By Franco Quarta
Since 2020, the rise of remote and hybrid working has transformed how we work, giving employees the flexibility to choose where and how they perform their jobs. As businesses adapt to this shift, some cities in the United Kingdom are proving to be better suited for remote working than others.
New research shows that Scotland is leading the way, with Dunfermline ranking as one of the best cities for remote working in the UK in 2025. Additionally, three more Scottish cities—Aberdeen, Dundee, and Perth—have secured spots in the UK’s top 10.
Dunfermline tops the UK remote working rankings for best city
According to research by Dojo, Dunfermline is the UK’s number one city for remote working in 2025, outperforming 75 other locations. The rankings were based on key factors such as internet speed, security, level of internet freedom, and overall quality of life.
Dunfermline received an index score of 35.6/100 and stands out at the top of the list with a high quality of life score of 226.77.
Despite having a lower internet speed compared to other UK locations, and a higher cost of living compared to some other Scottish cities, Dunfermline’s made it to the top of the list for the best city for remote working in the UK.
Top cities for remote working in the UK
Scotland’s appeal to remote workers goes beyond Dunfermline. Several other cities offer strong infrastructure, affordable living, and a great quality of life.
- Aberdeen – With a lower quality of life at 208.59, Aberdeen received an index score of 34.8/100 and just beat Newcastle-upon-Tyne and York to the number three spot.
- Dundee – Dundee reached number six on the top ten list and tied with Perth and Milton Keynes for index score (34.4/100)
- Perth – Just making the list at number seven, Perth beat Milton Keynes, Belfast, and Lisburn as the best cities for remote workers in the UK.
These cities, combined with Dunfermline, make Scotland one of the best cities for remote work in the UK.
Here is the full list of UK cities that made the top 10:
- Dunfermline
- Chester
- Aberdeen
- Newcastle-upon-Tyne
- York
- Dundee
- Perth
- Milton Keynes
- Belfast
- Lisburn
The benefits of remote working: why it’s essential for businesses in 2025
Since the pandemic, remote working in the UK has become a permanent feature of the modern workplace. That’s because there are many benefits of remote working and businesses that fail to offer flexibility risk falling behind in the race for top talent.
Five years on from the start of the Covid-19 pandemic, despite the debate, it seems that hybrid working is here to stay for many workers. According to a study by the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD), hybrid working leads to:
- Higher employee engagement and motivation
- Increased productivity
- Better work-life balance
- Higher job satisfaction
Moreover, offering hybrid work is now essential for retaining employees. Many HR leaders report that candidates actively seek flexible roles and companies that don’t provide this flexibility struggle to attract top-tier talent.
As work routines become fully remote or hybrid, traditional office spaces must keep up with this change. Evolving physical workspaces is one of the latest hybrid office trends for 2025 as businesses shift away from rigid office designs and layouts. To follow the trend, many businesses are embracing more flexible and adaptable multifunctional office furniture to adapt to the changing workforce needs and support different working styles.
The risks of enforcing full-time office work
While remote working has become the norm for many, some companies are pushing for a full return to the office—often with negative consequences. As some businesses enforce a return to the office, the decision is leading many workers to seek new jobs.
A study by The Guardian and recruitment agency IWG found that:
- Two-thirds of recruiters have seen a rise in job seekers leaving companies that mandate full-time office work.
- Three-quarters of candidates now reject job offers that don’t include hybrid options.
- Businesses that remove flexibility are becoming less competitive in the job market.
Major corporations like Amazon and JP Morgan have moved away from hybrid strategies, demanding employees return to offices. However, smaller businesses risk alienating talent and increasing turnover if they follow suit.
Scotland has increased in popularity with digital nomads
Scotland not only topped the list of best UK cities for remote work in 2025 but is also becoming popular with digital nomads. Scotland is a great location for remote working because of its affordability and natural beauty. For instance, Edinburgh’s cost of living is approximately 28.1% lower than London’s and 46% lower than New York City’s, including rent.
This financial advantage, combined with Scotland’s picturesque landscapes, aligns with the evolving preferences of digital nomads who are increasingly embracing ‘slomading’—the practice of residing in one location for extended periods rather than relocating frequently.
Remote & hybrid work retains talent & boosts productivity
As businesses adapt to the post-pandemic landscape, hybrid work is no longer optional—it’s essential. Companies that embrace flexibility will attract better talent, improve employee satisfaction, and remain competitive in a changing job market. With its excellent quality of life, affordability, and growing appeal for digital nomads, Scotland is a smart choice for many remote workers right now.
