- St. Louis leads US cities for digital nomadism with strong internet, affordability, and lifestyle perks.
- Austin ranks highest for digital readiness, offering top coworking density and Wi-Fi access.
- Midwest cities like Springfield, MO, dominate affordability, keeping living costs under $3K/month.
- Self storage plays a growing role in supporting nomads between locations and travels.
What began as a post-2008 niche later surged during the COVID-19 lockdowns. It is now a mainstream lifestyle – digital nomadism is expanding and diversifying, reports StorageCafe. The 2025 Live-Work-Play Index by StorageCafe ranks 169 US cities on their ability to support mobile professionals. The evaluation considers lifestyle, digital infrastructure, safety, and affordability. St. Louis, MO, took the top spot, with Austin, TX, and Pittsburgh, PA, close behind.
The Evolving Nomad Profile
Today’s nomads include:
- Traditional nomads: spending 1–3 months in each location.
- Slowmads: immersing themselves for longer periods.
- Tethered nomads: keeping a home base and traveling regionally.
According to MBO Partners, 11% of US workers now identify as digital nomads — up 147% since 2019 — with a growing number choosing US-based destinations over international travel.
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Top Cities
- #1 St. Louis, MO: Affordable historic neighborhoods, fast internet, rich cultural and outdoor options.
- #2 Pittsburgh, PA: Strong leisure and retail scene, outdoor access, affordability.
- #3 Austin, TX: Best digital readiness nationwide, with high coworking density and community.
Affordability Factor
Midwest cities dominate the budget-friendly list, led by Springfield, MO ($2,299/month), followed by Lansing, MI, and McAllen, TX. Housing costs are a key driver, with Springfield apartments averaging just $925/month.
Self Storage As Nomad Infrastructure
With mobility comes the need for flexible storage. Nomads use climate-controlled, short-term units to safeguard belongings between moves, while vehicle storage is growing among RV and camper van travelers. States like Wyoming, Montana, and Nebraska offer some of the nation’s lowest storage rates — under $107/month — making them attractive departure zones.
Why It Matters
The shift from high-frequency travel to a mix of mobility and rootedness is reshaping how cities attract talent. Affordable, well-connected metros like St. Louis, Austin, and Springfield are proving that nomadism can be both adventurous and sustainable.
