What are the best cities for remote work in the U.S.?

This post addresses several key concerns and priorities for remote workers when choosing a city to live in. It highlights internet speed and connectivity, crucial for ensuring smooth work operations, alongside housing costs, which often constitute the largest expense. The cost of living (COLI) and monthly average expenses are detailed to provide a clear picture of financial requirements. Safety and crime rates are included, with violent and property crime statistics and a safety rating to assess personal and property security. The post also emphasizes lifestyle and amenities, such as cultural activities, outdoor attractions, and entertainment options, while considering accessibility and location for proximity to transportation hubs and regional attractions. Additionally, it touches on employment opportunities, important for those seeking local economic activity or side gigs, as well as community and networking opportunities for socializing or co-working spaces. Finally, it evaluates family-friendliness, featuring cities with good schools, safe neighborhoods, and green spaces, making it a comprehensive guide for remote workers.

Discover the best U.S. cities for remote work with insights on internet speed, cost of living, housing, safety, and lifestyle. Compare expenses and find your perfect work-from-home destination! To explore remote work opportunities, visit gigagiglet.blogspot.com."

1. Austin, Texas

• Internet Speed: Average 90 Mbps, with gigabit options.
• Housing: Median home price: $450,000; Rent: $1,700 (1-bedroom).
• Cost of Living Index (COLI): 118 (18% higher than the national average of 100).
• Monthly Average Expenses: $3,000–$3,300.
• Crime Rates (per 1,000): Violent: 4.14, Property: 33.05 (higher property crime rate than average).
• Safety Rating: 6/10.
• Lifestyle: Bustling cultural and tech hub, but some neighborhoods may have higher petty crime rates.

2. Denver, Colorado

• Internet Speed: Average 100+ Mbps.
• Housing: Median home price: $570,000; Rent: $1,800 (1-bedroom).
• Cost of Living Index (COLI): 127 (27% higher than the national average of 100).
• Monthly Average Expenses: $3,200–$3,600.
• Crime Rates (per 1,000): Violent: 4.57, Property: 35.95 (above national averages).
• Safety Rating: 5.5/10.
• Lifestyle: Vibrant urban life, though downtown areas may have higher crime levels.

3. Raleigh, North Carolina

• Internet Speed: Average 80 Mbps.
• Housing: Median home price: $390,000; Rent: $1,300 (1-bedroom).
• Cost of Living Index (COLI): 94 (6% lower than the national average of 100).
• Monthly Average Expenses: $2,400–$2,700.
• Crime Rates (per 1,000): Violent: 2.85, Property: 21.35 (below national averages).
• Safety Rating: 8/10.
• Lifestyle: Safe and family-friendly, with a mix of suburban and urban living.

4. Salt Lake City, Utah

• Internet Speed: Gigabit widely available; average 110 Mbps.
• Housing: Median home price: $530,000; Rent: $1,500 (1-bedroom).
• Cost of Living Index (COLI): 115 (15% higher than the national average of 100).
• Monthly Average Expenses: $2,800–$3,100.
• Crime Rates (per 1,000): Violent: 4.85, Property: 45.20 (higher property crime rate than average).
• Safety Rating: 6/10.
• Lifestyle: Proximity to nature, though property crime is a concern in urban areas.

5. Kansas City, Missouri

• Internet Speed: Gigabit speeds via Google Fiber.
• Housing: Median home price: $250,000; Rent: $1,000 (1-bedroom).
• Cost of Living Index (COLI): 86 (14% lower than the national average of 100).
• Monthly Average Expenses: $2,000–$2,300.
• Crime Rates (per 1,000): Violent: 7.34, Property: 44.15 (well above national averages).
• Safety Rating: 4.5/10.
• Lifestyle: Affordable but requires caution in certain neighborhoods.

6. Portland, Oregon

• Internet Speed: Reliable high-speed internet averaging 70 Mbps.
• Housing: Median home price: $525,000; Rent: $1,700 (1-bedroom).
• Cost of Living Index (COLI): 130 (30% higher than the national average of 100).
• Monthly Average Expenses: $3,200–$3,600.
• Crime Rates (per 1,000): Violent: 5.26, Property: 52.20 (high property crime rate).
• Safety Rating: 5/10.
• Lifestyle: Cultural hub with some safety concerns, especially downtown.

7. Boise, Idaho

• Internet Speed: Average 85 Mbps with gigabit options.
• Housing: Median home price: $400,000; Rent: $1,200 (1-bedroom).
• Cost of Living Index (COLI): 94 (6% lower than the national average of 100).
• Monthly Average Expenses: $2,300–$2,600.
• Crime Rates (per 1,000): Violent: 2.11, Property: 17.22 (significantly lower than national averages).
• Safety Rating: 9/10.
• Lifestyle: Extremely safe, family-friendly, and close to nature.

8. Chattanooga, Tennessee

• Internet Speed: Gigabit speeds are the norm.
• Housing: Median home price: $325,000; Rent: $1,000 (1-bedroom).
• Cost of Living Index (COLI): 89 (11% lower than the national average of 100).
• Monthly Average Expenses: $2,100–$2,400.
• Crime Rates (per 1,000): Violent: 6.02, Property: 36.45 (higher than average).
• Safety Rating: 6/10.
• Lifestyle: Affordable, but certain areas require caution.

9. Madison, Wisconsin

• Internet Speed: Average 85 Mbps.
• Housing: Median home price: $365,000; Rent: $1,300 (1-bedroom).
• Cost of Living Index (COLI): 96 (4% lower than the national average of 100).
• Monthly Average Expenses: $2,400–$2,700.
• Crime Rates (per 1,000): Violent: 2.85, Property: 21.90 (below national averages).
• Safety Rating: 8/10.
• Lifestyle: Safe, with college-town energy and cultural attractions.

10. San Diego, California

• Internet Speed: Average 100 Mbps with gigabit options.
• Housing: Median home price: $850,000; Rent: $2,400 (1-bedroom).
• Cost of Living Index (COLI): 160 (60% higher than the national average of 100).
• Monthly Average Expenses: $4,200–$4,700.
• Crime Rates (per 1,000): Violent: 3.77, Property: 23.05 (slightly below national averages).
• Safety Rating: 7.5/10.
• Lifestyle: Beautiful weather, scenic living, and relatively safe.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this post is based on general data and estimates, including cost of living, crime rates, and average expenses, which may vary depending on individual circumstances, lifestyle choices, and recent changes. Readers are advised to conduct their own research and consult local resources for the most accurate and up-to-date information before making decisions.