The rise of remote work has changed the way we live—and where we live.
With a laptop, strong Wi-Fi, and a flexible schedule, lots of people are leaving high-cost cities and office cubicles behind in search of new places to live, work, and thrive.
So where are the best places in the U.S. for remote work? And what should you look for before you pack your bags?
This guide explores the top cities for remote workers in 2025, based on affordability, lifestyle, internet speeds, coworking scenes, and quality of life.
Whether you’re a freelancer, remote employee, or digital nomad, we’ll help you find your next home base—and show you how Compass Furnished Apartments makes remote life even easier.
Why More People Are Working Remotely Than Ever Before
Remote work is clearly not a trend—it’s turned out to be a long-term shift that gives professionals more freedom to choose where they live.
In fact, 98% of workers want to work remotely at least some of the time—and 65% would even take a pay cut to do so, according to a 2024 report by StrongDM.
The benefits of remote work:
- Lower cost of living outside major metro hubs
- More time for family, hobbies, and wellness
- Greater flexibility in work schedules
- Opportunities to explore new cities and communities
But not every city is equally remote-work friendly. Let’s take a look at what makes a great place to work remotely.
What Makes a City Remote-Work Friendly?
Before you choose your next home base, think beyond the usual vacation checklist. A remote-work-friendly city should give you more than just sunny weather or scenic views.
Key factors to consider:
- Fast, reliable internet: Non-negotiable for Zoom calls, uploads, and remote collaboration.
- Affordable housing: Cities where your rent doesn’t eat your paycheck.
- Coworking spaces and coffee shops: Great spots to work, network, and build community.
- Outdoor access and quality of life: Green space, trails, and weekend adventures matter.
- Time zone alignment: If your team is on the East Coast, moving to Hawaii might be tricky.
- Short-term housing options: Try out a city without committing long term. (That’s where Compass comes in.)
Best Cities for Remote Work in 2025
From tech hubs to hidden gems, here are our top picks for remote work in the U.S.
1. Austin, TX
A creative, tech-savvy city with no state income tax and a huge remote worker population. Austin has fast Wi-Fi, great music, and a laid-back lifestyle.
- Cost of living: Moderate
- Coworking scene: Capital Factory, WeWork, and tons of indie spots
- Why it works: Vibrant culture, warm weather, strong startup scene
2. Boulder, CO
For nature lovers and entrepreneurs, Boulder offers a mix of mountain views and innovation. It’s one of the healthiest and most bikeable cities in the country.
- Cost of living: High, but with quality-of-life perks
- Coworking scene: Galvanize, Kiln, Impact Hub
- Why it works: Outdoor access + startup energy
3. Nashville, TN
Known for its music, Nashville is also becoming a southern hotspot for tech and healthcare. Bonus: Tennessee has no state income tax.
- Cost of living: Lower than major cities
- Coworking scene: Launch Pad, WeWork, Industrious
- Why it works: Affordable, lively, and great food
4. Raleigh, NC
Raleigh is part of the Research Triangle and attracts talent in tech, biotech, and education. It has a low cost of living, mild climate, and strong sense of community.
- Cost of living: Low
- Coworking scene: HQ Raleigh, Loading Dock
- Why it works: Affordable, educated, and family-friendly
5. Boston, MA (Compass Property Available)
Boston blends historic charm with cutting-edge innovation. It’s a hub for education, healthcare, and tech—and one of Compass Furnished Apartments’ flagship cities.
- Cost of living: High, but with high earning potential
- Coworking scene: Workbar, CIC, Cambridge Innovation Center
- Why it works: Access to top companies and world-class amenities
- Where to stay: Compass Furnished Apartments in Boston
6. New Haven, CT (Compass Property Available)
Home to Yale University, New Haven is a smart, affordable, and surprisingly cool small city with a strong arts scene and easy access to NYC.
- Cost of living: Lower than Boston or NYC
- Coworking scene: District New Haven
- Why it works: Academic, affordable, walkable
- Where to stay: Compass Furnished Apartments in New Haven
7. Stamford, CT (Compass Property Available)
Just outside of New York City, Stamford is a popular choice for remote professionals who want access to the city without living in it. It’s a corporate hub with a more relaxed vibe.
- Cost of living: Moderate
- Coworking scene: Serendipity Labs, Workpoint
- Why it works: NYC access, strong job market, good schools
- Where to stay: Compass Furnished Apartments in Stamford
8. Seattle, WA
Seattle is a remote work powerhouse with major employers like Amazon, Microsoft, and dozens of startups. It also has great coffee and beautiful scenery.
- Cost of living: High
- Coworking scene: The Pioneer Collective, Industrious
- Why it works: Tech jobs, great food, mountain views
9. Portland, OR
Portland offers creativity, a thriving remote work community, and easy access to nature. It also ranks well for bike-friendliness and sustainability.
- Cost of living: Moderate
- Coworking scene: CENTRL Office, NedSpace
- Why it works: Culture, coffee, and forest hikes
10. Salt Lake City, UT
Clean, affordable, and full of opportunity, Salt Lake City has a growing tech sector and stunning natural surroundings.
- Cost of living: Low
- Coworking scene: Kiln, Impact Hub
- Why it works: Affordable housing, outdoor access
11. Providence, RI
A creative, coastal city with a strong art and design community, Providence is an underrated remote work gem.
- Cost of living: Lower than Boston or NYC
- Coworking scene: Sprout CoWorking
- Why it works: Walkable, affordable, full of charm
Tips for Choosing Your Next Remote Work City
Choosing a new city is exciting, but it helps to do some planning.
Ask yourself:
- Do I want an urban or small-town vibe?
- Is the climate something I can handle year-round?
- How close do I want to be to friends, family, or airports?
- What’s the community like for remote workers or creatives?
Pro tip: Try before you commit.
Use short-term rentals to get a feel for a place before signing a year-long lease. Compass Furnished Apartments offers fully furnished, move-in-ready homes so you can test drive a city while working remotely.
Why Compass Is Ideal for Remote Workers
Remote workers need more than just a desk. You need a place that feels like home—and works like an office.
Here’s why Compass is perfect for your remote lifestyle:
- Fully furnished apartments with stylish, functional designs
- Reliable, high-speed internet for work calls and uploads
- Dedicated workspaces so you can separate work and rest
- Flexible lease terms that fit your travel plans
- Properties in remote-work-friendly cities across MA, CT, and NY
- On-site amenities like gyms, lounges, and parking
Whether you’re testing out a new city or moving long-term, we make remote living easy and comfortable.
Ready to live and work from somewhere new? Explore Compass Furnished Apartments.
Work From Anywhere—But Make it Work for You
Remote work opens the door to new adventures—but the key is choosing a city that supports your lifestyle and goals. Whether you’re drawn to mountain towns, vibrant metros, or coastal gems, the right location can boost both your productivity and happiness.
And when you’re ready to try a new city, Compass Furnished Apartments gives you the flexibility to explore without the hassle of a long-term lease.
Discover your next favorite city. Browse our properties and find your home base for remote success.
About The Author
Lauren
Lauren, a passionate marketing professional from Vancouver, Canada, has an insatiable love for travel. Whether it’s camping off the grid in a secluded forest or enjoying the bustling streets of Manhattan, New York, she embraces every adventure with enthusiasm.