Remote Work Increases in the US During Pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic has increased remote work in the United States. The Census Bureau reported that the percentage of people primarily working from home tripled from 5.7% to 17.9% between 2019 and 2021. The American Community Survey (ACS) revealed that almost 50% of workers in the District of Columbia worked from home, the highest percentage of remote workers in US territories.
Remote Work Advantages
Despite many companies returning to face-to-face work, many workers prefer the option of remote work due to its advantages. Remote work provides workers with flexibility, saves commuting time and expenses, and enhances work-life balance.
Best Cities for Remote Work in the US
Rental search engines Rent.com and Zumper published their rankings of the best cities for remote workers or “digital nomads” in the United States. Rent.com analyzed the median rent and year-over-year rent change, internet access and average Internet speeds, population of Remote work, and number of coworking spaces. Zumper considered short-term rental prices, cost of living, distance to the airport, air quality, availability of entertainment and restaurants, transportation options, and free Wi-Fi access.
According to Rent.com, the top 10 best cities for remote work are Orlando, Florida; Austin, Texas; North Charleston, South Carolina; Grand Rapids, Michigan; Columbus, Georgia; Atlanta, Georgia; Green Bay, Wisconsin; Houston, Texas; Raleigh, North Carolina; and Appleton, Wisconsin. According to Zumper, the top 10 cities for remote work are Columbus, Ohio; Portland, Oregon; Kansas City, Missouri; Houston, Texas; St Louis, Missouri; Chicago, Illinois; Cincinnati, Ohio; San Antonio, Texas; Detroit, Michigan; and Denver, Colorado.
Conclusion
Remote work has been increasing in the US during the pandemic and many workers prefer the flexibility and advantages of remote work. Rent.com and Zumper have published their rankings of the best cities for remote work, which can be helpful for those seeking to work remotely.
