact of $32.9 million
- Cumulative two-year impact exceeding $65 million
Communities in Eastern Kentucky can partner with EKY Remote by providing support and incentives for new families, helping to strengthen schools, neighborhoods, and local economies.
Potential movers who are ready to build a life in Eastern Kentucky can learn more about the program, explore participating counties, and apply to be part of this award-winning region.
See EKY Remote in action and take the next step by applying for the program today!