The rise of remote work and the allure of the open road have led digital nomads to seek more tranquil, less crowded places for living and working. While the bright lights of big cities have been the go-to spots for nomads for a long time, there’s a growing shift toward smaller, quieter towns that offer an ideal blend of rural charm and digital connectivity. These lesser-known gems provide a more affordable lifestyle, a stronger sense of community, and unparalleled natural beauty—all without the distractions of city life.
Here are 10 underrated small towns perfect for rural digital nomads who want to strike the right balance between productivity and peace.
1. Bishop, California
Why it’s perfect for Digital Nomads:
Bishop, located in the Eastern Sierra region, is a quiet town with breathtaking landscapes. It is ideal for digital nomads who want to work in a peaceful environment while still having access to high-speed internet and a vibrant outdoor scene.
What makes Bishop stand out:
- Outdoor Adventures: Hiking, fishing, and climbing in the Sierra Nevada Mountains.
- Affordable Living: The cost of living is far below California’s big cities, making it an attractive option for remote workers.
- Robust Internet Connectivity: Bishop offers reliable fiber-optic internet in most areas.
| Feature | Bishop, California |
|---|---|
| Average Rent (1BR) | $1,000–$1,300/month |
| Population | ~4,000 |
| Speed of Internet | 100-500 Mbps |
2. Dahlonega, Georgia
Why it’s perfect for Digital Nomads:
Known for its rich gold mining history and picturesque surroundings, Dahlonega is a small town that blends Southern charm with modern amenities.
What makes Dahlonega stand out:
- Rich History: A great place for those interested in history and culture.
- Vibrant Arts Scene: Dahlonega supports local artists and artisans, perfect for those who want inspiration.
- Reliable Internet: Local cafes and co-working spaces offer strong Wi-Fi for remote work.
| Feature | Dahlonega, Georgia |
|---|---|
| Average Rent (1BR) | $850–$1,100/month |
| Population | ~7,000 |
| Speed of Internet | 50-200 Mbps |
3. Marfa, Texas
Why it’s perfect for Digital Nomads:
Marfa may be a small town in West Texas, but it’s a hub for creativity, art, and the outdoors. Digital nomads seeking inspiration and space to work without distractions will find Marfa ideal.
What makes Marfa stand out:
- Artistic Hub: Marfa has a thriving art community with galleries, installations, and festivals.
- Unparalleled Stargazing: Its remote location makes it a great place for stargazing.
- Quiet yet Connected: It offers a peaceful environment with internet access in most areas.
| Feature | Marfa, Texas |
|---|---|
| Average Rent (1BR) | $900–$1,200/month |
| Population | ~2,000 |
| Speed of Internet | 100-300 Mbps |
4. Crested Butte, Colorado
Why it’s perfect for Digital Nomads:
Nestled in the Rocky Mountains, Crested Butte is known for its natural beauty, adventurous lifestyle, and a strong sense of community.
What makes Crested Butte stand out:
- Outdoor Playground: Skiing, mountain biking, and hiking are popular activities here.
- Close-knit Community: The town has a friendly, welcoming vibe perfect for those who seek a more personal lifestyle.
- Good Internet: Crested Butte has reliable internet options, making remote work possible in such a scenic location.
| Feature | Crested Butte, Colorado |
|---|---|
| Average Rent (1BR) | $1,200–$1,600/month |
| Population | ~1,500 |
| Speed of Internet | 100-500 Mbps |
5. Wallace, Idaho
Why it’s perfect for Digital Nomads:
A tiny, historic town nestled in the Rocky Mountains, Wallace is full of charm and modern convenience. Its peaceful atmosphere is perfect for digital nomads looking to escape from busy city life.
What makes Wallace stand out:
- Historic Feel: Known as the “Center of the Universe” due to its history, Wallace is a fascinating destination.
- Adventure and Relaxation: Outdoor recreation, such as hiking, biking, and fishing, is a staple here.
- Solid Internet: Wallace offers high-speed internet, ideal for remote work.
| Feature | Wallace, Idaho |
|---|---|
| Average Rent (1BR) | $750–$1,000/month |
| Population | ~800 |
| Speed of Internet | 50-200 Mbps |
6. Taos, New Mexico
Why it’s perfect for Digital Nomads:
Taos is a unique town, offering a blend of artistic energy and stunning landscapes. It attracts digital nomads who are looking for creative inspiration and a peaceful environment.
What makes Taos stand out:
- Artistic Energy: Taos has a long history as a center for artists and creatives.
- Stunning Natural Beauty: Surrounded by mountains and rivers, it’s perfect for nature lovers.
- High-speed Internet: Many cafes and remote locations offer good internet connectivity.
| Feature | Taos, New Mexico |
|---|---|
| Average Rent (1BR) | $900–$1,300/month |
| Population | ~5,700 |
| Speed of Internet | 50-150 Mbps |
7. Ashland, Oregon
Why it’s perfect for Digital Nomads:
Famous for the Oregon Shakespeare Festival, Ashland is a small town that offers culture, a moderate climate, and a great location for remote workers.
What makes Ashland stand out:
- Cultural Richness: With year-round events, Ashland is perfect for those who enjoy the arts.
- Natural Beauty: The town is surrounded by forests and mountains, perfect for hiking and outdoor activities.
- Great Wi-Fi: Strong internet connections are available in local cafes and co-working spaces.
| Feature | Ashland, Oregon |
|---|---|
| Average Rent (1BR) | $1,200–$1,500/month |
| Population | ~20,000 |
| Speed of Internet | 100-500 Mbps |
8. Silver City, New Mexico
Why it’s perfect for Digital Nomads:
Silver City is a quirky, historic town with strong ties to the arts. It’s an excellent choice for remote workers who want a peaceful, inspiring environment.
What makes Silver City stand out:
- Artistic Vibe: With a large community of artists, Silver City fosters creativity and offers a quiet environment to work.
- Low Cost of Living: The town’s affordable lifestyle attracts digital nomads looking to maximize their income.
- Good Internet: Reliable Wi-Fi for remote workers, especially in the central areas.
| Feature | Silver City, New Mexico |
|---|---|
| Average Rent (1BR) | $750–$1,100/month |
| Population | ~10,000 |
| Speed of Internet | 50-200 Mbps |
9. Sandpoint, Idaho
Why it’s perfect for Digital Nomads:
Sandpoint is surrounded by mountains and lakes, offering a quiet and scenic location for digital nomads who seek work-life balance.
What makes Sandpoint stand out:
- Natural Beauty: Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, with lakes, mountains, and trails.
- Close Community: The town offers a peaceful atmosphere where people know each other.
- Reliable Wi-Fi: Good internet connectivity is available for remote workers.
| Feature | Sandpoint, Idaho |
|---|---|
| Average Rent (1BR) | $1,000–$1,400/month |
| Population | ~8,000 |
| Speed of Internet | 50-300 Mbps |
10. Burlington, Vermont
Why it’s perfect for Digital Nomads:
Burlington offers a vibrant community surrounded by natural beauty, with the added bonus of being a hub for local food, arts, and innovation.
What makes Burlington stand out:
- Innovative Culture: Burlington supports startups and digital entrepreneurs.
- Natural Beauty: Located on Lake Champlain, it offers scenic views and outdoor activities.
- Reliable Internet: Excellent internet infrastructure to support remote work.
| Feature | Burlington, Vermont |
|---|---|
| Average Rent (1BR) | $1,300–$1,800/month |
| Population | ~42,000 |
| Speed of Internet | 100-500 Mbps |
Conclusion
The rise of rural digital nomadism shows that work doesn’t need to be tied to a big city. Smaller towns offer remote workers the best of both worlds: the peace of nature and the connectivity needed to get the job done. From breathtaking mountain views to artistic communities, these 10 underrated small towns provide the ideal environment for digital nomads looking to escape the distractions of city life.
Whether you’re seeking artistic inspiration in Marfa or want to explore the wilderness in Bishop, these towns offer unique experiences that can enhance both your work and lifestyle. By choosing a small town with affordable living and reliable internet, digital nomads can not only thrive professionally but also enjoy the slower pace of life that rural areas offer.
