The rapid growth of remote work opportunities for solopreneurs and gig workers has reduced, if not eliminated, the need for many workers to be tied down to living in an area near their job. If you like the idea of being able to roam anywhere in the country and still have a source of income, consider exploring these five cities. Whatever city you chose, you can identify housing that falls within your price range by using online rental search apps, and inputting your desired price range into the search filter. This allows you to view only the rentals that fit within your budget. You can further narrow your search by specifying the number of bedrooms, pet-friendliness and other amenities you want.
1. Seattle, Washington
Seattle is consistently listed in the top places in the U.S. to live. They have done more than any other city in the US in advocating for rideshare drivers, delivery drivers and other gig workers. The city created a minimum wage, paid sick leave and “safe time” protections for Covid-19 for the city’s gig workers. Seattle was also the first city to set up “hazard pay” for gig workers in 2020. The state of Washington has created unemployment benefits for Uber and Lyft drivers who also have protections from unfair termination and discrimination there.
2. Austin, Texas
Austin is the capital of the second largest state in the U.S. It is one of the hottest areas in the country for tech startups and entrepreneurs, which makes it particularly attractive to tech-minded solopreneurs. Austin isn't just a good place to work. It also has thriving art, music and cultural scenes. The city's unofficial motto of "Keep Austin Weird" is likely to appeal to many gig economy nomads.
The Texas Constitution doesn't allow state income taxes, so locating in Texas could save you some money come tax time. The cost of living is above the national average, and a one-bedroom apartment will cost over $1,000 a month in most locations, so Austin may be a better choice for established business owners and gig workers who make at least $90,000 per year than for people who are just getting started.
3. Dallas, Texas
If you like the idea of living in Texas, but Austin isn't your style, consider Dallas. Dallas is located in the middle of the Dallas-Ft. Worth area and is packed with a mix of huge corporations, universities and startups. There are plenty of economic opportunities in this diverse city.
The cost of living is just a bit above the national average in Dallas, making it a more affordable Texas location than Austin. However, a one-bedroom apartment will probably still cost you upwards of $1,000 a month.
4. Las Vegas, Nevada
Transient lifestyles are the norm in Las Vegas, so you will fit right in as a gig economy nomad. There is plenty to see and do to keep you entertained and lots of employment opportunities in the tourism, entertainment and manufacturing industries. Nevada also lacks a state income tax.
The cost of living in Las Vegas is similar to Austin. Rent is slightly cheaper, but still above the $1,000 per month mark for a one-bedroom. Because Vegas is a tourist destination, there is almost always something going on and plenty of travel accommodations for when you are ready to wander off to your next city.
5. Sacramento, California
According to research, about a third of the workforce in Sacramento is gig workers, so you will not be alone as a gig economy nomad there. Like most of California, Sacramento is not a cheap place to live, so you will need to do your research to find affordable housing. An average one-bedroom apartment rents for about $1,200 a month.
Finding the perfect place to live as a solopreneur or gig economy nomad can be a challenge. However, the nice thing about having a flexible job is that if you choose a city that doesn't work out, you can always go somewhere else.
