Beyond the Triangle: Unveiling 6 Remote Work Hubs Akin to Raleigh, North Carolina

By Natalia Wolting • Jun 4, 2024

Raleigh, North Carolina, has become a magnet for remote workers. Its Research Triangle Park (RTP) fosters innovation, its vibrant downtown buzzes with activity and its surrounding areas offer a taste of Southern charm. But what if you crave a similar mix of opportunity, affordability and livability without the Triangle's hustle? Look no further! From relatively low living costs to abundant amenities and strong housing markets, these areas hit all the high notes remote employees tune into when seeking a fresh zip code.

Sun Belt Sisterhood

Knoxville, Tennessee - Nestled in the foothills of the majestic Great Smoky Mountains, Knoxville, Tennessee entices remote workers with a surprising blend of urban convenience and outdoor adventure. A thriving university scene fosters youthful energy, while a burgeoning entrepreneurial spirit creates a dynamic atmosphere. Knoxville offers a significantly lower cost of living compared to Raleigh, making it an attractive alternative. Hikers and nature enthusiasts will find paradise just outside their doorstep – the Great Smoky Mountains National Park boasts breathtaking scenery and endless trails, offering endless opportunities to explore.

downtown Knoxville, TN

Huntsville, Alabama - With a metro population of nearly 500,000, Huntsville offers big-city amenities alongside small-town affordability. The cost of living in Huntsville is about 9% less than in Raleigh, making it an attractive landing spot for remote workers. But Huntsville isn't just affordable – it's also an innovative, future-focused city with major employment drivers like aerospace, defense, STEM and manufacturing. It has been nicknamed "The Town Rocket Scientists Built" and boasts the second-highest concentration of PhDs per capita in the country. That skilled population helps feed a culturally vibrant community with top-notch arts, entertainment and dining scenes. Plus, Huntsville offers outdoor recreation aplenty with over 60 parks and greenways networked throughout the region. It's a perfect balance for remote professionals who cherish career flexibility without sacrificing urban vitality.

Greenville, South Carolina - Greenville exemplifies the appealing blend of economic dynamism and natural splendor many remote workers crave. Its revitalized downtown is a hotspot of locally owned shops, restaurants and businesses, while the Reedy River rushing through the heart of the city offers waterfront green spaces. Beyond the charming aesthetic, Greenville has substance as a hub for manufacturing, healthcare and business services companies. The region's pro-business policies, investor tax credits and well-regarded universities continually replenish the skilled workforce. With a median housing cost of about 28% less than Raleigh, Greenville represents an attractive destination for remote workers to tap into professional opportunities without hemorrhaging income on housing.

Downtown Greenville

In the Heartland

Tulsa, Oklahoma - Nicknamed "The Oil Capital of the World," Tulsa has undergone a remarkable transformation, evolving into a haven for young professionals, artists and entrepreneurs. The city boasts a lower cost of living than Raleigh, a thriving art deco district and a vibrant music scene. Tulsa's commitment to innovation is evident in its burgeoning tech scene and co-working spaces like 36 Degrees North. Outdoor enthusiasts will find ample opportunities for exploration with nearby lakes, rivers and hiking trails. Tulsa also partners with MakeMyMove offering remote workers relocation assistance in incentives worth over $10,000, including a grant that can be used for moving costs and housing.

Visit Gathering Place, USA Today's Best City Park

Indianapolis, Indiana - Often overlooked, Indianapolis offers a surprisingly affordable and vibrant city experience. The city boasts a thriving cultural scene with world-class museums, a lively music scene and a renowned professional sports complex Lucas Oil Stadium. Indianapolis offers ample green space with a network of parks and trails perfect for outdoor recreation. Additionally, the city is a short drive from several beautiful lakes, providing opportunities for boating, fishing and swimming.

Eagle Creek Reservoir

Pocahontas County, Iowa - Remote workers who love Raleigh's balance between bustling energy and Southern charm might find a surprising haven in Pocahontas County, Iowa. While Raleigh offers the excitement of a state capital and a growing tech scene, Pocahontas County provides a peaceful escape with a strong sense of community. For those seeking a more affordable lifestyle, Pocahontas County delivers significantly lower housing costs. Yet, outdoor enthusiasts will find common ground in both locations. Raleigh boasts parks and greenways, while Pocahontas County offers stunning natural beauty with rolling hills, abundant wildlife, and opportunities for hiking, fishing and exploring the serene landscapes of the Midwest. Pocahontas County also decided to partner with MakeMyMove recently and will be offering remote workers incentives for relocation there.

Sunset Park

Finding the Perfect Fit

The ideal remote work haven hinges on your priorities. Consider these factors when narrowing down your search.

History Buffs - Explore cities like Greenville or Knoxville with their Civil War history.
Art Aficionados - Consider Indianapolis with its renowned museums or Tulsa with its art deco district.
Outdoor Enthusiasts - Research communities like Knoxville with access to the Smokies or Tulsa with its nearby lakes and trails.

When compared to Raleigh, each of these cities offers its unique flavor and spin on the ingredients that make the capital of North Carolina so appealing for remote professionals – affordability, economic opportunity, quality of life amenities and a sense of community. While your perfect fit may depend on individual priorities, they're all emblematic of how the rise of remote work has empowered employees to seek out locales that harmonize their personal and professional aspirations. These cities are making strong cases to become the next hometowns for the virtual workforce

About MakeMyMove

Remote work has freed millions of Americans to live where they want, and many are making the move to places that better match their lifestyle. In turn, cities and towns across the country are offering incentives like cash, perks and programming to remote workers who move and work from their communities. At MakeMyMove, you can explore all the places, get personalized help to find the one that’s right for you, connect with locals, and access support to make your move a piece of cake.