20 Best Cities for Remote Workers

There’s no question that there’s been a shift toward remote work. For many, it was no choice at the start of the pandemic, but a full-stop return to the office is not likely going to happen. Remote work is here for the long haul, and for those considering a new home base for your remote lifestyle, we’ve got you covered.

LawnStarter set out to identify the best US cities for remote workers. They looked at factors like median incomes, crime rates and cost of living, as well as accessibility to co-working spaces, high-speed internet connectivity, even food delivery services. Here is the ranked list of the top US cities for laptop-toting remote workers.

Portland is unique. Some say weird, and by many accounts, the town wants to keep it that way. Portland is known for its beer, its donuts, Portlandia, and much more, like its abundance of green spaces and its famous White Stag sign, which is one of the city’s most beloved landmarks. Portland is also known for being a no sales tax state, which is an easy quality to love whether you work from home or in an office. Portland’s got a serious coffee culture, too, so be ready to plant yourself at Case Study Coffee Roasters or Tov Coffee for your next Zoom call.

Just 30 minutes north of Dallas is Carrollton, Texas. It’s close to larger-than-life Dallas, but, you know, not too close. For some, Carrollton feels worlds away with its vast green spaces and quaint historic district. There’s a lot to do without leaving town, too, like birding at Elm Fork Nature Preserve and cooling off at Oak Hills Splash Park. At Sam Houston Trail Park, a 22-mile path along the Trinity River is perfect for a walk, a bike ride or a stroll with your pup. In the historic district, bring your laptop to work for a few hours at Lemma Coffee Co.

Fort Wayne is a safe, affordable Midwest city with great public schools and plenty of outdoor recreation options. At Promenade Park, take in a concert at the Sweetwater Bandshell or sail away on a replica canal boat called the Sweet Breeze. You can also rent a kayak or canoe from Fort Wayne Outfitters to get out on the water. Public art is popular in Fort Wayne as new murals are added each month to beautify public downtown spaces. To date, there are more than 150 murals and sculptures along the city’s Public Art Trail.