As digital nomadism becomes a lifestyle choice for many, certain cities are emerging as magnets for remote professionals. The lifestyle itself is no longer just a trend; it’s becoming a way of life for freelancers, entrepreneurs, and remote employees who crave flexibility and adventure. In recent years, the digital nomad movement has exploded—there are now over 40 million digital nomads globally, with more than 18 million based in the United States alone.

From bustling urban hubs to quaint coastal towns, cities that cater to these needs—think co-working spaces, networking opportunities, and a dash of local charm—are becoming hotspots for this growing group of professionals. So, to determine 2025’s top cities for digital nomads, we analyzed 75 U.S. cities across four categories: costs, logistics, connectivity, and entertainment. Key factors included coworking space prices and density, cost of living, walk score, public WiFi availability, internet speed, and entertainment options.

The South dominates as a hotspot for digital nomads, with seven of the top 15 U.S. cities catering to remote professionals located in the region. Known for its affordability, warm climate, and thriving cultural hubs like Miami, Atlanta, and Orlando, the South has solidified its appeal among remote workers. Meanwhile, the West secures four spots, followed closely by the Midwest with three. The Northeast stands out with only one contender in our top 15: Pittsburgh, PA.

America’s New Work-Play Capitals: Here Are 2025's Best Cities for Digital Nomads

1. Miami, FL - 64.5 pts

Claiming the crown at #1, Miami is the ultimate all-in-one destination for digital nomads. It has the densest distribution of coworking spaces, 2.5 per sq. mile, offering plenty of options for remote workers to choose from. Plus, when it’s time to unwind, Miami doesn’t disappoint, boasting the highest entertainment density with 925 establishments per 100,000 residents. With a solid walk score of 76.6 — ranking seventh nationwide — and the best traveler accommodations density at 6.67 per sq. mile, Miami combines productivity with some serious fun in the sun. And when you're ready to venture further, Miami's international airport offers direct connections to South America, making it a perfect springboard for digital nomads eager to continue their travels.

2. Atlanta, GA - 60.3 pts

Sliding into second place, Atlanta, GA, is the perfect spot if you’re looking for a budget-friendly option without sacrificing excitement. It’s one of the most affordable cities for coworking spaces in our top 15, with an average cost of just $269 per month. Additionally, Atlanta’s Cost of Living Index is a low 98.2, making it friendly to your wallet. Entertainment options abound too, with 695 spots per 100,000 people, putting it in third place for this metric nationwide. When it comes to staying connected, the city ranks fifth in public WiFi density, with 150 hotspots per 100,000 residents. Affordable, fun and connected—Atlanta checks all the boxes.

3. San Francisco, CA - 54.4 pts

Landing in third, San Francisco is a techie’s dream city. Internet speeds here are lightning-fast, averaging 504.49 Mbps, ranking fifth in this category. Furthermore, it ranks second for traveler accommodations density at 6.06 per sq. mile and takes the top spot for walkability with a score of 88.7. Sure, coworking spaces are more on the pricier side at $470 per month and the Cost of Living Index is a high 170.8, but San Francisco’s cutting-edge vibe and incredible infrastructure make it a top-tier choice for those who want to be at the heart of innovation. Being so close to Silicon Valley means you’re always in a position to rub shoulders with the brains behind the next big thing—whether it’s chatting with startup founders at a local café, attending a cutting-edge tech meetup, or bumping into investors who could bring your own ideas to life.

4. Seattle, WA - 50.8 pts

Ranking fourth overall, Seattle is #1 in public WiFi density, with 175 hotspots per 100,000 residents, so you’ll never be without internet. The city also boasts an average of 511.9 Mbps, ranking third for this metric. Seattle offers a traveler accommodations density of 2.18 and 1.69 transit stations per sq. mile, ranking seventh nationwide for both metrics. And with the city being home to industry giants like Amazon and Microsoft, digital nomads can add networking opportunities to the list of reasons why Seattle is their next destination.

5. Minneapolis, MN - 50 pts

At number five, Minneapolis is like the cool friend who knows all the best deals. It has the lowest Cost of Living Index on the top 15 list at 93.7. Accommodations won’t be difficult to find, with Minneapolis boasting 2.46 such spots per sq. mile. The city’s entertainment density is solid, with 591 establishments per 100,000 people, putting it in eighth place for this metric. While public WiFi density is moderate at 68 hotspots per 100,000 residents, Minneapolis makes up for it with reliable internet speeds of 414.88 Mbps. Affordable and packed with charm, Minneapolis is a smart pick for those watching their budget.

6. Pittsburgh, PA - 49.8 pts

Sliding into sixth place, Pittsburgh is where affordability meets fun vibes. This city knows how to deliver on fun, with 688 places to explore per 100,000 people, ranking fourth in entertainment density. Whether you’re into museums, local breweries, or quirky cafes, Pittsburgh has something for everyone. On top of that, it’s a wallet-friendly choice, with a Cost of Living Index of 98.4 and coworking spaces averaging just $250 a month.

7. Orlando, FL - 49.3 pts

Coming in at #7, Orlando, FL brings the sunshine and the good vibes for digital nomads. Known for its theme parks and world-class attractions, Orlando ranks third for traveler accommodations, with 2.72 options per sq. mile, perfect for short-term stays. Love having plenty to do? The city ranks second for entertainment density with 874 spots to eat, drink and unwind—there’s always something happening here. The walk score of 41.1 isn’t ideal, but Orlando makes up for it with plenty of coworking spaces at $355 per month, which won’t break the bank. Between the warm weather, endless activities and affordable coworking options, Orlando makes working remotely feel like a vacation.

8. Denver, CO - 47.1 pts

In eighth place, Denver is carving a niche as a haven for digital nomads, offering a top-10 public WiFi network nationwide with 110 hotspots per 100,000 residents. The city’s coworking costs, ranked #21 nationwide at $299/month, are an attractive option for budget-conscious nomads. While its entertainment scene of 445 establishments per 100,000 residents, is more subdued, the city’s proximity to the Rockies and its internet speed of 452 Mbps make it a well-rounded choice for remote professionals seeking work-life balance.

9. Houston, TX - 46.5 pts

Houston is a hotspot—literally—for digital nomads who want to keep things affordable and well-connected. With 133 public WiFi hotspots per 100,000 residents, it ranks seventh for public WiFi density, so staying online is a breeze whether you’re in a park or a coffee shop. Coworking spaces here are a steal at just $274 a month, making Houston a dream for budget-conscious nomads as it ranks 26th in affordability nationwide. And no need to worry about sluggish connections; Houston’s internet speeds average 458.8 Mbps, keeping your Zoom meetings and uploads running smoothly.

10. Las Vegas, NV - 46.4 pts

Las Vegas secures tenth place, as the ultimate playground for digital nomads who crave excitement and affordability. With 669 entertainment spots per 100,000 residents, it ranks fifth for entertainment density, so there’s always something happening—whether it’s live shows, trendy bars, or quirky cafes. Internet speeds here are no gamble either, averaging a solid 439.1 Mbps, ranking15th nationwide, so you can work seamlessly between adventures. While coworking spaces are less common, with just 0.45 per sq. mile (ranked 16th), Las Vegas makes up for it with a strong public WiFi network and endless opportunities to mix business with pleasure.

11. Chicago, IL - 46 pts

Chicago offers the perfect mix of big-city energy and digital convenience, making it eleventh on our list of cities for remote workers. Need to stay connected? No problem—Chicago ranks second for public WiFi density, with 165 hotspots per 100,000 residents, so you can work from just about anywhere. The city’s walk score of 77.2 makes it easy to explore its lively neighborhoods filled with art, culture, and amazing food. Coworking spaces are moderately available, with 0.48 per sq. mile (14th place), and cost a reasonable $308 per month.

12. Tampa, FL - 43.8 pts

Tampa, Florida is the laid-back, budget-friendly escape every digital nomad dreams of. With coworking spaces costing an average of just $269 per month (14th in affordability), it’s easy on the wallet while still offering plenty of charm. Public WiFi access is solid too, with 69 hotspots per 100,000 residents, and internet speeds are relatively reliable at 355.3 Mbps. Although its walk score of 49.5 means you might need wheels to get around, Tampa’s mix of affordability, warm weather, and vibrant atmosphere makes it a great spot for remote workers to set up shop.

13. Washington, D.C. - 43.6 pts

Washington, D.C. is a digital nomad’s dream if staying connected and inspired is at the top of your list. With a walk score of 76.7 (sixth place), it’s easy to wander through the city’s historic streets, iconic landmarks, and vibrant neighborhoods—all without breaking a sweat. D.C. also ranks 10th in public WiFi density, boasting 110 hotspots per 100,000 residents, so reliable connectivity is never far away. And when it comes to speed, D.C. delivers lightning-fast internet averaging 496 Mbps, putting it in sixth place for this metric. Coworking spaces are on the pricier side at $410 per month, but the city’s blend of intellectual energy, cultural attractions, and professional vibe makes it a truly inspiring spot to work and explore.

14. Cincinnati, OH - 42.9 pts

Cincinnati, Ohio brings a lively, budget-friendly vibe to the digital nomad scene. Ranking sixth in entertainment density, the city offers 657 spots per 100,000 residents for foodies, art lovers, and thrill-seekers alike—perfect for recharging after a productive workday. Coworking spaces are a bargain here, averaging just $264 per month, making Cincinnati 13th for affordability. While its walk score of 49.1 might not make it the most pedestrian-friendly city, there’s still plenty to explore if you’re up for a stroll. Internet speeds, at 293.2 Mbps, are slower compared to other cities, but Cincinnati’s vibrant cultural scene and wallet-friendly living make it a smart choice for remote workers seeking a fun, affordable place to thrive.

15. Dallas, TX - 42.7 pts

Rounding out our top 15, Dallas, TX, is a haven for digital nomads who value blazing-fast internet and affordable living. With lightning speeds averaging 543.6 Mbps (ranked second nationwide), Dallas ensures your online work and streaming are as smooth as it gets. The city also ranks ninth for public WiFi density, with 115 hotspots per 100,000 residents, so staying connected on the go is easy. Coworking spaces are budget-friendly too, averaging $319 per month, ranking 26th for affordability, making it easy to find a productive space without overspending. While coworking density is on the lower side, with 0.24 spaces per sq. mile, and entertainment options are scarcer, Dallas more than makes up for it with its strong focus on connectivity, affordability, and a thriving tech scene. For remote workers who prioritize efficiency and value, Dallas is a top pick.

Methodology

The total score was calculated using the following data points and weighting:

• Cost of Living Index: Cost of Living Index for Q1 2024.
  Source: C2ER (https://www.coli.org/, 2024) – Weight: 15%
• Traveler accommodations density: Number of traveler accommodations per square mile (NAICS code "7211").
  Source: Census Business Patterns 2022 (https://www.census.gov/data/datasets/2022/econ/cbp/2022-cbp.html) – Weight: 15%
• Public WiFi density: Number of free public WiFi hotspots available per 100,000 residents.
  Source: Various (e.g., WiFi hotspots in cafes, airports, etc., 2024) – Weight: 15%
• Entertainment establishments density: Number of entertainment establishments per 100,000 residents, including performing arts, museums, amusement parks, restaurants, and drinking places.
  Source: Census Business Patterns 2022 (https://www.census.gov/data/datasets/2022/econ/cbp/2022-cbp.html) – Weight: 15%
• Costs of coworking spaces - dedicated desks: Median prices of coworking spaces for dedicated desks, monthly.
  Source: Our Database (extracted October 2024) – Weight: 10%
• Internet average speed: Average internet speed in each city.
  Source: BroadbandNow (https://broadbandnow.com/, 2024) – Weight: 10%
• Coworking space density: Number of coworking spaces per square mile.
  Source: Shared Space Inventory (November 2024) – Weight: 10%
• Walk Score: Measures walkability based on proximity to amenities and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure.
  Source: Walk Score (https://www.walkscore.com/cities-and-neighborhoods/, 2021) – Weight: 5%
• Stations density: Number of bus and rail stations per square mile.
  Source: Transit Statistics – American Public Transportation Association – Weight: 5%