Most Remote Places in the US: Hidden Gems for Digital Nomads
Are you a digital nomad craving a change of scenery? Do you fancy typing away surrounded by breathtaking landscapes or unwinding in quirky local joints after a productive day? You’re in luck because we’ve scoured the US to find the kind of places that redefine “remote.”
Whether you’re a caffeine-fueled coder or a creative soul seeking inspiration, these spots offer more than just a desk and Wi-Fi. Read on for our top picks: 7 of the most remote places in the US, tailor-made for your next chapter of remote work and adventure.
1. Marfa, Texas
Median internet download speed: 50 Mbps
Nestled in West Texas’s Chihuahuan Desert, Marfa is a mix of art, culture, and tranquility. With a moderate cost of living, this eclectic town attracts digital nomads seeking a unique escape.
Here, you can unwind in coffee shops or bars popular among fellow nomads. Marfa’s minimalist art installations, set against the desert backdrop, create an inspiring atmosphere that sparks creativity.
If you crave a place where costs are reasonable, culture is rich, and landscapes are as open as your possibilities, you might want to chalk down Marfa as the hidden gem for your next adventure.
2. Eureka Springs, Arkansas
Median rent: $800
Median internet download speed: 40 Mbps
The small town of Eureka Springs is located in the Ozark Mountains, Arkansas ― a charming historic town with Victorian architecture, lush landscapes, and a vibrant arts scene. Digital nomads often find cozy coffee shops and artistic coworking spaces ideal for work.
This digital nomads’ oasis, with its affordable living cost, welcomes remote workers into a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature’s beauty. And the job market is waking up to the remote revolution here with job search platforms like Indeed and ZipRecruiter showcasing a range of opportunities, from customer service to sales and data entry.
3. Traverse City, Michigan
Median rent: $1,000
Median internet download speed: 60 Mbps
Traverse City, Michigan, is a waterfront haven for digital nomads. Known for its natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and vibrant food and wine scene, this hidden gem is custom-made for remote workers much like yourself.
Apart from being a charming town, living costs are reasonable here, and there’s speedy internet to enhance your remote work experience.
But that’s not all.
Opportunities for remote jobs are plentiful, with new ones continuously popping up. In a nutshell, Traverse City should be on your radar if you’re a digital nomad seeking a new scene.
4. Bisbee, Arizona
Median internet download speed: 50 Mbps
Tucked away in the Mule Mountains of southeast Arizona and surrounded by well-preserved historical architecture, Bisbee is a unique town with a thriving arts, music, and hospitality scene.
Bisbee has a rich history as one of the world’s richest mineral sites, thanks to its copper mining industry. Nowadays, the town’s unconventional and artistic atmosphere, combined with its natural surroundings, make it an attractive destination for visitors seeking a creative environment to live and work.
The living costs here are pretty reasonable, and some local initiatives actively support digital nomads, ensuring reliable access to high-speed internet.
5. Asheville, North Carolina
Median rent: $1,200
Median internet download speed: 60 Mbps
Asheville, North Carolina, is famous for its one-of-a-kind natural beauty, with a lively arts scene and rich cultural experiences. The city is enveloped by awe-inspiring landscapes, including the majestic Great Smoky Mountains and Blue Ridge, making it a paradise for outdoor lovers.
The digital nomad lifestyle is flourishing in Asheville, with its supportive community and coworking spaces making it an appealing option for those wanting a mix of work and play.
Keep in mind, though, that the cost of living is a bit on the higher side here. That said, the town offers reliable, high-speed internet, making it easy for remote workers to stay connected and work smoothly.
6. Bend, Oregon
Median internet download speed: 60 Mbps
In the heart of Central Oregon, Bend offers a captivating mix of nature and vibrant energy for digital nomads. It’s a fantastic playground for outdoor enthusiasts — think mountain trails, alpine lakes, and ancient volcanic wonders, all framed by the stunning Cascade Mountain Range.
The city provides a tech-friendly environment, ensuring reliable internet connectivity and other essentials for smooth remote work.
Now, truth be told, living costs are a bit on the high side in Bend, but with the city’s natural allure and the tech-friendly atmosphere for a well-rounded lifestyle, this location is a compelling choice for those seeking a balance between work and play.
7. Taos, New Mexico
Median rent: $1,000
Median internet download speed: 45 Mbps
Surrounded by stunning landscapes like the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Taos in New Mexico is an attractive destination for visitors and digital nomads, thanks to its natural beauty and supportive community.
Here, you’ll find quite a number of museums and art galleries that tell the story of the town’s rich cultural heritage. For digital nomads, Taos opens doors to coworking spaces and vibrant meetups, creating hubs for networking and socializing.
With a moderate cost of living and a dependable internet connection, the town is an enticing haven for those seeking a blend of work and leisure against a backdrop of picturesque landscapes and a supportive community.
Quick Tips for Navigating Remote Work in Hidden US Gems
- Check Internet Connectivity: As you already know, remote work success depends largely on reliable internet connectivity. So, it is best to research local providers and coworking spaces to ensure you’ll stay connected without interruptions before packing your bags.
- Research the Living Cost: Beyond the allure of landscapes, get a good grasp on the cost of living. Seek a balance between affordability and quality of life, ensuring your budget aligns with the local economy.
- Find Local Workspace: Scout for local coworking spaces or comfortable cafes with a conducive work environment that boosts creativity.
- Factor in the Time Zone: If you are collaborating with a team in a different region, it’s usually a good idea to choose a location that aligns with your work hours to minimize disruptions and facilitate better collaboration and real-time communication.
- Consider Safety: Find out the destination’s safety standards and any travel advisories. You want to pick a relatively secure location for your remote work, as that will ensure peace of mind for both work and play.
- Prioritize Health and Travel Insurance: Ensure coverage for medical emergencies and unexpected travel disruptions. Consider options like SafetyWing, a global travel medical insurance for digital nomads. A safety net for unforeseen circumstances ensures a worry-free remote work experience.
- Consider the Climate: Before you book your flight, check the climate of your chosen location to be sure it aligns with your preferences and won’t impact your productivity. A comfortable work environment is key to a successful remote endeavor.
Final Thoughts
Remember, the most remote places in the US are not just pins on a map, and finding an ideal spot goes beyond internet speeds and living costs. You want to choose a location that aligns with your vibe, fuels your creativity, and allows you to thrive.
Consider the local community, support for remote work, and overall atmosphere. Each remote gem has its flavor, so find the one that resonates with your nomadic spirit.
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