While most people probably associate the term “digital nomad” with beaches in Mexico or Thailand, the most popular country for remote workers is actually the good ol’ USA. Whether it’s the desert of New Mexico, the mountains of Colorado, or the vibrant streets of New York, America provides a lifetime of opportunities for digital nomads. The only barrier is — you guessed it — the high cost of living.
Here at Nomad Deals, we ranked 62 of the largest cities in the U.S. by monthly cost of living. Included are short-term Airbnb costs, long-term rent, and expenses for one individual. Continue scrolling for a closer look at the top options, as well as our guide to saving money while living as a digital nomad in America.
Our Methodology
Because digital nomads cluster in downtown neighborhoods, we based our estimate on the average cost of a one-bedroom apartment in the city center. Airbnb price data is taken from AirDNA, while rent and expense figures are sourced from Numbeo.
Cities in the U.S. Ranked by Cost of Living
| City | State | Airbnb (monthly) | Rent (monthly) | Expenses (excl. rent) |
| Albuquerque | NM | $3,080 | $1,130 | $1,030 |
| Oklahoma City | OK | $2,840 | $1,270 | $1,190 |
| Tulsa | OK | $3,200 | $1,150 | $1,090 |
| Spokane | WA | $2,990 | $1,450 | $1,100 |
| Cleveland | OH | $3,080 | $1,290 | $1,170 |
| Memphis | TN | $3,380 | $1,140 | $1,100 |
| Boise | ID | $3,100 | $1,570 | $1,060 |
| Saint Louis | MO | $3,240 | $1,310 | $1,140 |
| Rochester | NY | $3,290 | $1,410 | $1,080 |
| Richmond | VA | $3,130 | $1,560 | $1,120 |
| Detroit | MI | $3,170 | $1,400 | $1,180 |
| Tucson | AZ | $3,440 | $1,270 | $1,130 |
| Cincinnati | OH | $3,600 | $1,520 | $980 |
| Fresno | CA | $3,220 | $1,590 | $1,250 |
| Kansas City | MO | $3,710 | $1,390 | $1,120 |
| Eugene | OR | $3,800 | $1,370 | $1,100 |
| Omaha | NE | $3,460 | $1,450 | $1,240 |
| Raleigh | NC | $3,100 | $1,830 | $1,230 |
| Pittsburgh | PA | $3,150 | $1,740 | $1,270 |
| Indianapolis | IN | $3,650 | $1,580 | $1,100 |
| Greenville | SC | $3,150 | $1,850 | $1,250 |
| Houston | TX | $3,620 | $1,640 | $1,120 |
| Knoxville | TN | $3,740 | $1,690 | $1,060 |
| Reno | NV | $3,580 | $1,510 | $1,230 |
| Columbus | OH | $3,620 | $1,500 | $1,220 |
| Buffalo | NY | $3,760 | $1,380 | $1,210 |
| Portland | OR | $3,220 | $1,770 | $1,290 |
| Salt Lake City | UT | $3,690 | $1,630 | $1,130 |
| Philadelphia | PA | $3,150 | $1,810 | $1,370 |
| San Antonio | TX | $4,180 | $1,470 | $1,040 |
| Minneapolis | MN | $3,650 | $1,650 | $1,220 |
| Fort Worth | TX | $3,960 | $1,610 | $1,170 |
| Milwaukee | WI | $4,050 | $1,600 | $1,130 |
| Dallas | TX | $3,830 | $1,710 | $1,190 |
| Charlotte | NC | $3,530 | $1,910 | $1,270 |
| Atlanta | GA | $3,470 | $1,900 | $1,340 |
| Tampa | FL | $3,640 | $1,960 | $1,280 |
| Baltimore | MD | $4,100 | $1,740 | $1,180 |
| Sacramento | CA | $3,380 | $2,110 | $1,410 |
| Madison | WI | $4,430 | $1,620 | $1,140 |
| Colorado Springs | CO | $4,000 | $1,850 | $1,250 |
| Louisville | KY | $4,950 | $1,410 | $1,080 |
| Denver | CO | $3,850 | $2,110 | $1,290 |
| Jacksonville | FL | $4,880 | $1,630 | $1,080 |
| Seattle | WA | $3,820 | $2,270 | $1,420 |
| Chicago | IL | $4,280 | $2,340 | $1,280 |
| Washington | DC | $3,940 | $2,540 | $1,400 |
| Orlando | FL | $5,110 | $1,900 | $1,150 |
| Phoenix | AZ | $5,490 | $1,650 | $1,130 |
| Las Vegas | NV | $5,630 | $1,630 | $1,150 |
| San Jose | CA | $3,800 | $2,880 | $1,460 |
| New Orleans | LA | $5,350 | $1,770 | $1,290 |
| Austin | TX | $5,310 | $2,250 | $1,110 |
| Fort Lauderdale | FL | $5,270 | $2,300 | $1,210 |
| Los Angeles | CA | $5,420 | $2,470 | $1,310 |
| Miami | FL | $5,310 | $2,810 | $1,300 |
| Nashville | TN | $6,350 | $1,980 | $1,200 |
| Boston | MA | $4,840 | $3,360 | $1,470 |
| San Francisco | CA | $5,290 | $3,200 | $1,550 |
| Honolulu | HI | $6,500 | $2,230 | $1,520 |
| San Diego | CA | $7,020 | $2,860 | $1,390 |
| New York | NY | $5,490 | $4,010 | $1,700 |
The Top Ten Cheapest Cities in the U.S. for Nomads
Here is a closer look at the least expensive U.S. cities on our list.
Albuquerque, New Mexico
Airbnb: $3,080
Rent: $1,130
Albuquerque offers digital nomads a unique blend of affordability, culture, and outdoor adventure. With a relatively low cost of living, nomads can enjoy scenic desert landscapes, a vibrant arts scene, and mild winters. The city has a growing number of coworking spaces, fast internet, and plenty of coffee shops with free Wi-Fi. Outdoor lovers will appreciate the proximity to hiking trails, hot air ballooning, and the stunning Sandia Mountains.
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Airbnb: $2,840
Rent: $1,270
Oklahoma City is one of the most budget-friendly metropolitan areas in the U.S., making it an excellent choice for digital nomads looking to keep costs low. The city boasts affordable housing, low taxes, and a thriving startup scene. Coworking spaces and coffee shops are plentiful, and the local economy is growing, offering networking opportunities. OKC also has a unique blend of cowboy culture and modern city living, with great BBQ, an expanding arts district, and plenty of green spaces.
Tulsa, Oklahoma
Airbnb: $3,200
Rent: $1,150
Tulsa is quickly becoming a hotspot for digital nomads, thanks in part to the Tulsa Remote program, which offers $10,000 incentives to remote workers willing to relocate. Beyond financial perks, Tulsa sports an emerging tech and startup community, plenty of coworking spaces, and a rich cultural scene, including the historic Greenwood District and the renowned Philbrook Museum of Art. The city’s affordability and strong community make it an appealing alternative to larger, more expensive hubs.
Spokane, Washington
Airbnb: $2,990
Rent: $1,450
Spokane offers digital nomads a mix of affordability, natural beauty, and a relaxed lifestyle. Located in eastern Washington, the city boasts lower housing costs than Seattle while still offering a vibrant downtown, quality coffee shops, and reliable internet. Outdoor enthusiasts will love Spokane’s proximity to hiking trails, ski resorts, and the stunning Spokane River. It’s an ideal place for those who want a balance of urban amenities and easy access to nature.
Cleveland, Ohio
Airbnb: $3,080
Rent: $1,290
Cleveland is an underrated gem for digital nomads who want big-city amenities at an affordable price. The city boasts a thriving healthcare and tech sector, a growing remote work community, and plenty of coworking spaces. The cost of living remains low, especially for rent, and there’s no shortage of entertainment, from the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame to a strong craft beer and food scene. With fast internet and a rich cultural heritage, Cleveland is a practical and lively place for remote workers.
Memphis, Tennessee
Airbnb: $3,380
Rent: $1,140
Memphis combines affordability with rich musical and cultural history, making it a compelling option for digital nomads. The cost of living is among the lowest in the country, and Tennessee has no state income tax, which is a major perk for freelancers and remote workers. The city offers a growing entrepreneurial scene, reliable internet, and excellent coworking spaces. Foodies and music lovers will enjoy the world-famous barbecue, blues clubs, and deep-rooted history in rock and soul music.
Boise, Idaho
Airbnb: $3,100
Rent: $1,570
Boise has gained popularity among digital nomads for its mix of urban convenience and outdoor adventure. The city is known for its friendly community, clean environment, and low crime rates. With high-speed internet, numerous coffee shops, and coworking spaces, the city features nomads’ favorite amenities in spades. Boise also boasts easy access to outdoor activities, from hiking in the foothills to whitewater rafting, making it a perfect place for those who want a work-life balance with plenty of adventure.
Saint Louis, Missouri
Airbnb: $3,240
Rent: $1,310
Saint Louis offers digital nomads a mix of affordability, history, and entrepreneurial energy. The cost of living is low, and the city has an increasing number of coworking spaces and tech startups. One major draw is that many of the city’s top attractions, like the St. Louis Zoo and museums, are free. The food scene is strong, with famous BBQ and craft breweries. With a growing remote work culture and reliable internet, Saint Louis is a solid choice for nomads looking for an affordable yet vibrant city.
Rochester, New York
Airbnb: $3,290
Rent: $1,410
Rochester provides digital nomads with a mix of affordability and a strong local economy, particularly in tech and education. With a low cost of living compared to New York City, it offers excellent value while still providing access to cultural attractions, breweries, and scenic outdoor spots like the Finger Lakes. The city has a growing remote work community and coworking spaces, and while winters can be harsh, it’s a great Northeast destination for those who don’t mind snow.
Richmond, Virginia
Airbnb: $3,130
Rent: $1,560
Richmond is an excellent option for digital nomads seeking an East Coast city with a lower cost of living. The city features a thriving creative and entrepreneurial scene, plenty of coworking spaces, and strong Wi-Fi infrastructure. Richmond is known for its historic charm, riverfront activities, and a booming food and craft beer scene. With easy access to both Washington, D.C. and the Blue Ridge Mountains, Richmond offers the perfect mix of city life and outdoor escapes.
Saving Money in the U.S. as a Digital Nomad
Living the digital nomad lifestyle in the U.S. doesn’t have to drain your bank account. With smart strategies, you can explore vibrant cities, enjoy great food, and still have enough funds to keep traveling. Here’s your guide to saving money on essentials like housing, food, and transportation while working remotely across America.
Housing
For most digital nomads, housing is the biggest monthly expense. While affordable long-term rentals exist, short-term stays—especially in popular cities—can be pricey. Platforms like Airbnb and hotels often charge 2-4x what locals pay on a lease. Here’s how to keep housing costs down while nomading in the USA:
Stay in hostels
Hostels aren’t just for backpackers—many now cater to remote workers, offering co-living and coworking spaces. Platforms like Hostelworld help nomads find budget-friendly options in major cities.
House-sitting and apartment sharing
Short-term housing sites like TrustedHousesitters allow nomads to stay in homes for free in exchange for pet or house care. Apartment-sharing through platforms like Craigslist, Facebook groups, or Airbnb can also cut costs, making it easier to afford longer stays.
Look beyond downtown
While most nomads want to be in the heart of the action, accommodations in downtown areas are often the most expensive. Consider staying in more affordable neighborhoods with good public transit access. You’ll still enjoy the city but at a fraction of the price.
Negotiate long-term discounts
Negotiating your Airbnb cost is a no-brainer for saving money. Many Airbnb hosts offer significant discounts for stays of a month or more—sometimes up to 40% off. Message hosts to ask about lower rates for longer stays or offer to book directly (outside the platform) to save on fees.
Use Facebook Groups
Many digital nomads find rental deals through local housing Facebook groups. However, scams are common—never send money upfront without a lease or video tour. Always verify listings before committing.
Food
Eating out every day can add up fast, but there are ways to experience great food without breaking the bank.
Embrace food trucks and local markets
Many U.S. cities have thriving food truck scenes that serve delicious, affordable meals. Farmers’ markets are also great for fresh, budget-friendly food, especially if you enjoy cooking.
Look for happy hour and daily specials
Many restaurants and bars offer happy hour discounts on drinks and appetizers. Lunch specials and prix-fixe menus also provide great value compared to regular dinner prices.
Join restaurant rewards programs
Sign up for rewards programs at your favorite restaurants and coffee shops. Many offer discounts, free items, and exclusive deals to members.
Transportation
Getting around in the U.S. can be expensive, but smart transportation choices can save you a lot over time.
Use public transit
Major cities like New York, Chicago, and Washington, D.C., have reliable public transit systems. Instead of renting a car or taking Ubers everywhere, invest in a monthly metro pass for unlimited rides.
Consider long-distance buses and trains
Instead of flying between cities, check out long-distance bus services like Megabus and Greyhound, which often have fares as low as $10. For train lovers, Amtrak offers discounted multi-city rail passes.
Use carpools and rideshare
Platforms like BlaBlaCar (in some U.S. regions) or Poparide help travelers share rides for long-distance trips at a fraction of the cost of flights.
Rent cars by the hour
For short-term travel needs, services like Zipcar or Turo let you rent a car by the hour or day, often much cheaper than traditional rentals.
Bonus Tips
💰 Find Free Attractions – Many U.S. cities offer free museum days, concerts, and outdoor events. Check local tourism websites for free things to do.
🚶 Take Free Walking Tours – Cities like New York, Boston, and San Francisco offer free walking tours where you tip the guide instead of paying a set fee.
🏕️ Camp Instead of Booking Hotels – National and state parks offer low-cost camping options if you enjoy nature and want to save on lodging.
With the right approach, the U.S. can be an affordable and exciting place to live and work as a digital nomad. Whether you’re exploring big cities or small towns, there are always ways to stretch your budget without sacrificing the experience.
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