Remote Work & Cost of Living Guide
Master geographic arbitrage, optimize your remote work lifestyle, and maximize savings through strategic location choices.
Best Cities for Remote Workers
Austin, TX
30-40% vs SF/NYCDenver, CO
25-35% vs SF/NYCRaleigh, NC
40-50% vs SF/NYCTampa, FL
45-55% vs SF/NYCNashville, TN
40-50% vs SF/NYCBoise, ID
50-60% vs SF/NYC💡 Location Selection Tip
Consider time zones, internet infrastructure, coworking spaces, and social opportunities - not just cost savings.
Geographic Arbitrage Strategies
Salary Retention
Keep your current high-city salary while moving to lower-cost area
Key Considerations:
- • Company policy
- • Performance maintenance
- • Tax implications
Partial Arbitrage
Accept modest salary reduction for significant cost savings
Key Considerations:
- • Negotiate reduction amount
- • Document new arrangement
- • Plan for adjustments
Multi-Location Living
Split time between high and low cost areas strategically
Key Considerations:
- • Travel costs
- • Two housing payments
- • Tax complexity
International Arbitrage
Work remotely from lower-cost countries
Key Considerations:
- • Visa requirements
- • Time zones
- • Tax treaties
- • Healthcare
Tax Implications by Scenario
Same State Move
Low- • No tax change
- • Update address with employer
- • Local tax rates may vary
Different State Move
Medium- • Research state income tax rates
- • Understand reciprocity agreements
- • Update withholdings
No Income Tax State
Medium- • Potential for significant savings
- • May have higher property/sales tax
- • Employer may adjust salary
International Remote
High- • Foreign earned income exclusion
- • Tax treaties
- • Double taxation issues
- • Professional advice required
⚠️ Tax Professional Advice
Tax implications can be complex, especially for multi-state or international situations. Consult a qualified tax professional before making major location decisions.
Remote Work Productivity Essentials
Internet & Tech
- • 25+ Mbps upload/download
- • Backup internet option
- • Reliable power supply
- • Quality webcam/microphone
Workspace
- • Dedicated office space
- • Ergonomic furniture
- • Good lighting
- • Minimal distractions
Community
- • Coworking spaces nearby
- • Professional networks
- • Social opportunities
- • Time zone compatibility
Calculate Your Savings
Compare your current city costs with remote work destinations.
Launch CalculatorDigital Nomad GuideArbitrage Calculator
Remote Work FAQ
Geographic arbitrage means earning a salary from a high-cost city while living in a lower-cost location. For example, keeping a San Francisco salary ($150K) while living in Austin (50% lower costs) can effectively double your purchasing power and savings rate.