Rural Coworking Spaces: What They Are and How They Differ from Urban Coworking

The rise of remote work has opened up new possibilities for many professionals. One of these is the opportunity to work from rural coworking spaces—shared work environments located in villages or less populated areas outside the city. These spaces offer a relaxing setting where time seems to move at a different pace.

In recent years, particularly in Spain, the demand for rural coworking spaces has steadily increased. With many professionals no longer tied to a specific location for work, these spaces have become an attractive option. They also serve as an ideal destination for digital nomads seeking nature and unique experiences away from their usual urban surroundings.

What Is a Rural Coworking Space?

A rural coworking space is a functional and collaborative workplace, usually shared by independent professionals and situated in small towns or villages. What sets it apart most is its location in a peaceful, natural, and less crowded setting.

These communal working environments foster a sense of community and encourage collaboration between different initiatives. It’s not uncommon for a digital nomad to spend time working in an urban coworking space in central Madrid, then move to a rural coworking space in Catalonia, and later relocate to another in Galicia—or vice versa.

Who Uses Rural Coworking Spaces?

In Spain, rural coworking spaces are predominantly used by self-employed professionals and freelancers, with relatively few corporate employees compared to urban coworking spaces.

Following the 2020 pandemic, the search for rural coworking spaces has increased significantly, as many professionals see them as a way to balance work with well-being.

Users of these spaces often come from sectors such as ICT, engineering, and communications. Tourism professionals and graphic artists have also been drawn to the relaxed atmosphere of rural settings.

How Do Rural and Urban Coworking Spaces Differ?

Both rural coworking spaces and their urban counterparts provide functional, collaborative environments designed for effective, high-quality work. They also encourage networking and community-building. However, each type caters to different needs and expectations. Let’s explore their key differences.

Size of the Spaces

Rural coworking spaces tend to be smaller than urban ones. They are often repurposed municipal buildings or renovated village houses, typically offering between six and ten workstations.

This smaller scale is part of their charm. The tranquillity, the quiet, and the close-knit community make them unique. With fewer members, relationships—both professional and personal—are stronger. These spaces are ideal for local independent professionals and digital nomads looking for a different way to work.

Cost

A major advantage of a rural coworking space is it’s affordability. Lower property costs in rural areas mean significantly reduced fees compared to urban coworking spaces.

Many rural coworking spaces receive support from local councils, either in the form of financial assistance or by providing free access to premises.

To attract more users, these spaces often offer more than just a place to work. They integrate leisure activities that make the experience even more appealing.

Associated Benefits

Different settings come with different perks. While urban coworking spaces often offer restaurant discounts, rural coworking spaces tend to focus on outdoor activities.

For instance, a rural coworking space in the Catalan Pyrenees might offer 20% off canyoning or rafting—an attractive incentive for professionals looking for more than just a desk.

Pros and Cons of Rural Coworking Spaces

Thinking about joining a rural coworking space near you? Or perhaps you’re a digital nomad eager to work in a peaceful, natural setting? Let’s weigh up the key advantages and drawbacks.

Advantages:

• Shorter commute times.
• Smaller spaces foster stronger professional and personal connections.
• Helps revitalise the smart countryside and combat rural depopulation.
• Quiet atmosphere in a natural setting.
• Lower costs.
• Easy access to outdoor activities and discounts on local experiences.

Disadvantages:

• Limited capacity.
• Fewer networking opportunities.
• Distance from major business hubs and events.
• Less convenient for client meetings.
• Fewer options for workspace variety.

Should You Choose a Rural or Urban Coworking Space?

Your choice depends on your specific needs. If you work in a corporate setting, rely on networking, or frequently attend events, an urban coworking space is likely the better option.

However, if you’re a freelancer or digital nomad looking for a peaceful and natural environment—without the need for frequent client meetings—then a rural coworking space is a fantastic choice. While the networking opportunities may be fewer, they are often more meaningful.

Conclusion

The world of work has changed. For years, many skilled professionals moved to big cities in search of career opportunities. Today, many are reversing this trend, relocating to villages in pursuit of a better quality of life.

Remote work makes this possible. As a result, the future of rural coworking spaces looks promising—especially in rural areas where depopulation remains a pressing issue.