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Best U.S. Cities for Remote Workers

Best US Cities for Remote Workers

According to Forbes, 25% of professional jobs in the US are worked from home offices.  This trend is expected to grow in the future, especially if you factor in freelance workers conducting business from home, quaint coworking spaces, or small businesses operating in residences rather than brick and mortar buildings.  

Remote work isn’t a new trend. However, the post-pandemic “new norm” has made virtual work an inevitable fact of business across all industries. Consequently, more people are applying to companies hiring remote workers, and more job-hunters are researching the best US cities for remote workers.

Table of Contents

What is Remote Working?

Remote working, also known as mobile or virtual working, is when employees or freelancers work from a location that is not a conventional, physical office or workplace.  For some virtual workers, this might look like banging out stock market projections on a laptop from their favorite coffee shop.  Or, it could be analyzing spreadsheets in a coworker space in North County

In other scenarios, a remote worker may carve out a space in their home to work either for themselves as a small business owner, an independent contractor, or work for an employer.  In any case, advancements in technology such as mobile devices, increasingly more powerful online applications and the internet have revolutionized how business is conducted today in terms of remote work.  Essentially, as long as you have a laptop, an internet connection and you have solid security advisory services to keep your internet and laptop safe from hacks, then you can work virtually anywhere as a remote worker.

Why Consider Working Remotely?

Although some companies are moving back into offices, remote work, or at least hybrid work (a mix of both in-office and remote work performed) is here to stay. Both employers and employees alike are reaping tremendous benefits from the remote work regime.  Employers are enjoying the reduced costs associated with keeping employees on-premises such as maintaining office spaces or keeping bathrooms or break rooms well-stocked.  According to Business News Daily, employers have also noticed a significant increase in work productivity in their employees who work from home. 

Remote work poses considerable advantages for employees and freelancers too.  Namely, the majority of people who opt to work from home claim they appreciate the comfort, flexibility and convenience of remote work. For instance, if you’re considering working remotely, you may likely have more control over time management, which could potentially allow you to better balance business with recreation. Thanks to tech platforms like Zoom for communication, Monday for task management, and Eloomi for online employee training it is easier than ever to stay in touch and scale your workforce from anywhere. You may also find you have greater flexibility to tend to family obligations while working from home.

Furthermore, you can feel gratified by helping the environment if you consider switching from conventional to remote work. How so? Because according to the Environmental Protection Agency, upwards to 40% of greenhouse gasses are to blame from fuel emissions during morning and afternoon work commutes.  Effectually, by not having to drive to the office, remote workers are contributing to environmental conservation.

It’s clear that there are impressive benefits if you’re considering remote work. From saving money, helping the environment and maybe even saving your sanity by reducing stress – remote work is definitely an appealing option.  

Not to mention, you can take your work with you wherever you go.  That’s why we’ve curated this helpful list of best US cities for remote workers, so you can pick, choose or perhaps even travel to each one of these grand locations to determine which is most suited for your current status and future plans for gainful, flexible, remote employment.  

Which U.S. City Should You Work Remotely From

As we pointed out, remote work offers you endless opportunities, including conducting business anywhere in the world. As long as you have the internet, and a laptop, tablet or even a smartphone, you can travel abroad, explore the US in a camper van, or even do work while following your favorite band on tour.  

But what if you need a more permanent live-work situation? We’ve got you covered. Here are some of the best cities to live for remote workers we think you will find most suitable for your remote work needs.

La Jolla, California

We can’t talk about the best cities for remote workers without mentioning our own hometown, La Jolla.  We’d also be remiss if we didn’t mention Dr. Seuss lived in La Jolla for over 40 years, and we’d like to think he loved working from home in our quiet, enchanting seaside village.  

La Jolla is an ideal remote-work setup because you have a buffet of beaches to explore, plenty of world-class golfing, sensational hiking and tons of other exciting adventures. Alongside pristine Pacific Coast views, La Jolla also features phenomenally diverse wildlife such as dolphins, seals and sea lions.  It’s the most picturesque place to sit oceanside at your favorite cafe while working from your trusty laptop. So, if you’re thinking about the perfect place to establish your remote work HQ, we’d love to share these tips on moving to California with you. 

San Diego, California

Some of the best companies to work for in San Diego offer remote-work opportunities, and there are plenty of options from which to choose. To explain, San Diego has a robust job market. It’s home to some heavy hitting employers such as the US Navy, Kaiser Permanente, hi-tech companies such as Qualcomm and biotech companies such as Pfizer – just to name a few.  

Aside from ample jobs for remote workers, San Diego is a bell-ringer when it comes to pristine beaches, world-class dining, entertainment parks, museums, and more. San Diego County provides all the excitement of beach village life with a low-key vibe. The locals are pleasant, and the neighborhoods range from beachy boho to breathtakingly palatial. What’s more, San Diego features some of the best year-round weather in the US.  

The cost of living might be a bit higher than other places in the US, however, it’s far cheaper than Los Angeles or New York.  If year-round balmy climate, bright beaches, sunny skies and surfing appeals to you, San Diego could very well be your next remote-work destination.  At the very least, you owe San Diego a trial-run for your remote work-living plans, because it is truly a treasure trove of art culture, magnificent food, convenient transportation, unique shopping, stunning seaside adventures and so much more.

San Francisco, California

Who wouldn’t love to work remotely in Golden Gate City? It was voted one of the top best cities for remote workers to live and play according to US News in 2021. With attractions such as Fisherman’s Wharf, picturesque views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz and the splendidly hikeable Muir Woods – San Fran is definitely a peach of a city for remote workers. 

Their biggest business industry is in tourism and hospitality, which is experiencing a boon in remote worker hiring since 2020. Some noteworthy employers in the Bay Area include Tesla, Facebook, Lyft, Wells Fargo, and McKesson. 

The cost of living is significantly higher (by 80%) than the national average according to PaySale.com. However, you wouldn’t have to commute as a remote worker, and almost anything you need is within walking distance as well (depending upon where you live). Year-round temperatures average in the 40s for the lows and 70s for the highs, making it an amiable environment to enjoy the local flair and flavor.

Boulder, Colorado

If you appreciate mixing work with hearty, rugged fun, Boulder might be a dream come true for your virtual working destination. Not only was it voted one of the best cities to live by US News in 2022, it’s also one of the best US cities for remote workers. Boulder has wooed many corporate juggernauts such as IBM, Google, Amazon, Starbucks, and more. It is also a city that is at the forefront of industries such as IT, software development, bioscience, and aerospace.

Boulder offers an impressive array of enticements to remote workers looking for rugged adventures and excitement. From camping in the Rocky Mountain National Park, rock climbing in the Flatiron Mountains, to skiing at nearby Vail – there is no limit to excursions you can dive into during your off hours from remote work. 

If you love snow, Boulder has plenty to offer. They average around 89 inches of powder per year, and while the winters can be freezing, the summers are exceptionally nice with average temps in the 70s.  The cost of living in Boulder is over 42% over the national average. However, the cost of transportation and healthcare is around 5-6% lower than the rest of the nation. 

Sedona, Arizona

This is a hot spot for vacationers and remote workers alike.  If you love the romance and rusticity of the great American Southwest, Sedona will speak to your soul. It features lively outdoor activities such as hiking through the Bell Rock Pathway, exploring Courthouse Butte, and even off-roading through the wild, rugged Devil’s Bridge Trail.  Sedona has a mellow vibe, and is also home to many known spiritual retreats. If you appreciate a soulful, artistic vibe where you live, then Sedona might fit your bill.

Because it’s known as a major tourist attraction, one of Sedona’s largest industries is hospitality and food services. The city is also a hub for other industries such as healthcare, social assistance, finance and management services. Aside from the hospitality industry, Sedona also excels in areas of pharmaceuticals, electronics and mixed freight.

If you like it hot, then Sedona is your spot. Year-round temperatures average in the low 30s to the high 90s, with a few days hitting over the 100 mark on the mercury in summertime.  According to UpNest.com the cost of living in Sedona is 13% higher than the national average. This is significantly less expensive than the aforementioned best cities for remote workers. However, keep in mind the housing in Sedona is steep – about 103% higher than the national average. 

Glendale, Arizona

About a nine mile road trip from Phoenix, awaits Glendale. This city has the glitter and livewire feeling with entertainment attractions such as the Westgate Entertainment District, Desert Diamond Casino, and Glendale Historic Center. 

If you’re into sports, Glendale is a host to several arenas and game day destinations such as Gila River Arena, Camelback Ranch, and State Farm Stadium, which is the home of the Arizona Cardinals.

Glendale enjoys a warm, arid climate year-round with chilly temps in the winter and highs in the 90s during the summer. Its crisp, clear weather prompts many remote workers to relocate to Glendale, as well as its thriving art scene, hospitality industry, and jumping retail shopping scene. 

Glendale’s biggest employers are Aurora Behavioral Health System, Arizona College, and RSI Enterprises which deals in insurance adjustments and claims. The cost of living in Glendale is cheaper than Sedona, but buying a house in the city may prove challenging as the housing is 177% higher in Glendale than the national average.

Seattle, Washington

If you’d prefer to work amidst viridian pine forests and majestic mountains, Seattle might be your ideal scene. Many remote workers flock to Seattle because it’s a short jaunt to some of the most bedazzling national parks such as Mount Rainier, North Cascades and Olympic National Park.  

So, if you can see yourself hiking through the breathtaking overlooks at Maple Pass Loop, or boating in Diablo Lake while camping at Colonial Creek in the North Cascades – then Seattle can slake your thirst for outdoor adventure. Seattle also showcases exciting entertainment, grand dining, shopping and tons of things to do. Not to mention, as Seattle is the birthplace of Starbucks, the city has an incredible coffee culture. 

Unlike southern regions of the US, you can expect to encounter quite a bit of moisture, as the average rainfall is about 37 inches. Temperatures vary during the seasons, but the year-round average is about high 60s and low 40s.  Compared to other cities in the nation, the cost of living in Seattle is about 49% higher than the average national rate according to PayScale.com. 

What might be most attractive is that the Emerald City is known as one of the most educated cities in the nation.  Therefore, academics are one of its biggest industries and remote jobs in this market are growing. In fact, the city has enjoyed a 23% growth in the last decade. This is mostly due to heavyweight home-grown companies such as Amazon and Microsoft.  Currently, there are over 500 top tech companies based in Seattle, which means remote jobs in technology are ripe for the picking. 

Cincinnati, Ohio

According to US News, Cincinnati is one of the most family-friendly cities in which to live.  It’s also one of the best US cities for remote workers with families because it is a treasure trove of art, sports, fabulous food, and amusements.  Between taking the gang out to the Great American Ball Park to watch the Cincinnati Reds play, to gawping at the animals at USA Today’s top-rated Cincinnati Zoo, or smelling the roses at the city’s highly-acclaimed Botanical Gardens – you’ll have no end of things to do and explore in the city.

Cincinnati is considered ideal for young families because of its low cost of living point. A survey from Cincinnati Experience, claims it’s one of the most affordable metropolitan areas to live in within the US, and the cost of living in Cincinnati is 8% lower than the national average. The weather is also a draw for new residents because of its four distinctive seasons, with wintertime lows averaging in the 20s and summertime highs barely inching into the 80s.

Cincinnati is also home to some major Fortune 500 companies such as Procter & Gamble, Fifth Third Bank, Kroger, and American Financial Group. The city’s biggest industries are technology, biohealth, business professional services and manufacturing. If you are looking for culture, low cost of living, and a family-friendly city while working in a thriving business environment from home – Cincinnati might be your ace in the hole.

St. George, Utah

Located in the Southwestern region of Utah, St. George is an excellent location for remote workers who would love to live in warm, arid climates and crave exploring stunning landscapes.  Conveniently located close to Zion National Park, Snow Canyon State Park, and Bryce Canyon National Park – St. George is a mecca for hikers, campers, rock climbers, and outdoor enthusiasts.

St. George does get hot, with temperatures rising in the 100s in the peak of summer. However, it rarely gets below freezing, and hardly ever snows. It’s also an appealing city because of its low population (around 100,000 residents at the time of this writing) and affordable cost of living. According to Vittana Personal Finance, it is one of the cheapest places to live in the country. What’s more, crime rates are low and St. George boasts one of the best educational systems in the state. This makes it one of the best cities to live for remote workers with families – so it’s definitely worth a road trip to Utah to check it out.

The biggest industries in St. George includes oil, gas, mining, agriculture, and construction is its biggest coup.  Some of the largest companies that have made St. George headquarters are Intermountain Healthcare, Ferguson Enterprises, Deans Foods and Sears Holdings. 

Of course, as with any remote work position, if you have effective knowledge management software and a properly equipped mobile office, you don’t necessarily need to approach these St. George-based companies for employment.  Nevertheless, this city might be an ideal place to live while you remotely work for your current employer, or while seeking different employment opportunities from home.

Madison, Wisconsin

According to Business Insider, Madison WI is ranked number 5 among the top best cities to live, work, play – and most importantly – eat!  Madison is a hotspot for superior dining, world-class restaurants and world-renowned chefs.  What’s more, Madison has built an impressive hub of food co-ops, green markets, foodie festivals and other outlets that take full advantage of the area’s local produce.

Madison is not only the capital of Wisconsin, it is also known as “The City of Four Lakes” because it is prominently located amidst lakes Kegonsa, Waubesa, Monona and Mendota – all of which offer sublime camping, watersports, hiking and outdoor recreation. 

Downtown is equally engaging to the senses with its miles of biking trails, walking paths, parks and green spaces that are the envy of bigger cities. And because it’s small in comparison to other cities (its current population of around 255,000), Madison oozes the charming, small-town vibe and residents pride themselves on the motto, “There are no strangers in Madison.”

It’s no secret that it gets cold in Wisconsin. The winters in Madison can be snowy with average freezing temps in the teens.  Summertime temps rarely get over the mid 80s, and the four seasons are strikingly distinctive with fall foliage and verdant springs.

Madison is one of several thriving cities looking for remote workers, as well as hybrid work (working partly from home and partly at a company’s office).  The city’s biggest hiring companies include American Family Insurance, Alliant Energy, Spectrum Brands, Raven Software, Microsoft, Google and Zendesk.  

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Between its rich history, diverse art culture and admirable educational facilities – Pittsburgh has become quite an attractive destination for remote workers. The heart of the city is a gem for shopping, fine dining, and sightseeing. The city features great swaths of green spaces where families can enjoy picnics, or go dog walking, jogging, bicycling and experience an array of outdoor activities. What’s more, Pittsburgh is considered one among 61 “Blue Zone” communities in which residents are known to live longer than average age expectancy.

Pittsburgh enjoys the full range of seasons, with an average of around 20 inches of snow in the wintertime, and balmy 80’ish degrees in the summer.  Residents take full advantage of milder summer weather by flocking to Kennywood, which was voted America’s finest amusement parks by Parade Magazine. 

Additionally, Pittsburgh is considered very affordable to live in comparison to the rest of the nation. Coupled with tons of things to do with the whole family and reasonable cost of living, which is 8% lower than the national average, makes Pittsburgh very enticing for remote workers with families.  

Pittsburgh is often called the “Comeback State” because its economy continued to thrive even after the industrial climax of steel mills declined in the 1980s.  Today, Pittsburgh is home to over 13% of America’s tech companies, including hosting tech facilities such as Facebook, AutoDesk, Apple, Microsoft and Zoom.

Atlanta, Georgia

Old southern charm, loads of history, and quaint neighborhoods await you in Atlanta, the capital of the Peach State. This city is an intriguing mix of old and new as it honors its heritage and traditions while continuously looking to the future in terms of growth and innovation.  

Atlanta has a mild climate, and while it can get humid and muggy, the sprawling green beauties of native Indian Grass, Scarlet Sage, Buttonbush, and Jewelweed are a joyous sight to behold all around the city and its surrounding suburbs. 

Speaking of suburbs, the neighborhoods offer loads of Victorian homes, craftsman bungalows, and all kinds of housing that is surprisingly affordable compared to the Eastern Seaboard.  A bit of research into garden-centric neighborhoods such as Doraville, Forest Park or Smyrna might surprise you as to how these majestic homes can fit into your remote-work price range.

If you’re looking for remote work in the area, you’ll be pleased to know that Atlanta has more than a dozen Fortune 500 companies hiring remote workers and in-house workers (or a combination of the two in a hybrid situation).  Since 2017, Forbes Magazine voted Atlanta as one of the uppermost five listed cities in the country for the technology industry.

Savannah, Georgia

The state of Georgia continues to impress with the sleepy-feeling, sultry, sensational city of Savannah.  Savannah feels more like a quiet town than a city that boasts almost 150,000 residents. This laid-back feeling is enhanced by the presence of constant attractions such as Grand Prix car racing, top-billed music concerts, riveting museums, art galleries, food festivals and exciting city-wide events held year-round.

Visitors and residents alike are all abuzz about Savannah’s Historic District which features breathtaking homes.  Communities such as the Waterways are most renowned for their sturdy live oaks dripping with glorious webbing of Spanish moss that is quintessential of Savannah.  Another fond attraction of Savannah is that it’s just moments away from Tybee Island beach – a beloved attraction for tourists and residents alike that features one of the few still functional 18th century lighthouses upon its banks.

Located on the Atlantic coast, Savannah enjoys humid, warm summers without any threat of freezing temperatures or snow in the winter.  The months of March through July are the most amazing with azalea blooms unfolding and honeysuckles blossoming without it being too terribly sticky-hot outside. 

Savannah continues to check the boxes for many remote workers because the housing expenses are 33% lower than the national average.  This is something to be said when you check out some of the extraordinarily beautiful homes in the area.  Furthermore, Savannah is a host to several Fortune 500 companies such as SunTrust Bank, Northwestern Mutual, Owens Corning and General Dynamics.

Nashville, Tennessee

US News proclaims Nashville among the top 15 best places to live in America out of a survey of 125 other metropolitan areas.  There are several factors for the attractive allure of Nashville, including a burgeoning food scene, an electric night scene, incredible creative arts culture and more. As its nickname implies, The Music City is replete with entertainment, including the famous Grand Ole Opry where musicians such as Dolly Parton, Patsy Cline, Hank Williams and Garth Brooks got their start in country music. 

Increasingly, Nashville is becoming a magnet for young people with 26% of new residents aged under 20 and 25% newcomers under the age of 45. Part of the reason Nashville is luring in younger folks might be because the cost of living is lower than the national average. However, the housing market is booming at the moment. This might make finding an affordable home a bit of a challenge because 50% of the homes are selling up to 10% over list price – and the best properties go fast – selling in just the span of weeks.

Nonetheless, Nashville is a beacon for sports fans as it hosts five professional sports teams.  For instance, Bridgestone Arena is home to the Nashville Predators hockey team. Then there is the Nissan Stadium where you can check out the Tennessee Titans.  If you’re into golf, you’ll find the Simmons Bank Open a real treat during the PGA tour.

The weather is typically mild year-round, which makes attending music festivals and outdoor concerts (of which are plenty in Nashville) a joy.  But if you should run into inclement weather, Nashville has plenty of indoor entertainment like the famous “Mother Church of Country Music” also known as the legendary Ryman Auditorium.

The job market is booming in Nashville, which is another reason for new blood moving into the area. As you might assume, the Music City’s biggest industry is music and entertainment. But this honkey tonk town is spilling over with remote work jobs in other industries such as healthcare, banking & finance, and transportation. 

Minneapolis, Minnesota

Referring back to the helpful statistics provided by the US News, the appeal of Minneapolis is largely weighted towards the low cost of living. It’s ranked #21 best cities to live in the US based on residents spending a meager 21% of household income on living expenses, which is impressively low compared to other big cities. 

The housing market, as true with most metro areas at this time, is high and it’s a seller’s game. Regardless, even though homes are selling at above market price, they are still significantly more affordable than other cities mentioned in this guide.

The average weather temps range wildly from the teens in winter and mid-eighties in the summer.  It does snow – a lot – in Minneapolis.  But, not to worry, there are plenty of things to do when the snow flies. For instance, Minneapolis has a blossoming craft beer scene, boasting over 80 different breweries. Have a pint of micro Irish ale at Finnegan’s Brewery, or try a German-inspired brew during Oktoberfest in Bauhaus Brew Labs.

But Minneapolis isn’t all about good food and drink. For instance, the state goes by the name of “The Land of 10,000 Lakes,” which should clue you into the bounty that abounds.  Around a third of Minnesota is carpeted in lush forests and there are over 14,000 bodies of freshwater that graces the state’s landscapes.  There are many national parks close to Minneapolis such as Voyageurs National Park where you can be mesmerized by the Northern Lights best seen in the wintertime. 

Major industries of Minneapolis include fabrication of metal, plastics, rubber and furniture as well as an ever-growing healthcare market. The top Fortune 500 hiring companies with facilities in the Minneapolis area include Target, UnitedHealth Group, Best Buy, 3M, and General Mills.

St. Louis, Missouri

You might be singing show tunes from Meet Me In St. Louis, because this is one among the many cities looking for remote workers more aggressively than others.  The biggest industries in need of hybrid or remote workers include healthcare, medical services, aerospace, printing, publishing and electrical equipment manufacturing. St. Louis is also enjoying a healthy growth in the field of biotechnology.

Known as the “Gateway to the West,” St. Louis is the largest city in Missouri located along the Mississippi River. It boasts tons of opportunities for newcomers such as an enviable historical district downtown, and the St. Louis Union Station which is one of the largest passenger rail terminals in the world. Of course, there is also the unforgettable Gateway Arch built in honor of Thomas Jefferson.

St. Louis is a big draw for transplants with families because it has a thriving, family-friendly environment. There are tons of activities for the whole family, including Six Flags of St. Louis, watching the Cardinals at Busch Stadium, and the St. Louis Aquarium at Union Station.  Additionally, educational opportunities are premium in the city, which is a major appeal.   

The weather can be erratic, with hot and muggy summers and snowy winters. Nonetheless, residents take full advantage of year-round weather conditions while enjoying brilliant green spaces at Babler State Park, Gateway Mall Plaza, Rockwoods Reservation or ambling through any one of the St. Louis area’s other 108 parks spanning over 2,900 acres.

Des Moines, Iowa

As a remote worker, you may find yourself at an advantage in Des Moines in terms of cost of living. Statistics show that 20% of annual income is disposable – meaning that’s a fine opportunity to spend earnings on other items outside of housing like paying off debt or shopping.  Speaking of shopping, Des Moines has sensational shopping locations such as the Historic East Village, Jordan Creek Town Center, and the Valley West Mall.

According to Forbes, Des Moines is named the number one city in the nation for education and raising a family. The communities are friendly, and there is no shortage of highly ranked schools.  Des Moines also has a thriving cultural arts scene and festivals are a major attraction such as the Art Along the Trail event, 80/35 Music Festival, Des Moines Art Center, and American Enterprise Art Park.

The summers in Des Moines can be rainy, warm and humid and the winters can be quite chilly with snow and freezing temperatures.  The best time to visit Des Moines’ glorious outdoor attractions such as Gray’s Lake Park, Rotary Riverwalk, or Sargeant park is in the months of June through September.

Boston, Massachusetts

Working remotely in the coastal city of Boston offers gobs of appeal for anyone looking for cultural diversity, world-class cuisine, outstanding healthcare and exceptional shopping.  Home to over 600,000 people, Bostonians enjoy a convenient and expansive transportation system, which makes getting around the city a breeze.  

If public transportation isn’t your thing, then you’ll be pleased to know Boston was voted as one of the 8th best cities for pedestrians and got a walkability score of 86 by Livability.com.  

Boston encourages walking, bicycling and enjoying lovely green spaces such as the historic walking tours of the Freedom Trail. And let’s not forget America’s very first public park in Boston known as The Common which features a vintage carousel, green spaces, picnic areas and even ice skating in the winter.

Speaking of winter, Boston does get its fair share of frigid temps and the average snowfall is around 48 inches.  Summers, however, are warm and balmy with the highs rarely getting into the low 90s.  The mild summers are perfect for the endless events you can attend in Boston like the Cambridge Science Festival, the Boston Marathon, Boston Calling Music Festival, or the myriad of food festivals and farmer’s markets found in Boston.

Rogers, Arkansas

One of the most notable attractions about Rogers is that it has an array of entertainments such as outdoor recreations enjoyed at Beaver Lake, walking through the Pinnacle Hills area or golfing at the high-tech driving range at TopGolf complex.  Rogers has a small-town feel with lazy days and rustic charm. But Rogers isn’t all about moseying and taking it easy. They have a surprisingly jumping night scene on the west side of Rogers where you can enjoy live music, handcrafted cocktails and excellent cuisine. Rogers also features impressive museums, history, and downtown is flowing with art venues.

The biggest draw Rogers has for remote workers might be the low cost of living and affordable housing. While the area is a sellers market like most cities at this time, listings are fairly priced and inexpensive compared to national averages. In fact, according to Niche.com it’s far more manageable to own a home rather than rent, which could be ideal if you are a remote worker wanting to buy a home in a charming town. 

Rogers is also attractive for remote workers wanting moderate temperatures and climate. The summers can get muggy, but the heat isn’t extreme, with highs in the mid 80s. Winters average in the 20s for the lows and 40s or 50s for the highs, which means snow and freezing is an uncommon occurrence in Rogers.

While Rogers is relatively small (population of about 66,000 residents to date), it is home to several shopping malls, and numerous historical landmarks that are registered by the National Register of Historic Places.  Rogers also has a dozen neighborhood parks, two lakes and a mind-boggling cave and cavern system that is truly spelunk-worthy for the adventurous at heart.

Cleveland, Ohio

According to TIME, Cleveland ranked seventh in terms of the best places for foodies. The city is a generous host of trendy new bistros, eateries and cafes.  Cleveland’s food scene is varied in that you can have almost any cuisine imaginable from Vietnamese to Pizza – the city knows how to feed its food-lovers.  

Cleveland also doesn’t leave its residents thirsty because they have an exploding craft beer scene. In fact, Cleveland ranks 5th in the nation for its craft breweries according to the Brewer’s Association.

Aside from food and drink, Cleveland should stand strong in your running for the best US cities for remote workers for its stunning parklands of which it boasts 150 and over 230,000 acres of natural parks, green spaces and outdoor recreational areas.  

These outdoor parks can be enjoyed during the mild summer months when it doesn’t get too hot.  And when the freezing temps and snow comes falling in Cleveland, you can enjoy ice skating at several outdoor rinks such as the Cleveland Foundation Ice Rink at Public Square.  Or, you could go tobogganing at the toboggan chutes at Mill Stream Run Reservation.

As the largest city on Lake Erie, Cleveland is recognized as a major metropolis in the Midwest. Because it’s a hub connecting the Midwest to the east and west of the US and Canada to the north, it enjoys a thriving, diverse culture, incredible history and remarkable art culture.

As a remote worker, you will appreciate that the cost of living in Cleveland is 27% below the national average.  What’s more, Cleveland was voted the 5th most affordable place to live for newcomers looking to rent. 

Bozeman, Montana

If your aesthetic runs towards bone-crushingly rustic views, rugged mountain ranges and wild frontier vibes, then Bozeman is definitely a contender for the best cities to live for remote workers.  

You’ll be awestruck by the Bridger Mountains, and your breath will stop once you witness the stunning sunsets from Peets Hill.  Bozeman Parks Department maintains 42 public parks with over 50 miles of walking, jogging and biking trails at Sunrise Rotary Club, Gallatin Valley Land Trust, and other outdoor parks.

Whether you fancy rock climbing, mountain biking, fishing, or canoeing – Bozeman is a wonderland of outdoor activities.  Bozeman is also a skier’s paradise, as the winter manifests ample heaps of snow.  However, the summers are mild, which lends a perfect setting for hiking and biking.

But natural beauty isn’t the only perk to living and remote working in Bozeman. Visit the University’s Museum of the Rockies which follows the area’s history as well as features the Siebel Dinosaur Complex with the most impressive collection of Tyrannosaurus Rex specimens. 

The cost of living in Bozeman is neither above or below the national average, which implies you should be able to obtain affordable housing as well as afford a comfortable lifestyle while remote working in Bozeman.  

While you’re savoring the wild frontier energy of Bozeman, you should also be able to afford checking out the exceptional shopping at boutiques and unique shops in the downtown area.  You’ll also be able to splurge at fine dining establishments Bozeman has to offer such as the Nova Cafe, Dave’s Sushi-Off Main and the Blackbird Kitchen which serves up some of the best pasta and wood-fired pizza in the Rocky’s.

Austin, Texas

If you like living in locations that are quirky and a bit off-beat, Austin could be your remote-work destination.  As the capital of the Lone Star state, Austin offers a cowboy, country-western energy mixed in with a communal passion for innovation and creative freedom.  

Living up to the local motto “Keep Austin weird,” Austin is a treasure trove of the unique and unusual.  Proof of this can be found in the Museum of the Weird on 6th Street which features truly odd and curious displays.  You might also appreciate a bizarre shopping experience at the Uncommon Objects shop in the South Congress area.

If your stomach makes your decisions for you in terms of the best place to live while working remotely, then Austin should be your north star.  You’ll drool over the Salty Sow’s scrumptious BBQ slow-cooked beef shoulder. And if you’re a pushover for quality Mexican food, the Suerte restaurant will totally satisfy you with their elevated Mexican dishes meant for sharing. 

Then there is the nightlife, which is completely switched-on in Austin. Hit any number of nightclubs such as the bedazzling Rose Room featuring light shows and high octane sound.  Or, check out Antone’s Nightclub on 5th Street, where they hail the icons of blues like Stevie Ray Vaugh, Eric Clapton and BB King.

Austin isn’t just about indulgent food, craft beer, exceptional wine and a grooving nightlife scene. As Austin stays warm year-round, it’s a massive playground for outdoor activities.  For example, Zilker Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts with its 351-acres touting fun activities such as volleyball, picnicking, botanical gardens, outdoor theater and swimming in the Barton Springs Pool.

Austin’s cost of living is 3% below the national average.  Housing can be expensive, and remember that air conditioning could get costly in the hot, humid summer months. However, grocery and healthcare costs fall below the national average, so you can easily find a happy-medium in terms of living affordably in Austin.

Irving, Texas

A stone’s throw away from Dallas, and Fort Worth, Irving has grown into a mammoth metropolis featuring all the big city amenities and attractions you would expect from the DFW metroplex.  Irving offers incredible diversity, outdoor spaces. What’s more, the planned community of Las Colinas in Irving is a champion for thriving business, home developments, golf courses, parks, and sparkling riverwalks.

The cost of living in Irving is 7% higher than the national average, but grocery and health costs are lower. Most newcomers to Irving opt to rent along with the 58% of other renters who rent over owning.  The reason for this is that houses in Irving can be pricey, with homes being listed at 10% or higher over average market prices. 

Irving’s weather is similar to Austin in that the summers are hot and long.  However, the winters are exceptionally mild.  In the sweltering summer you can duck into the air-conditioned American Airlines C.R. Smith Museum featuring all manner of aviation history and exhibits.  Or, during the milder winter months, you could mosey along the 5-mile long Breckenridge Trail, or amble through the winding seven acres of the Crape Myrtle Trails in nearby McKinney. 

Irving has earned high marks as one of the best US cities for remote workers because of its booming industries in technology, distribution, life science, healthcare, aerospace and aviation.  The city serves as headquarters to heavyweights such as Exxon Mobil, Fluor Corp., Kimberly-Clark and Celanese.

Jersey City, New Jersey

Voted the number one waterfront city in the state of New Jersey, Jersey City has loads of activities, charm, family-friendly fun, shops, restaurants and incredible recreational diversions.  Working remotely from Jersey City could see you hammering out spreadsheets while sitting on a bench at the scenic Liberty Park while admiring the breathtaking city skyline.  You might also stop by Beachwood Cafe on Park Ave to savor one of their 5-star cappuccinos.

After you finish up work, you may also want to sample some of the spectacular dining opportunities, such as Harry’s Daughter, a Caribbean-inspired gastropub. Or, you must check out The Boil, which is famous for scrumptious New Orlean-style seafood boils. Then there is Madame Claude, which severs up authentic French cuisine like coq au vin and escargot in a rustic setting. 

The cost of living in Jersey City is 31% higher than the national average.  Most residents and newcomers opt to rent over buying a home as the real estate prices can be hair-raisingly high. In terms of weather, Jersey sees four distinct seasons with summertime highs in the high 80s and the winters stir up freezing temps as well as snow and wind.

Washington, D.C.

Obviously, if you’re a history buff or have your finger on the pulse of national politics, Washington is a no-brainer place to live when you can work remotely.  Not only is it the nation’s capital, but DC is also teeming with a staggering array of eateries, entertainment, shopping, and slew of activities.

Pack your laptop and work on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial, grab a bite to eat at the nearby Founding Farmer where they serve up some of the most delicious hash dishes in DC.  If you truly want to submerge yourself in the rich history and culture of DC, prepare to buckle in to view one of over 150 million exhibits housed in the 17 museums and galleries known as the Smithsonian Institution.  Whether political, military, geographical, or art – history is at the center of Washington.

As the nation’s capital, you might have expected that it can be expensive to work remotely and live in Washington.  The cost of living is 39% higher here than the national average.  The summers can be muggy and warm, and the winters render snow and freezing temperatures.

Regardless of the weather, there’s always something to do in the District of Columbia. For instance, the National Park Service maintains over 30 parks in DC. Enjoy the spring blossoms by walking the river trail of Anacostia, Chesapeake Bay, and the Constitution Gardens.  And if the winter is too blustery, you can spend time browsing in over 40 shops at the City Center DC, which features high-end shops like Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and the Tesla shop. 

New York City, New York

If you can’t find just about anything your heart desires in NYC, then you’re not looking hard enough.  It’s a perfect location from which to work remotely because the Big Apple is home to almost every type of entertainment, activity, food, drink, museum, and historical landmark you can imagine.

As you may already know, NYC is a tremendously busy metropolis. It’s home to over 8 million people, and its combined residents speak over 800 languages.  This gives you a hint as to the cultural diversity the city has to offer.  From art, to music, food to history, NYC is a mecca for anyone seeking adventures, learning and eclectic living.

NYC is one of the best cities for remote workers because it puts you in the thick of heady activity and hustle without having to compromise with hectic commutes to the office. What’s more, NYC has many coworking spaces, which are communal offices where you can interact with other people while still working remotely.

You’ll experience four distinct seasons in New York City, and they’re all sublime in their own way.  The changing fall foliage in Central Park is a marvel to behold, and ice skating in Rockefeller Plaza in the wintertime is sheer joy.  Summers tend to be humid and average in the mid 80 temperatures, which might be an ideal time to kayak down the Hudson or relax at Chelsea Beach. 

As mentioned, you can work anywhere virtually, but some companies have location restrictions for remote work.  In this case, there are ample NYC companies hiring remote workers such as Aetna, American Express, Verizon, MetLife, and JP Morgan Chase.

The cost to live in NYC is 63% higher than the national average. This doesn’t sound too shabby, but the housing market is crazy and the price for buying a home ranges a whopping 369% higher than the national average, so most newcomers opt to rent.  Even so, rental spaces are in short supply, and it can be hard to find ideal real estate in NYC.  Regardless, when it comes to having the best of all worlds, NYC is definitely the place to be if you work remotely.  

The Last Word on the Best US Cities for Remote Workers

If, after reviewing this exhaustive list of the best cities for remote workers, you are still on the fence – don’t worry.  The luxury of working remotely is that you can pack a bag and visit one or all of these destinations while you stay on your work schedule. If you gravitate towards a city, then by all means, spend some time there before you make the leap to living there. After all, that’s the beauty of working virtually – as long as you have updated cyber security protection on your laptop and internet, you have the flexibility and mobility to work while you sample your final living destination.

About the author: Avia is the published author of The Idiot’s Guide to the Tarot and Exploring the Radiant Rider-Waite, and her writing has been featured in publications such as Woman’s World and Sedona magazines. When she’s not reading or blogging, she’s baking scrummy treats for her three dogs, crocheting, or improving her calligraphy. You can say “howdy” and find out what Avia is up to on her LinkedIn profile.

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