Escaping the Space Needle's Shadow: 5 Unexpected Remote Work Paradises
By Natalia Wolting • Sep 10, 2024 UTC
Seattle, Washington, with its vibrant tech scene, stunning natural beauty and progressive vibe - has long been a magnet for young professionals. However, for remote workers, Seattle's soaring cost of living and competitive housing market can be daunting. Fortunately, several exciting cities are offering a similar flavor to Seattle, minus the hefty price tag. Let's explore five communities perfect for your remote work lifestyle:
1. Manchester, New Hampshire: A Charming Alternative with a Storied Past
Manchester, New Hampshire, exudes a small-town charm with big-city amenities. A thriving arts scene, with renowned museums like the Currier Museum of Art and a lively theater district, keeps life culturally rich. Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to explore, from hiking trails in the nearby White Mountains to kayaking on the Merrimack River. The city is set among historic brick buildings and boasts a strong sense of community, with farmers markets, breweries and local shops lining the streets.
Manchester's median home price is nearly half of Seattle's. (Photo Credit: Home & Money)
Remote Work Perks
- Affordable Living - Compared to Seattle, Manchester offers significantly lower housing costs and a lower overall cost of living. The median home price in Manchester is almost half when compared to Seattle.
- Fast Internet - The city prioritizes high-speed internet access, making it a reliable haven for remote workers.
- Coworking Spaces - While not as saturated as Seattle, Manchester has a growing network of coworking spaces, providing dedicated workspace and networking opportunities.
2. Vancouver, British Columbia: Nature's Playground with Urban Flair
Vancouver, Canada, seamlessly blends stunning natural beauty with cosmopolitan vibrancy. Nestled between towering mountains and the Pacific Ocean, Vancouver offers a plethora of outdoor activities, from skiing in Whistler to kayaking in Stanley Park. The city itself boasts a diverse and multicultural population, reflected in its international cuisine, vibrant festivals and thriving art scene.
Vancouver's location makes travel to the U.S. convenient. (Photo Credit: Visit Seattle)
Remote Work Perks
- Thriving Tech Hub - Vancouver is a major tech hub in North America, with a large pool of remote workers and a supportive ecosystem.
- Stunning Scenery - Whether you crave mountain hikes or ocean views, Vancouver offers a constant dose of natural inspiration right outside your window.
- Proximity to the U.S. - For those who desire occasional trips south, Vancouver's proximity to the U.S. border makes travel convenient.
3. South Bend, Indiana: Rejuvenation and Affordability
South Bend, Indiana, is undergoing a renaissance. Once known primarily for its manufacturing past, the city is embracing innovation and attracting young professionals. The University of Notre Dame fosters a vibrant intellectual atmosphere, while the historic Studebaker National Museum and Morris Civic Theatre offer a glimpse into the city's rich history. South Bend boasts a lower cost of living compared to Seattle, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious remote workers.
MakeMyMove offers remote workers a 1 year social membership to Momentum SB as part of their incentive package.
Remote Work Perks:
- MakeMyMove Program - South Bend participates in the MakeMyMove program, offering relocation incentives and benefits to remote workers who choose to relocate to the city. The incentives include 5,000 in cash, a one-year social membership to Momentum SB and $6,000 worth of regional benefits such as a chocolate factory tour and airline vouchers.
- Revitalized Downtown - The city's downtown area is undergoing a revitalization with new restaurants, bars and local shops attracting residents and visitors alike.
- Low Cost of Living - South Bend offers significantly lower housing costs and a lower overall cost of living when compared to Seattle. A recent mover to the area Elio, says that South Bend’s low cost of living is one of the things that prompted him to move there. “Even if you make six figures in Seattle, there are a lot of dual-income households that make twice as much and I knew that I wouldn’t be able to afford a home there,” says Elio.
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4. Bend, Oregon: Outdoor Paradise with a Craft Culture
Located amongst the volcanic peaks of Central Oregon, Bend is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Hiking, biking, rock climbing and whitewater rafting are just some of the activities that beckon adventure seekers. The city fosters a strong feeling of shared identity, with a vibrant craft beer scene and a plethora of community events. Bend offers a slower pace of life compared to Seattle but with all the amenities needed for a comfortable existence.
Remote workers in Bend can easily connect with nature when they are not working. (Photo Credit: Visit Bend)
Remote Work Perks
- Natural Playground - Outdoor lovers rejoice! Bend offers endless opportunities to explore and connect with nature during your work breaks.
- Thriving Craft Scene - Craft breweries, distilleries and local roasters contribute to a unique and vibrant community spirit.
- Growing Tech Industry - The tech industry is steadily expanding in Bend, attracting a growing number of remote workers.
5. Jackson, Michigan: Arts and Culture in a Midwestern Setting
Jackson, Michigan, set amidst beautiful lakes and rolling hills, offers a unique blend of Midwestern charm and artistic spirit. The city boasts a vibrant arts scene, with a renowned symphony orchestra, several museums and a thriving theater community. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the nearby Waterloo Recreation Area, with its hiking trails, lakes and campgrounds. Jackson offers a peaceful and friendly atmosphere, perfect for those seeking a slower pace of life.
A few of Jackson's remote worker incentives includes breakfast with the City Manager.
Remote Work Perks
- Abundant Access to Outdoor Recreation – Jackson is located near numerous lakes and has a great network of parks and trails including the scenic Townsend Beaman County Park along Vandercook Lake. The area also offers plenty of walking and biking trails, golf courses and rivers providing endless recreation options.
- Proximity to Major Cities – Jackson is located halfway between Detroit and Chicago giving remote workers easy access to big city amenities.
- MakeMyMove Participant – Like South Bend, Jackon has partnered with MakeMyMove to offer remote workers incentives when they relocate there including a one-year membership to Ella Sharp Golf Course and breakfast with the City Manager.
While Seattle remains a popular destination for professionals in various industries, these five communities offer unique alternatives that cater to the evolving needs of remote workers. Whether you're drawn to the outdoor adventures of Bend, the international flair of Vancouver, or the Midwestern charm of South Bend and Jackson, each of these cities provides a distinct lifestyle that may better suit your preferences and budget.
About MakeMyMove
Remote work has freed millions of Americans to live where they want, and many are making the move to places that better match their lifestyle. In turn, cities and towns across the country are offering incentives like cash, perks and programming to remote workers who move and work from their communities. At MakeMyMove, you can explore all the places, get personalized help to find the one that’s right for you, connect with locals, and access support to make your move a piece of cake.
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