What’s the best city in the United States for digital nomads?
The answer may surprise you!
According to a recent study from the real estate website Zumper, the top place for digital nomads in the U.S. is Columbus, Ohio.
This city was chosen based on a host of factors, including short-term rental prices, availability of restaurants and entertainment, ease of transportation, distance to the airport, WiFi speeds, and the overall cost of living.
Here’s why Columbus is a surprisingly awesome base for digital nomads in the United States:
1. It’s Affordable
One of the top reasons Columbus is a great place for digital nomads is because of the city’s affordability. Unlike some of the pricier cities that made it into the top ten on this ranking (like Chicago, Illinois and Portland, Oregon), Columbus is not an expensive place to live.
For digital nomads, monthly Airbnb and short-term rentals are very affordable.
You also won’t have to break the bank living in Columbus when it comes to restaurants, nightlife, and entertainment. Your money will go much further in Columbus than in many other cities in the U.S.
2. Tons Of Things To Do
Columbus is Ohio’s capital city, with a population that’s swiftly approaching one million. It’s a rapidly-growing metropolis with plenty to do.
The Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens and Columbus Museum of Art are two great places to check out if you’re interested in art and design, while North Market Downtown is a sprawling market that’s a must-visit for foodies.
You can pop into art galleries in the Short North Arts District, catch a show at Ohio Theatre, or stroll along the Scioto Mile, an urban park that follows the Ohio River.
3. It’s A College Town
Another thing that makes Columbus a great place for digital nomads is the fact that it’s a college town. Columbus is home to The Ohio State University, one of the largest public universities in the country.
The Ohio State campus gives the city a sense of vibrance and youthfulness. You’ll find lively coffee shops, independent bookstores, a thriving arts scene, and more throughout the city.
During the fall, it’s hard not to get caught up in the fever for college football, which is one of the biggest traditions at Ohio State.
4. Startup Atmosphere
Many major companies have headquarters or large offices in Columbus, but it’s also known for its rapidly-expanding tech industry and startup atmosphere.
Columbus is a city that is growing every year and it’s a great place to live or visit as a digital nomad thanks to this entrepreneurial spirit.
You’ll find lots of great co-working spaces and remote work-friendly cafes and coffee shops in Columbus. It’s a great place to meet and network with other entrepreneurs.
5. Diverse Neighborhoods
Columbus is one of the most diverse cities in the Midwest. There are plenty of great neighborhoods for digital nomads to choose from in Columbus.
Some of the most popular places to base yourself include the Short North Arts District, Italian Village, the Arena District, and German Village.
All of these neighborhoods will put you right in the heart of downtown Columbus with great dining, nightlife, entertainment, arts, and culture right at your doorstep. You can also enjoy city living at a fraction of the cost of other major cities in the U.S.
More Digital Nomad Hotspots In The U.S.
Looking for more ideas of where to live in the U.S. as a digital nomad?
Here are six more digital nomad hotspots in the United States to check out. And don’t miss the worst cities in the U.S. for digital nomads so you know what to avoid.
