Remote work offers incredible flexibility, allowing you to choose where you work without being tied down by office locations. Did you know that some cities are better suited for remote workers due to factors like faster internet, lower costs, and more coworking spaces? If you're considering making a move, it's worth exploring the best remote work locations in the US, where you can find the perfect balance of work-life harmony, affordability, and connectivity.
Stay tuned; your perfect remote work destination might be on this list!
Criteria for Selecting Your Remote Work Location
Choosing where to work remotely isn’t just about picking a spot with a decent Wi-Fi connection. The right location can impact your productivity, work-life balance, and even your overall happiness. Whether you’re a digital nomad or setting up a home office, there are a few key factors to consider before settling in.
Let’s break down what really matters when selecting the perfect place to work remotely.
Internet connectivity and infrastructure
A fast, reliable internet connection isn’t just a convenience—it’s the foundation of remote work. Slow speeds and spotty service can mean missed deadlines, glitchy video calls, and endless frustration. Imagine trying to close a deal while your screen freezes or waiting minutes for an important file to upload. That’s why choosing a location with strong internet infrastructure is non-negotiable.
Reliable internet is like oxygen for remote workers.
Cost of living
Cost of living plays a huge role in choosing the right remote work location. After all, what’s the point of earning a solid income if most of it goes to rent? In Des Moines, Iowa, average rent costs about $995 per month. Buying a home there averages around $170,000. That's pretty affordable compared to big cities.
Choose a location that offers an even cheaper option per month. Lower housing costs mean more financial freedom, less stress, and a better overall quality of life for remote workers.
Accessibility of Setting up a Home Office
Setting up a home office that works for you is a game changer when working remotely, especially if you’ve got kids around. Start with the essentials: get an ergonomic chair that supports your back, a solid desk, and good lighting to reduce eye strain.
Working remotely, means long hours of sitting. A second monitor is a great investment for keeping your work organized, and noise-canceling headphones can help you tune out distractions. But it’s not just about the setup—boundaries matter too. Make sure your family knows when you’re in work mode and need some quiet time.
By creating a structured workspace and respecting those boundaries, you can balance your professional duties with family time and ensure a more focused, productive workday.
Access to coworking spaces
Let’s be real, working from home isn’t always ideal. Distractions pile up, the couch starts feeling a little too comfortable, and the line between work and personal life gets blurry. Consider a coworking space like coffee shops for remote work. They give remote workers a dedicated spot to focus, fast internet that won’t glitch mid-Zoom call, and even a chance to meet other professionals instead of just talking to your pet at home.
Whether you need a quiet space to crank out deep work or a more social setting to stay motivated, coworking spaces make remote work feel less isolating and a whole lot more productive..
Quality of life
Quality of life is a huge factor for remote workers. When you’re working from home, the atmosphere around you plays a huge role in your productivity and well-being. A location with beautiful weather, outdoor spaces, or a rich cultural scene can help lift your mood and boost focus, making work feel less like a grind and more like a balanced part of your day.
Having access to recreational activities, whether it's nature, local arts, or community events, gives you the opportunity to unwind after work, recharge, and maintain a healthy work-life balance. Ultimately, choosing a place with a high quality of life means finding a setting that supports both your professional success and personal happiness.
Top 10 Best Remote Work Locations in the US
The best remote work locations combine affordable living, great amenities, and a strong sense of community. Whether you’re looking for vibrant city life, quiet suburbs, or scenic getaways, these top 10 locations in the Unitesd States offer the perfect balance for remote workers seeking both work and lifestyle benefits.
Portland, Maine
Portland, Maine, has a lot to offer remote workers looking for a balance between work and lifestyle. With a median household income of $71,000 and average rent around $1,400 a month, it’s an affordable choice for those looking to settle into a remote job. In the next 3-4 years,
Portland is expected to be a top contender for work-from-home opportunities, thanks to its high-speed internet and a variety of well-equipped coworking spaces that make remote work seamless.
Portland’s charm lies in its mix of cutting-edge tech infrastructure and stunning coastal beauty. On top of that, the state offers student loan repayment programs, with up to $2,500 in refundable tax credits annually. This can ease financial burdens while you enjoy flexible working hours by the coast!
Honolulu, Hawaii
Honolulu, Hawaii, is the dream remote work destination for those who value beautiful weather and a rich cultural vibe year-round. With a median household income of $87,722, it’s a solid choice for remote workers, though the cost of living can be a bit on the higher side. Rent averages around $2,300 a month, and buying a home will set you back about $870,000.
But the benefits are undeniable; high-speed internet and top-notch coworking spaces make working from here a breeze. Imagine having beach views right from your workspace.
Des Moines, Iowa
Honolulu offers beach vibes, but Des Moines lures remote workers with its affordability. Median household income here hits $54,843. Rent an apartment for just $995 per month or buy a home for $170,000 on average.
Des Moines attracts digital nomads with remote-friendly incentive programs. The city's cost of living and quality public spaces make it ideal for work from home setups. Enjoy lower costs while tapping into a vibrant local community to boost your productivity.
New York, New York
New York remains one of the best locations for remote work, even with its high cost of living. The city’s energetic atmosphere fuels creativity and productivity, and its extensive public transit system makes it easy to get around without a car. While average rents hover around $3,000 and home values reach $700,000, many professionals see the investment as worthwhile.
With 88% of jobs supporting remote or hybrid work and countless co-working spaces available, it’s a prime spot for networking and career growth. The fast-paced environment keeps remote workers connected and inspired, making it an ideal place to thrive.
Concord, New Hampshire
Nestled in New England, this charming city offers a balanced lifestyle for remote workers. New Hampshire does not have a traditional income tax on wages or salaries, but it does have a 3% tax on interest and dividend income such as earnings from investments, Concord makes your salary stretch further.
New Hampshire does not have an estate tax or inheritance tax.
The median household income here is $64,925, and you can find reasonable housing with an average rent of $1,200 per month. Grab a coffee at local cafes or network at coworking spaces in town to boost productivity and meet similar professionals.
The quality of life in Concord is top-notch. Enjoy picturesque scenery and outdoor activities year-round. Internet connectivity is solid, so you won't struggle to stay connected during work hours.
Minneapolis, Minnesota
Minneapolis is a top choice for remote workers, offering strong internet connectivity, vibrant coworking spaces, and a solid job market—all at a more affordable cost than major coastal cities. The median household income is $63,590, and with average rent around $1,400 per month, remote workers find it a budget-friendly place to live.
Home values average about $315,000, making homeownership more attainable compared to other large metro areas.
The city also has a reliable public transit system, and a ton of coworking spaces, and widespread high-speed internet, ensuring convenience for remote professionals. With plenty of remote and hybrid job opportunities and a strong professional community, it’s easy to network and grow your career.
Beyond work, Minneapolis has a thriving arts scene that adds to its appeal. Many remote workers appreciate the creative energy and cultural diversity, making it a well-rounded place to live and work.
Louisville, Kentucky
Louisville is quickly becoming a top choice for remote workers, thanks to its low cost of living, reliable internet, and thriving professional scene. With average rent around $1,200 and home prices near $250,000, you get more space for your money without sacrificing quality of life. The city is packed with coworking spaces, cozy coffee shops, and strong Wi-Fi, making it easy to stay productive from anywhere.
Beyond work, Louisville offers a unique blend of Southern hospitality, a booming food and bourbon scene, and plenty of green spaces to explore. Remote workers here enjoy a laid-back lifestyle with big-city perks, without the big-city price tag.
Montpelier, Vermont
Montpelier, Vermont may be small, but it’s quickly becoming a hidden gem for remote workers. The city has a laid-back, charming vibe with a cost of living that’s a lot more affordable than in bigger cities.
Rent averages around $1,100 a month, and homes go for about $250,000, making it an easy choice for those looking for a quieter, more peaceful place to live.
Even though it’s on the smaller side, Montpelier has solid internet, cozy cafes, and a few coworking spaces that make it easy to stay productive. The remote job market is growing, and the tight-knit community means you’ll find networking opportunities and professional connections pretty quickly.
For those who want to balance work with some outdoor fun, Montpelier’s a dream. It’s surrounded by nature, with trails and parks that are perfect for unwinding after a day of work. Plus, the quality of life here is great, making it easy to enjoy a solid work-life balance without breaking the bank on living costs or a mortgage.
Atlanta, Georgia
What really sets Atlanta apart is its strong tech scene and remote-friendly work policies, attracting professionals from all industries. The median household income of $59,948 helps keep living expenses manageable, and with about 30% of the workforce telecommuting, it’s clear that remote work is deeply ingrained in the city’s culture.
This lively metropolis continues to draw millennials looking for a dynamic workplace culture and a high quality of life. Whether you're into the city’s arts scene, outdoor spaces, or its diverse food offerings, Atlanta provides the perfect blend of work and play.
It offers a nice balance of affordability without sacrificing city living.
San Antonio, Texas
San Antonio offers a great mix of affordability and opportunity for remote workers. With a median household income of $52,455, rent averaging around $1,050 per month, and homes priced at about $200,000, it’s a budget-friendly option compared to other major cities.
Ranked 7th in the U.S. for best internet access which is essential for remote work, San Antonio makes staying connected easy. The city’s vibrant culture and lower living costs are a big draw for remote professionals looking for a balanced lifestyle, especially with the younger workforce.
Coworking spaces are everywhere, offering excellent amenities and networking opportunities that keep you productive and connected without the isolation. It’s a great place to work and live without the hefty price tag.
Emerging Trends in Remote Work Locations
Small towns are quickly becoming popular spots for remote work, while urban areas are adapting to attract digital nomads by adding new amenities.
Rise of Small Cities and Towns
People are increasingly moving to smaller cities and towns, a shift driven by the rise of remote work. By 2025, it’s estimated that 32.6 million Americans, about 22% of the workforce will work remotely.
These quieter locales offer lower living costs, a better quality of life, and tight-knit communities. With high-speed internet widely available, remote workers can enjoy nature, local events, and shorter commutes while staying connected to their jobs.
Growth of Remote Work Amenities in Urban Areas
Urban areas are rapidly upgrading their amenities to cater to remote workers. New coworking spaces are popping up, providing professional environments where remote employees can thrive. Cities are prioritizing high-speed internet and cybersecurity, ensuring workers stay connected and safe.
Fitness centers, cafes, and wellness programs are also becoming more common, helping to balance work and relaxation that’s more likely RnR. Major cities, like New York, are leading the charge with coworking hubs offering networking opportunities and perks like free coffee.
Predictions on Infrastructure Developments
By 2025, cities will invest heavily in improving internet connectivity, with faster cable and fixed wireless options. Small towns are also stepping up, planning upgrades to support remote workers with better connectivity and more coworking spaces.
Economic incentives, like lower taxes and livability improvements, will encourage people to settle in these areas. Expect better public transportation and utilities, which will enhance quality of life and attract even more remote workers.
Changes in Remote Work Policies
As remote work continues to grow, policies will evolve to support more flexible schedules, including four-day workweeks. This shift benefits both employees and employers by boosting productivity and morale.
Companies will also focus on tailored benefits for remote workers, while stricter data privacy measures and enhanced cybersecurity will become essential. With 70% of the global workforce expected to work remotely at least part-time by 2025, the need for secure, flexible work environments will only increase over time.
Conclusion
Choosing the best remote work location can truly change your life. While the cities we've highlighted offer great benefits whether it's affordability, solid internet connection, strong job markets, or access to coworking spaces, it’s important to remember that securing the right remote job is the key to fully enjoying these locations.
The right job sets the foundation for your remote work journey. Jobsolv simplifies the process, helping you land a remote role that aligns with your lifestyle and work-life balance. With the right job in hand, you’ll be ready to make the most of the perfect remote work location that suits you.
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