Personal Finance

Jobs That Pay for Employee Housing

a herd of sheep grazing in a field at sunset .
a herd of sheep grazing in a field at sunset .
DB
By Damon Bodine
Founder
Damon has been breaking boundaries for years. He hopes to create a world filled with greater opportunities and abundance for more people.

Imagine starting a job where your living expenses are taken care of—no rent, no mortgage, and no utility bills. Whether you’re looking for adventure, a fresh start, or just a way to cut living costs, many employers offer housing as part of their compensation package. Here's a compelling look at some industries and companies that provide this unique benefit.

National Parks

National parks are always hiring for seasonal workers. These roles often include employee housing, making it easier to live and work in remote areas. Beyond stunning views and access to nature, employees often enjoy perks like discounted meals, outdoor recreation opportunities, and tight-knit community living. Whether you're working in guest services, maintenance, or guiding tours, these jobs allow you to immerse yourself in some of the most beautiful places in the country.

  • Xanterra manages lodges in iconic locations like Yellowstone and the Grand Canyon, offering dormitory-style housing for employees.Learn More
  • Delaware North provides housing at parks and resorts across the U.S.Explore Careers

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Work Camping

Many campgrounds in the US hire seasonal employees. Commonly known as “work camping” these arrangements can be a go to for full time RV’ers as they often let you trade labor for a full hookup site.. Jobs range from hospitality to maintenance, all while embracing the outdoors. In addition to accommodations, some positions also offer hourly wages or discounts on amenities like propane and laundry facilities. Work camping is perfect for those who love connecting with fellow travelers while exploring scenic destinations across the country.

  • Under Canvas offers housing to employees working at glamping resorts near national parks.Check It Out
  • Check out https://workampingjobs.com/ and browse Facebook Groups dedicated to connecting work campers with housing opportunities.

Ski Resorts and Dude Ranches

Seasonal workers at ski resorts or dude ranches often enjoy employer-provided accommodations close to their job site. These jobs come with added benefits, such as discounted lift tickets, free or low-cost meals, and access to resort amenities like hot tubs and gyms. Whether you’re working as a ski instructor, kitchen staff, or ranch hand, these roles offer a chance to experience breathtaking mountain views and vibrant local communities. Plus, seasonal positions often foster lifelong friendships with fellow adventurers from around the world

  • Grand Targhee Resort in Wyoming offers affordable employee housing for winter and summer staff.View Opportunities
  • Explore job postings at Vail Resorts for roles that include housing.Discover More
  • Find ranch jobs with housing through RanchWork.Browse Ranch Jobs

Farming and Organic Agriculture

Love the idea of sustainable living? These opportunities allow you to immerse yourself in the rhythms of rural life while learning about organic agriculture and sustainable practices. From harvesting crops to caring for animals, you'll gain hands-on experience living on site while connecting with like-minded hosts and travelers. Plus, many farms are located in stunning settings, offering a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life.

  • WWOOF (World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms) connects volunteers with organic farms worldwide.Start Here
  • HelpX and Workaway offer similar opportunities.Visit HelpX

Live-In Domestic and Personal Services

Caregivers, nannies, and estate managers often live on-site.. This arrangement not only ensures they are readily available to meet the needs of their employers but also eliminates housing costs, allowing for significant savings. In addition to accommodations, live-in roles often come with perks like paid utilities, meals, and access to household amenities. These positions can be especially appealing for individuals seeking stable, long-term employment in a family-oriented or private estate setting. From managing daily household operations to providing personalized care, live-in domestic roles offer a unique opportunity to work in a supportive, residential environment.

Cruise Ships and Maritime Industry

When you work on the water, your housing is part of the job, making this a unique and cost-effective way to live and work. Cruise ship employees enjoy onboard accommodations tailored to their role, ranging from shared cabins for entry-level positions to private quarters for senior staff. These living arrangements often include meals, utilities, and access to ship amenities like gyms, pools, and crew lounges, creating a supportive and engaging environment for workers during their contracts.

In the commercial fishing industry, housing typically comes in the form of bunk-style accommodations on boats or in nearby facilities, ensuring workers have a place to rest after long days on the water. For example, Alaska's fishing industry provides seasonal workers with housing and meals to make their stay as convenient as possible in remote locations.

These opportunities not only eliminate living costs but also provide a chance to travel, meet people from diverse backgrounds, and save money while working in dynamic and adventurous settings.

Volunteering

Organizations like AmeriCorps and the Peace Corps provide housing or stipends for their volunteers, making it easier to focus on serving communities without the financial strain of finding a place to live. These roles often combine purpose with practical benefits, offering participants the chance to make a meaningful impact while gaining life-changing experiences.

AmeriCorps positions frequently include housing support, ranging from on-site accommodations to stipends that help volunteers cover living expenses. This support allows members to fully immerse themselves in their work, whether they’re building homes, mentoring youth, or responding to disaster relief efforts.

Similarly, the Peace Corps provides housing for its volunteers in countries around the globe, ensuring they can live comfortably and safely while integrating into their host communities. Volunteers often live with host families or in community-provided housing, offering a unique opportunity to experience local cultures firsthand.

These programs not only alleviate financial pressures but also provide invaluable skills, global connections, and a sense of fulfillment that comes from making a difference. Volunteering through these organizations is an excellent way to give back, grow personally and professionally, and access essential support along the way.

  • AmeriCorps positions include housing support to help volunteers serve their communities.Learn More
  • Peace Corps provides housing for volunteers in over 60 countries worldwide.Explore Opportunities

Music and Entertainment Industry

Working in the music and entertainment industry often comes with unique perks, including housing arrangements during tours. Tour managers, sound technicians, lighting specialists, merch sellers, and other crew members frequently benefit from employer-provided accommodations, which are typically included as part of the job package. These arrangements ensure that crew members can stay close to the action, whether it's on a tour bus, in hotels, or in shared housing arranged by the production team.

Living on the road offers a rare chance to experience new cities, bond with a team of creatives, and be an integral part of live events that bring joy to thousands of fans. In addition to housing, many tours cover meals and travel expenses, allowing workers to save money while building valuable industry experience.

  • Many times these jobs are acquired through relationships. Its a good idea to get involved with your local music community. Facebook groups can also be helpful.

Why Consider Jobs with Housing?

Taking a job that includes housing can significantly cut costs, simplify your lifestyle, and open doors to adventure. Whether you’re passionate about the outdoors, travel, or new cultural experiences, these industries make it possible to live and work without the stress of rent or utility bills.


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