The 10 best cities in America for remote workers next year
A new ranking highlights the U.S. cities offering the strongest mix of affordability and quality of life for remote workers
As we wrap up 2025 and eye the new year, remote work isn't just a trend—it's the new normal for millions of Americans. But ditching the office doesn't mean you have to sacrifice quality of life, blazing-fast internet, or affordable rent. According to a fresh report from CoworkingCafe, the best spots for digital nomads and WFH warriors blend strong economies, top-tier connectivity, and vibrant communities. Whether you're dreaming of mountain views or bustling urban vibes, these rankings highlight cities that make remote life not just workable, but *enjoyable*.
The methodology? CoworkingCafe crunched data from U.S. cities with populations over 200,000, scoring them on four pillars: economy (think median income and unemployment rates), remote work (coworking density and remote workforce share), connectivity (fiber coverage and public Wi-Fi), and infrastructure (walkability, entertainment options, and airport access). The result? A list that's equal parts practical and inspiring. Let's dive into the top 10 for 2026—ranked by overall performance—and why they might just be your next Zoom backdrop.
1. Atlanta, Georgia
Kicking off the list is the Peach State's powerhouse, Atlanta. With a whopping 25.6% of its workforce already remote, it's no surprise this city tops the charts. Boasting the highest density of coworking spaces in the nation, Atlanta makes collaboration a breeze—whether you're hopping between WeWork spots or indie cafes. Median income sits at $60,600, with average rent around $1,632 and a cost-of-living index below the national average. Pros? Attainably urban living with Southern charm. If traffic's your kryptonite, though, stick to the BeltLine for walkable escapes.
2. Frisco, Texas
Texas takes an early lead with Frisco, a Dallas suburb that's remote-work central. Here, 33.7% of residents are fully remote—the highest on the list—fueled by a solid network of coworking hubs. Median household income? A comfy $80,378, paired with below-average living costs and rents averaging $1,522. It's family-friendly with booming tech scenes, perfect for those balancing side hustles with school runs. Drawback: Summers are scorching, so invest in that AC.
3. Boulder, Colorado
For outdoor enthusiasts, Boulder's calling your name. Nearly 30% remote workforce, robust fiber internet, and excellent public Wi-Fi make it a connectivity dream. Unemployment is a low 3.4%, and the city's packed with entertainment from hiking trails to craft breweries. But fair warning: Average rent hits $2,043, thanks to that premium Rocky Mountain lifestyle. If you crave fresh air between meetings, this is your spot.
4. Cary, North Carolina
North Carolina's Cary shines with a 30.6% remote share and 60% fiber coverage, ensuring your video calls stay crystal clear. Median income clocks in at $75,215, with rents at $1,470 and an impressively low unemployment rate of 2.4%. It's a safe, green suburb with easy access to Raleigh's buzz—ideal for balanced living without the big-city hustle.
5. Sugar Land, Texas
Another Texas gem, Sugar Land, edges in with a ~24% remote workforce and 13.67 coworking spaces per 100,000 residents. Unemployment is just 2%, median income $65,424, and average rent $1,428—making it one of the most affordable on the list. Pros include accessible housing and a diverse food scene; it's Houston-adjacent without the chaos.
6. Carmel, Indiana
Indiana's Carmel offers Midwestern reliability with a 24.1% remote workforce, median income of $71,688, and rents around $1,451. Low unemployment and quick airport access make it a logistics win for frequent flyers. Think tree-lined streets, top schools, and artsy vibes—perfect for remote parents or creatives seeking calm.
7. Fishers, Indiana
Staying in Indiana, Fishers nabs seventh with 26.7% remote workers, the list's lowest unemployment rate, and rents at $1,389. Median income is $70,009, and the city's growing fast with parks, trails, and community events. It's attainable housing heaven, proving you don't need coastal prices for quality remote life.
## 8. Berkeley, California
California crashes the party at #8, where 31.5% of folks work remotely amid high walkability and 85 entertainment spots per capita. It's vibrant, intellectual, and full of cafes for impromptu brainstorms. But ouch—average rent is $2,765, reflecting those Bay Area costs. If you're in tech or academia, the inspiration might be worth the splurge.
9. Alexandria, Virginia
Just outside D.C., Alexandria lures with a high-earning remote crowd (median income $85,383) and 18.5 coworking spaces per 100,000 residents. Solid fiber coverage, 459 entertainment venues, and dual airport access sweeten the deal, though rents average $1,998. Pros: History, Potomac views, and policy-adjacent networking.
10. Denver, Colorado
Rounding out the list, Denver delivers with ~25% remote workers, 93 coworking spaces citywide, and top-tier fiber. High walkability, craft beer culture, and outdoor access make it a lifestyle pick, with rents at $1,731. It's pricier than some, but the Mile High energy keeps remote days dynamic.
Why These Cities? Trends Shaping Remote Work in 2026
What ties this list together? Affordability meets opportunity. Top cities like Frisco and Cary boast remote shares over 30%, while Indiana suburbs (Carmel and Fishers) dominate for low unemployment and cheap rents. Nationally, connectivity is king—fiber coverage and coworking density are non-negotiables. And don't sleep on quality-of-life perks: Walkable neighborhoods and entertainment options combat Zoom fatigue.
As hybrid models evolve, these rankings remind us that remote work thrives where life does too. Craving Southern hospitality or Colorado crisp? Pick your poison and pack your laptop. What's your dream remote city? Drop a comment below—let's chat!