Ditch the car and explore these vibrant cities where you can wander with ease.
For digital nomads, a city’s walkability isn’t just about avoiding traffic—it’s about creating a lifestyle where everything is close and easily accessible. The best cities allow remote workers to step out their door and find a cozy café, a lively public space, or a scenic walking route without the hassle of driving. Instead of spending hours commuting, nomads in these places can focus on what matters most: working, exploring, and making the most of their surroundings.
Some cities stand out for their pedestrian-friendly design, efficient public transit, and vibrant neighborhoods full of coworking spots and social hubs. Whether you thrive in a fast-paced metropolis or a laid-back, mid-sized city, these 11 destinations make it easy to live, work, and explore without ever needing a car.
1. The city that never stops moving is best explored on foot.
New York isn’t just walkable—it’s built for it. Streets are lined with 24-hour coffee shops, coworking spaces, and corner stores, all within easy reach. Whether you’re grabbing a morning espresso in the West Village or heading to a meeting in SoHo, a car is the last thing you’ll need. In fact, over half of New York City households don’t own a car, relying instead on public transportation and walkability.
Longer trips are just as easy with the city’s massive subway system. The energy here is unmatched, and for digital nomads who love to stay on the go, there’s no better place to embrace a fast-paced, car-free lifestyle.
2. Traffic headaches make walking the best choice in San Francisco.
Owning a car in San Francisco often feels like more trouble than it’s worth. Between steep hills, limited parking, and constant congestion, most locals prefer to walk—and for good reason. The best neighborhoods, like North Beach and the Mission, pack plenty of work-friendly cafés, restaurants, and green spaces into a small footprint.
San Francisco consistently ranks among the most walkable cities in the U.S. The scenic streets and mild weather make walking enjoyable year-round. And when your legs need a break, BART and Muni offer reliable connections across the city.
3. A compact design makes Boston easy to explore.
Navigating Boston without a car feels effortless. With its pedestrian-friendly layout, it’s simple to move from a coworking space in Back Bay to a lunch spot in the North End without much effort. The city’s historic street grid dates back to the 17th century, making it one of the easiest places in the U.S. to explore on foot.
For digital nomads who like to mix work with exploration, the city’s historic trails, riverside parks, and thriving business districts offer plenty of options. The subway system makes longer trips a breeze, but most days, you won’t need anything but a good pair of shoes.
4. Getting around D.C. is faster on foot.
With its grid-style layout and wide sidewalks, Washington, D.C. makes walking the most efficient way to get around. Whether it’s a morning work session in Dupont Circle or a quick stroll to a nearby museum, everything feels within reach.
For longer distances, the Metro is one of the most reliable transit systems in the country. And with so many green spaces, iconic landmarks, and vibrant neighborhoods to explore, there’s always something new to discover just a short walk away.
5. The best way to experience Portland is by walking its creative streets.
Portland is the kind of city where wandering leads to the best discoveries. The Pearl District, Hawthorne, and Alberta are filled with work-friendly coffee shops, bookstores, and coworking spaces that feel more like community hubs.
While biking is a popular alternative, most locals find that walking is the best way to enjoy the city’s relaxed energy. And with public transit as a backup, there’s no reason to worry about getting anywhere on time.
6. A pedestrian-friendly layout keeps Chicago easy to navigate.
Despite its size, Chicago makes it easy to live without a car. Neighborhoods like the Loop and Wicker Park are packed with coworking spaces, restaurants, and coffee shops, all within walking distance.
The L train provides quick access to other parts of the city, but for many digital nomads, walking is the best way to experience the local energy. With lakefront trails and open parks throughout the city, it’s easy to balance work with outdoor time.
7. Public transit and walkable districts make Seattle ideal for car-free living.
Not every part of Seattle is easy to navigate on foot, but its most popular neighborhoods, like Capitol Hill and Fremont, make car-free living simple. Coffee shops, remote-work-friendly cafés, and public parks are always within reach, making it a great choice for digital nomads.
Public transit helps fill in the gaps, and for those who love fresh air, the waterfront trails offer some of the best walking routes in the city.
8. A well-planned grid makes Philadelphia one of the easiest cities to explore.
With lively neighborhoods and a layout that’s simple to navigate, Philly is a dream for those who love to walk. Moving between Rittenhouse Square, Old City, and South Street takes no time at all, with plenty of work-friendly cafés and cultural spots along the way.
Public transit is an option, but most digital nomads find walking to be the best way to soak in the city’s energy. With so many hidden gems tucked into each neighborhood, there’s always something new to stumble upon.
9. Investment in pedestrian infrastructure keeps Denver moving forward.
Over the years, Denver has expanded its walkable neighborhoods, making it easier than ever to live without a car. LoDo and RiNo offer workspaces, restaurants, and plenty of local markets, all within a short walk.
Walking is the best way to enjoy the city’s creative energy, but public transit is always available when needed. With mountain views in the background, every stroll feels like a mix of urban excitement and outdoor adventure.
10. Wandering through New Orleans is part of the experience.
New Orleans is a city that rewards slow exploration. Whether you’re walking through the French Quarter, checking out a street performance, or grabbing beignets at a café, it’s the kind of place where getting lost on foot is half the fun.
Streetcars provide a scenic alternative when you need a break, but most people find that walking is the best way to take in the city’s culture. For digital nomads looking for a lively, car-free lifestyle, this city delivers.
11. Small but mighty, Asheville proves big cities aren’t the only walkable option.
A smaller footprint doesn’t mean less convenience. Asheville’s downtown is packed with coffee shops, independent stores, and creative spaces that make it easy to live and work without a car.
Surrounded by mountains and fresh air, every walk feels like a chance to unwind. With everything nearby, digital nomads can settle in and enjoy a slower, more intentional pace of life.