Maybe you’ve received permission from your employer to work remotely, or perhaps you’ve started a business that you can run entirely from your laptop. Now, you’re eager to take advantage of this flexibility, and you can’t wait to pack your bags and start a new chapter in your career as a digital nomad. To help you get started, Instatravelstyle Travel Blog shares some of the most welcoming cities for digital nomads traveling within the United States, as well as why you should factor in internet speeds when determining where to go next.
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Wait, Before You Go!
Before your adventures can begin, it’s important to consider a few odds and ends to ensure wherever you land that it’s smooth sailing.
Set Up Your LLC
Before you begin your nomadic life on your laptop, you need to protect yourself legally by forming a limited liability company (LLC) — and you might be asking yourself, “How long does it take to get an LLC?” The processing time depends on the state in which you form your new company. The standard time is 2 to 3 weeks, but if you expedite it, most states will be able to finish everything in 4 to 6 days. A few, though (Hawaii, Maine, Iowa, Maryland, New Hampshire, North Dakota, Utah, and Washington) take longer.
Decide What to Do with Your Home
Before setting off as a digital nomad, it’s crucial to decide what to do with your house or apartment. Renting it out, either long-term or through vacation rental platforms like Airbnb, can provide a steady income stream, helping to fund your travels. Alternatively, you could arrange for a house-sitter, ensuring regular upkeep and adding a layer of security. Another option is to leave it vacant, but in this case, installing smart security systems is highly advisable.
Have a Plan for Where to Stay
As a digital nomad, it’s essential to choose a rental property that accommodates long-term stays, providing a stable and comfortable base for your remote work. Focus your search on neighborhoods that cater to your specific needs, whether that’s access to co-working spaces, leisure facilities, or a vibrant social scene. Opting for a rental in an area that resonates with your lifestyle not only enriches your daily experience but also helps in cultivating a sense of belonging in the new environment. This strategic approach to housing can significantly enhance your overall experience as a location-independent professional.
Streamline Your Workflow
Good invoices are essential for digital nomads. Whether you opt for hand-written notes or create invoices electronically, if you establish a good invoicing system early on, it will help you to keep track of money and, indeed, your entire finances. A cost-free invoicing tool will help you to keep your professional life in check. Invoicing tools are available online and usually contain various templates. This, in turn, will make it easier for you to create an invoice, track the payment, and keep track of your finances. It is a good practice to save old and paid invoices as it will be easier for you to keep track of your annual income, for example.
How to Handle Tax Responsibilities and Stay Organized Abroad
The last thing you want to do is start living abroad as a digital nomad and then have to deal with the tax man at the same time. The US still taxes all its citizens, no matter where they live, so you’ll need to be diligent about filing your taxes every year, and you’ll need to be clear on the rules around foreign income. You should also be aware of any tax treaties that exist between the US and the place you’re headed so that you don’t end up paying taxes in two places for the same income. And you’ll want to make sure you have your IRS W-9 handy if you’re a freelancer who does side gigs, or if you’re a contractor who will need to report income to a tax authority.
Top Cities
Without further ado, here are some of our favorite cities worth checking out if you’re looking to try on the digital nomad lifestyle:
Long Beach, CA
Long Beach, California, is an interesting option for digital nomads, especially those who want to combine comfort and convenience with the serenity of the beach. Long Beach is separated from Los Angeles by the Palos Verdes Peninsula and spans several neighborhoods, so you can choose between a more urban environment with a metropolitan vibe or a seaside one with waterfront living. Long Beach has very active co-working spaces and great coffee shops for working and networking, and the cultural scene is vibrant, ranging from art galleries to music festivals.
Cincinnati, OH
Cincinnati in Ohio has the best of both worlds – it has an urban vibe with lots of cool culture, but is still part of the Midwest, so it’s got a comfortable small-town feel as well. It’s also quite an economical place, which can be a big draw for those who want to stretch their dollars as far as possible while working remotely. There are plenty of co-working spaces and coffee shops in town, too, not to mention an up-and-coming tech scene for those seeking a decent network of other web-based workers. And, of course, the city’s history, eclectic food offerings, and thriving arts community provide plenty of diversions for digital nomads when they’re taking a well-earned break from work.
San Antonio, TX
San Antonio, Texas is a city with a rich history, a diverse culture, and modern amenities. The River Walk, a winding river that runs through the city, lined with cafés and shops, is a nice place to work and relax. San Antonio is also a low-cost destination with a rich life, at a lower cost than many bigger cities. The tech industry in San Antonio is booming, and there are many coworking spaces in the city. There are also plenty of food options and festivals to attend, and the city boasts great weather for most of the year.
Asheville, NC
Asheville, North Carolina, nestled against the backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains, attracts digital nomads with its appealing mix of natural beauty and urban amenities. The bohemian and arty city, a hub for arts festivals and street performances, is abundant with galleries and a vibrant arts scene, inspiring creativity. With plenty of cozy cafes and collaborative working spaces, Asheville is a place where remote workers can touch base and be productive. It is also a city making good on its Wellness Capital of the World title with a healthy lifestyle firmly established by a plethora of yoga studios and organic food outlets.
The cities highlighted offer an exceptional blend of amenities and experiences, perfectly suited to the lifestyle of a digital nomad. From the tranquil shores of Long Beach to the historic richness of San Antonio, the creative energy of Asheville, and the affordable charm of Cincinnati, each location presents a unique opportunity for both professional productivity and personal exploration. These destinations are more than just suitable spots for remote work; they are communities where you can immerse yourself, creating lasting memories and connections. As you navigate your journey as a digital nomad, these cities stand out as vibrant, inspiring choices that can serve as both a temporary workspace and a source of endless adventure.
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