🌍 Overview
As a digital nomad, I’ve had the pleasure of calling Washington home for several months, and I can confidently say that it’s a hidden gem for remote workers. With its stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture, and thriving food scene, Washington is an attractive destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. The city has a unique vibe that’s hard to find elsewhere - it’s a mix of laid-back and adventurous, with a strong sense of community that makes it easy to connect with like-minded individuals.
One of the reasons why digital nomads love Washington is its proximity to nature. The city is surrounded by lush green forests, mountains, and waterways, making it an ideal base for outdoor enthusiasts. From hiking and biking to kayaking and skiing, there’s no shortage of activities to keep you entertained. And with a growing number of coworking spaces and cafes, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to stay productive and connected.
🏘️ Best Neighborhoods for Digital Nomads
When it comes to choosing a neighborhood to live and work in Washington, there are several options to consider. Here are a few of my favorites:
- Capitol Hill: This vibrant neighborhood is known for its eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, and bars. It’s a hub for creative types and remote workers, with plenty of coworking spaces and cafes to choose from. Rent prices are relatively high, with a one-bedroom apartment costing around $2,200 per month (approximately $2,074 USD).
- Ballard: This charming neighborhood is located just north of downtown Seattle and is known for its Scandinavian heritage. It’s a popular spot for families and young professionals, with a growing number of coworking spaces and cafes. Rent prices are slightly lower than Capitol Hill, with a one-bedroom apartment costing around $1,800 per month (approximately $1,700 USD).
- Georgetown: This up-and-coming neighborhood is located just south of downtown Seattle and is known for its artsy vibe. It’s a popular spot for remote workers and creatives, with plenty of coworking spaces and cafes to choose from. Rent prices are relatively affordable, with a one-bedroom apartment costing around $1,500 per month (approximately $1,400 USD).
Cost of Living Breakdown
The cost of living in Washington is relatively high, especially when it comes to housing. However, with a little planning and research, you can find affordable options that fit your budget. Here’s a breakdown of some typical expenses:
- Rent: As mentioned earlier, rent prices vary depending on the neighborhood. On average, you can expect to pay around $2,074 per month for a one-bedroom apartment.
- Food: Eating out in Washington can be expensive, with the average meal costing around $15-$20 per person. However, with a little planning, you can find affordable options like food trucks and cafes. Groceries are also relatively expensive, with a basket of basic items costing around $50-$75 per week.
- Transportation: Washington has a comprehensive public transportation system, with buses and light rail connecting most neighborhoods. A monthly public transportation pass costs around $100-$150.
- Coworking: Coworking spaces in Washington are plentiful, with prices ranging from $200-$500 per month for a dedicated desk.
Internet & Coworking
Washington has a thriving coworking scene, with plenty of options to choose from. Some popular coworking spaces include:
- WeWork: With several locations throughout the city, WeWork offers a range of membership options, including hot desks and dedicated offices.
- Industrious: This upscale coworking space offers a range of amenities, including high-speed internet, printing and copying services, and on-site fitness classes.
- The Riveter: This women-focused coworking space offers a range of membership options, including hot desks and dedicated offices, as well as a range of amenities like childcare and fitness classes.
When it comes to internet speeds, Washington has an average speed of 43 Mbps, which is relatively fast compared to other cities in the US. You can find plenty of cafes and coffee shops with reliable internet, including:
- Cafe Vita: This popular coffee shop has several locations throughout the city and offers fast and reliable internet.
- Stumptown Coffee Roasters: This Portland-based coffee shop has several locations in Washington and offers a range of coffee drinks and snacks, as well as fast internet.
Washington has a thriving digital nomad community, with plenty of meetups and events to attend. Some popular groups include:
- Washington Digital Nomads: This Facebook group has over 1,000 members and offers a range of resources and events for remote workers.
- Remote Workers Washington: This Meetup group has over 500 members and offers regular meetups and events for remote workers.
- Nomad List Washington: This online community offers a range of resources and events for digital nomads, including meetups and coworking sessions.
Culture & Lifestyle
Washington has a unique culture that’s shaped by its stunning natural beauty and outdoor lifestyle. The city is known for its food scene, which includes a range of seafood, craft beer, and coffee. Some popular local customs include:
- Coffee culture: Washington is famous for its coffee, with a range of independent coffee shops and cafes throughout the city.
- Outdoor activities: With its proximity to nature, Washington is an ideal base for outdoor enthusiasts. From hiking and biking to kayaking and skiing, there’s no shortage of activities to keep you entertained.
- Food scene: Washington is known for its seafood, with a range of fresh fish and shellfish available at restaurants and markets throughout the city.
When it comes to dating and nightlife, Washington has a thriving scene, with plenty of bars and clubs to choose from. Some popular spots include:
- Pike Place Market: This historic market is a popular spot for dates, with a range of food and drink options, as well as live music and entertainment.
- Capitol Hill: This vibrant neighborhood is known for its bars and clubs, with a range of options to suit all tastes and preferences.
As a digital nomad, you’ll need to research the visa requirements for Washington. The US has a range of visa options, including the B1/B2 visa, which allows visitors to stay in the country for up to six months. However, this visa does not allow you to work or engage in any business activities.
For remote workers, the O-1 visa may be a better option. This visa is designed for individuals with extraordinary abilities in fields like technology, arts, or science, and allows you to work in the US for up to three years.
💡 Practical Tips
Here are some practical tips for digital nomads in Washington:
- SIM cards: You can purchase SIM cards from a range of providers, including AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile. Prices start from around $30 per month for a basic plan.
- Transportation: Washington has a comprehensive public transportation system, with buses and light rail connecting most neighborhoods. You can purchase a monthly public transportation pass for around $100-$150.
- Safety: Washington is generally a safe city, but as with any city, there are areas that are best avoided. Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night, and take necessary precautions to stay safe.
- Weather: Washington has a mild climate, with temperatures ranging from 35-75°F (2-24°C) throughout the year. However, the city can be rainy, especially during the winter months, so be sure to pack accordingly.
