Gloucester has been crowned the UK’s top city for remote working, thanks to its affordable housing, appealing city centre, and easy access to beautiful countryside for relaxing midday breaks.
A comprehensive study by payment provider Dojo evaluated various key factors important to remote workers, including rental costs, post office availability, and business survival rates. Gloucester emerged as the best location for entrepreneurs running laptop-based businesses, narrowly beating Norwich and Southampton, with Carlisle and Swansea completing the top five.
In January 2026, average private rental prices in Gloucester were £1,069, while three-bedroom homes could be purchased for under £200,000, according to Rightmove data—making it an economical choice for residents. The city also boasts a five-year start-up survival rate of 43%, supported by strong local business networks that foster success for new ventures.
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Council-backed initiatives have revitalized areas like The Forum in Kings Quarter, where multi-million-pound regeneration efforts have created co-working spaces and modern offices, offering remote workers alternatives to working solely from home. Nearby Gloucester Quays provides a vibrant waterside environment filled with shops, cafes, and eateries—ideal for a relaxing lunch break.
Connectivity is another major draw: 88% of the Gloucester region benefits from ultrafast broadband speeds exceeding 100 Mbps, a critical factor for efficient remote work.
For those visiting or living in Gloucester, the city’s rich history and local attractions add to its charm. Gloucester Cathedral, dating back to the 11th century and the resting place of King Edward II, is a must-see. The National Waterways Museum offers a glimpse into the city’s maritime heritage with vintage narrowboats and a replica lock system.
Art lovers will appreciate Nature in Art, an exceptional outdoor trail featuring paintings and sculptures set within the grounds of a 17th-century mansion. Nature enthusiasts also benefit from Gloucester’s proximity to the Cotswolds, an area renowned for rolling green hills and picturesque villages.
Just a short trip outside the city are peaceful country walks and welcoming pubs perfect for unwinding after work or on weekends. Haresfield Beacon, south of Gloucester, offers a scenic one-mile circular walk through woodland and grassland with stunning panoramic views.
Nearby WWT Slimbridge, located on the banks of the River Severn, is a wildlife reserve home to swans, otters, and other wetland species. Visitors can explore the reserve up close with a canoe safari, paddling through tranquil waterways to observe nature in its purest form.
Gloucester combines affordability, connectivity, culture, and nature, making it the ultimate destination for remote workers seeking balance and opportunity.