Southern U.S. tops remote work affordability
FLORIDA, UNITED STATES — A new study reveals the 10 most affordable U.S. states for the booming digital nomad workforce.
Mississippi claims the top spot with a stellar affordability score of 91.3 out of 100.
“It scores more than 90 points in almost all categories, with only two exceptions: high internet (73.1) and healthcare costs (86.5),” the report said.
Oklahoma (2nd) and Arkansas (3rd) also ranked high due to low food and housing costs. Other states like Texas and Tennessee also made the top list, credited for their no-income-tax policy and affordability.
The analysis by B2B marketplace DesignRush assessed metrics like tax rates, legal obligations, healthcare services, internet availability, cost, and living affordability. The findings show the South is the clear winner for remote workers looking to maximize their income.
The top ten U.S. states for remote workers include:
- Mississippi
- Oklahoma
- Arkansas
- Texas
- Tennessee
- North Dakota
- South Dakota
- Ohio
- Missouri
- Alabama
“Our study supports the modern working class in their search for a suitable work-life balance while helping policymakers and business leaders grasp the latest employee preferences,” said DesignRush General Manager Gianluca Ferrugia.
With 17.3 million Americans now identifying as digital nomads, the findings provide valuable guidance on where they can stretch their income furthest.
On the other hand, Hawaii, New York, and California ranked as the worst states for digital nomads due to exorbitant rent prices and taxes.
A SmartAsset analysis revealed that an individual needs to earn $96,500 annually to live comfortably in a major city. New York City topped the list, necessitating $138,570 for comfortable solo living.
