15 INCREDIBLE Cities for Digital Nomads in 2025

Jon Miksis Jon Miksis clock Updated August 15, 2025 tourism Community-Based Travel
by Jon Miksis
Beautiful digital nomad cafe overlooking Prague
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As a travel blogger who spends 5-6 months a year exploring the world, I’ve worked from some of the best digital nomad hubs on the planet. From buzzing coworking spaces in Southeast Asia to laid-back beach towns in Europe, I’ve seen what makes a city perfect for remote work.

In this guide to the 15 most incredible cities for digital nomads in 2025, I’ve handpicked destinations that deliver on fast Wi-Fi, vibrant communities, and inspiring vibes. Whether it’s the café culture of Lisbon, the cost-effectiveness of Medellín, or the tropical charm of Bali, these cities have it all. Ready to pack your laptop and live the dream? Let’s dive into the ultimate digital nomad hotspots by continent for 2025!

Digital nomad cities for bloggers

Best cities for digital nomads in South America

In the world of digital nomads, South America is an undeniable classic. This region of the world was one of the first to see a boom in digital nomad lifestyles, and is still one of the most popular – for good reason! Especially popular among Americans and Canadians, heading south rewards young professionals with excellent climates, adventurous travel, and high quality of living at a fraction of the cost. But South America is a large continent, and you can’t exactly plug that into your GPS. Let’s look at some of the best places to head to!

Medellín, Colombia

Medellín is basically the undisputed king of the digital nomad world right now, and honestly, I get why everyone’s obsessed. The city’s got this incredible energy where locals actually welcome nomads (unlike some places that are getting burned out), plus you’re looking at around $800-1,500 per month for a solid lifestyle including rent, food, and coworking spaces.

I spent three weeks working from different spots in El Poblado and Laureles, and the infrastructure blew me away. We’re talking 200-500 Mbps internet speeds at most coworking spaces, with monthly memberships running $75-100. Places like Selina Cowork, Tinkko, and WeWork Medellín are constantly buzzing with nomads from everywhere. The metro system actually works (shocking for South America), and getting around costs practically nothing.

What really sold me was Colombia’s new digital nomad visa – you can legally stay for up to two years with just proof of $995 monthly income. The weather’s perfect year-round thanks to being in the mountains, and you’re surrounded by this stunning valley backdrop. Sure, people still ask about safety, but stick to the main nomad neighborhoods and you’ll be fine. Most digital nomads I met were spending way more time worrying about which café to work from than any security issues.

Medellin, Colombia is the most popular city for digital nomads in South America
Medellin reigns supreme as the ultimate destination for digital nomads.

Buenos Aires, Argentina

Buenos Aires is having a major moment right now, and it’s not just because of the favorable exchange rate (though that definitely helps). This city’s got serious digital nomad infrastructure with coworking spaces like La Maquinita Co., Urban Station, and Selina Palermo popping up everywhere, especially in Palermo and Recoleta.

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I was genuinely surprised by how nomad-friendly the city has become. Argentina launched their digital nomad visa in 2024, letting you stay for 180 days with the option to renew for another 180 days. The government’s even throwing in welcome perks like airport transfer discounts and SIM cards when you arrive. Palermo Soho and Palermo Hollywood are absolutely crawling with remote workers, and monthly coworking passes run around $60.

The cost of living is ridiculously affordable if you’re earning in USD – we’re talking $400-1,085 per month for basic expenses excluding rent. I found great apartments in decent neighborhoods for $350-450 monthly on Airbnb. The café culture is incredible, with places like Pergamino and Hija Mía having wifi that’s actually reliable. Plus, you’re perfectly positioned to explore the rest of South America when you need a break from the city’s intense energy.

street view of downton buenos aires, argentina
The capital of Argentinian culture, Buenos Aires is a great option for aspiring digital nomads.

Best cities for digital nomads in Asia

Here are some of the best places for digital nomads across Asia:

Bangkok, Thailand

Bangkok is the ultimate digital nomad gateway to Southeast Asia, and the new Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) makes it even better. For just $275, you get a five-year visa allowing 180-day stays (extendable to 360 days annually). The city’s coworking scene is insane – The Hive, WeWork, and True Digital Park offer everything from hot desks to private offices.

I actually loved the chaos of working from Bangkok. The BTS Skytrain and MRT make getting around surprisingly easy, and fiber internet is standard in most apartments and coworking spaces (200-500 Mbps is typical). You can live comfortably on $1,500-2,500 monthly, including rent in areas like Sukhumvit or Sathorn. Street food costs literally $2-3 per meal, and even high-end restaurants won’t break the bank.

What makes Bangkok special is how connected it is. You can catch weekend flights to Chiang Mai, Phuket, or even Bali for under $100. The city never sleeps, so whether you’re working late or need 24/7 coworking access, you’re covered. The only downside is the traffic, but honestly, you’ll be taking the Skytrain everywhere anyway. The healthcare system is world-class too – something most nomads don’t think about until they need it.

nighttime skyline of bangkok, digital nomad destination
An increasingly popular city in Southeast Asia, Bangkok might be calling your name.

Chiang Mai, Thailand

Chiang Mai remains the gold standard for affordable digital nomad living, and after spending three months there, I can confirm the hype is real. You can easily live well on $1,000-1,100 monthly, including everything from accommodation to daily coworking space access. The Nimman area is digital nomad central, packed with spots like Punspace, CAMP, and Yellow Coworking where monthly memberships run $75-116.

The community aspect here is unmatched. I met nomads from literally every continent at spaces like Heartwork and One Workspace, which offers 24-hour access for serious grinders. The café scene is incredible too – places like Akha Ama and Bob Coffee have reliable wifi and aren’t just tourist traps. You can rent a modern apartment in Nimman for $350-500 monthly, or go budget with long-term condo rentals starting at $250.

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The big caveat? Avoid February through April (burning season) when air quality gets pretty brutal. But the rest of the year, you’re looking at perfect weather, amazing Thai food for $2-5 per meal, and scooter rentals at $90 monthly. I was honestly more productive in Chiang Mai than I’d been anywhere else – there’s just something about that mountain energy that keeps you focused.

Ubud, Bali, Indonesia

Ubud is where you go when you want to feel like you’re working from a jungle paradise, and honestly, the Instagram posts don’t lie. This place is pure magic for digital nomads seeking that spiritual/wellness vibe while still getting actual work done. Outpost Ubud and Hubud are the main coworking spots, with day passes around $15-20 and monthly memberships hitting $200-300.

I loved working from cafés like Seniman Coffee and Clear Café – places where you can nurse a single coffee for hours while surrounded by rice fields. The cost of living is super reasonable at $700-1,200 monthly for a single person, including accommodation. You can find private villas with pools for $1,000-1,500 monthly, or go budget with shared spaces starting at $400.

What makes Ubud special is the work-life balance. You can finish work, then hit a yoga class, get a $10 massage, or explore waterfalls and temples. The downside? Transportation is a nightmare – you really need a scooter to get anywhere, and traffic can be intense. Also, it’s definitely more mellow than beach towns like Canggu, so if you need nightlife to decompress, you might get bored. But for productivity and mental health, Ubud is unbeatable.

Temple on the waterfront in Bali, Indonesia.
Bali is world-renowned for its natural and cultural beauty.

Canggu, Bali, Indonesia

Canggu is basically what happens when you mix Silicon Valley ambition with surf culture, and I’m totally here for it. This beach town has become digital nomad headquarters in Bali, with coworking spaces like Dojo Bali leading the scene. Day passes run around $15-20, and the networking events are constant – you’ll meet everyone from crypto traders to e-commerce founders.

I spent two months based here, and the work-life balance is addictive. You can crush a productive morning at Crate Café or The Lawn, then surf or grab sunset drinks at La Brisa. Monthly living costs hit $1,500-3,000 depending on your lifestyle – shared coliving spaces start at $400, while private beachfront villas can run $2,000+. Food ranges from $2 warungs to $20 Western restaurants.

The community is intense though – everyone’s hustling on their startup or travel blog, which can get overwhelming. Traffic is absolutely brutal during peak hours, and prices have definitely inflated due to nomad popularity. But there’s something about working steps from black sand beaches that makes the hassles worth it. Just be prepared for constant networking requests and people pitching their latest project at every café.

Best cities for digital nomads in Europe

Here are some of the best places to be a digital nomad across Europe:

Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon has become Europe’s digital nomad darling, and after six months there, I completely understand why. The city offers EU access with significantly lower costs than Paris or Amsterdam – you can live comfortably on $1,500-2,500 monthly. The coworking scene is thriving with spaces like Second Home, LACS, and Cowork Central offering memberships around €150-300 monthly.

What hooked me was the perfect blend of old-world charm and startup energy. You can work from beautiful tiled cafés in Chiado or modern coworking spaces in Príncipe Real, then hit incredible seafood restaurants for dinner. The tram system is charming (if slow), and most neighborhoods are walkable. Plus, you’re an hour flight from anywhere in Europe for weekend trips.

I found the nomad community really welcoming – there are constant meetups, and locals generally speak excellent English. Cais do Sodré and Santos have become nomad central, with tons of short-term apartment rentals. The weather’s great most of the year, and Portuguese bureaucracy is surprisingly manageable compared to other EU countries. Just be prepared for some steep hills and the fact that dinner doesn’t start until 9 PM.

streetcar making its way up the hills of Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon is a classic tourist destination in Europe – is it your next home?

Porto, Portugal

Porto is Lisbon’s cooler, more affordable little sister, and honestly, I liked it even more. The cost of living is about 20-30% lower than the capital, with excellent apartments available for €600-1,000 monthly. The coworking scene is smaller but growing, with spots like Maus Hábitos and Matéria Prima creating tight-knit communities rather than massive corporate spaces.

I loved the authenticity here – this feels like real Portugal, not just a nomad playground. The Ribeira district is UNESCO-listed gorgeous, and you can work from cafés overlooking the Douro River. The food scene is incredible and cheap – think €8-12 for amazing meals at local spots. Plus, you’re perfectly positioned for day trips to the Douro Valley or quick escapes to Spain.

The nomad community is more intimate than Lisbon, which I actually preferred. People stay longer and form real friendships rather than just networking. The only downside is fewer direct flights compared to Lisbon, but honestly, that keeps it from getting oversaturated with tourists. If you want authentic European charm without London prices, Porto delivers big time.

Faro, Portugal

Faro is Portugal’s best-kept secret for nomads who want Algarve beaches without the touristy chaos. As the region’s capital, it has proper infrastructure including an international airport and reliable internet, but maintains a relaxed, local vibe. I found modern apartments for €400-700 monthly, significantly cheaper than coastal resort towns.

The coworking options are limited but growing, with Ria Formosa Coworking being the main spot. Most nomads work from cafés around the old town or rent apartments with dedicated office spaces. What sold me was the location – you’re minutes from stunning beaches like Praia de Faro, but also close to charming towns like Tavira and Lagos for weekend exploration.

The international airport is a huge plus for European travel, and there’s a surprising tech scene emerging. I met developers and marketers who’d relocated from Lisbon seeking lower costs and better work-life balance. The food is fantastic and affordable, especially seafood. Just be aware it’s very quiet compared to major nomad hubs – great for productivity, but you might miss the constant networking energy of bigger cities.

Tallinn, Estonia

Tallinn completely exceeded my expectations and might be Europe’s most underrated digital nomad destination. This Baltic gem offers EU access, incredibly fast internet (Estonia is basically one giant WiFi zone), and costs that are still reasonable compared to Western Europe. You can live well on €1,200-2,000 monthly, including rent in the medieval old town.

I was blown away by the tech infrastructure – Estonia invented Skype and has been digital-first for decades. Coworking spaces like Lift99 and Tehnopol cater to serious tech nomads, with monthly memberships around €150-250. The startup scene is legit, and I met nomads working for unicorns based here. Plus, Estonia’s e-Residency program lets you actually start an EU company online.

The old town is like working inside a fairy tale, but with fiber internet and craft coffee. Winters are brutal (think four hours of daylight in December), but summers are magical with white nights and outdoor festivals. The nomad community is small but high-quality – lots of developers and entrepreneurs rather than lifestyle bloggers. If you can handle the cold and want serious productivity, Tallinn is incredible.

Cobblestoned streets in Tallinn Estonia entertain digital nomads.
Get lost in Tallinn’s Old Town when you’re not hard at work!

Want to live in Europe on a budget?

Budapest, Hungary

Budapest offers big-city energy at developing-world prices, making it perfect for nomads who want European culture without draining their savings. I lived there for four months and spent around $1,200-1,800 monthly including rent in central Pest. The coworking scene is solid with spaces like Kaptár, Design Terminal, and LOFFICE offering memberships for €100-200 monthly.

What I loved most was the split personality – Buda side for historic charm and castle views, Pest side for nightlife and coworking spaces. The thermal baths are perfect for decompressing after long work days, and the ruin bar scene is legendary. You can eat incredibly well for €5-10 per meal, and local wine is both cheap and excellent.

The nomad community tends to be more diverse than Western European cities, with lots of people from the US, Asia, and other EU countries. English is widely spoken in the central areas, and the public transport is excellent. The only downside is Hungarian language difficulty if you want to interact with locals, but for short-term stays, it’s not an issue. Budapest gives you European sophistication without the typical European price tag.

Budapest, Hungary from the riverfront.
Budapest is a jewel of Eastern Europe, and a great locale for digital nomads.

Best cities for digital nomads in North America

Here are some of the best places for digital nomads across North America. This includes the US, Mexico, and Canada.

Mexico City, Mexico

Mexico City is absolutely exploding with digital nomads right now, and I can see why everyone’s making the move. The cost of living is ridiculously good – I was spending $1,200-1,800 monthly for a great lifestyle including coworking memberships at spots like Centraal and WeWork. The neighborhoods of Roma Norte, Condesa, and Polanco are packed with remote workers from the US and Europe.

What shocked me was the quality of the food scene and cultural offerings. This isn’t some small expat bubble – you’re living in one of the world’s great cities with incredible museums, restaurants, and nightlife. The coworking spaces are world-class, and many cafés like Starbucks Reserve and Café Negro have adapted to nomad culture with reliable wifi and laptop-friendly setups.

I found the local Mexican community really welcoming to nomads, probably because many are drawn by the city’s own tech scene. Getting around is easy with Uber everywhere, and you’re perfectly positioned for weekend trips to Tulum, Guadalajara, or even quick flights to the US. The only adjustment is the altitude – it took me a week to get used to being at 7,300 feet. But honestly, the energy of this massive, creative city is addictive.

Americans looking to go south may find themselves living and working in Mexico City.

Austin, Texas

Austin is probably the most nomad-friendly city in America, especially if you’re coming from abroad and want to test the waters of US remote work culture. The city’s been embracing digital nomads hard, with coworking spaces like Capital Factory and WeWork offering drop-in rates and networking events practically every night. You’re looking at $2,000-3,500 monthly for a decent lifestyle, which is steep but reasonable for US standards.

I loved the energy here – it feels like a big city with small-town friendliness. The tech scene is legitimate (lots of companies relocating from Silicon Valley), and there’s constant startup events and meetups. South by Southwest in March is basically a nomad reunion. The food truck culture is perfect for working lunch breaks, and the live music scene gives you solid options for decompressing.

What makes Austin special for international nomads is how connected it is – direct flights to Mexico, Europe, and obviously anywhere in the US. The weather’s great except for brutal summers, and you can easily do weekend trips to San Antonio, Houston, or Dallas. Just be prepared for car culture and higher costs than nomad havens in Latin America or Asia. But if you need US business hours and English-speaking infrastructure, Austin delivers.

capital building in austin, texas, hub for digital nomads.
Austin is the capital of Texas, and the coolest and most happening city in the state.

Vancouver, Canada

Vancouver is expensive as hell, but if you can swing it, the quality of life is unmatched. I spent five months there and was averaging $3,000-4,500 monthly including rent in neighborhoods like Yaletown or Gastown. The coworking scene is mature with spaces like The Network Hub and WeWork offering solid communities of tech workers and entrepreneurs.

What hooked me was the outdoor access – you can finish work and be hiking, skiing, or kayaking within 30 minutes. The city’s got serious tech infrastructure (lots of companies have Vancouver offices), and the startup scene is growing. Plus, healthcare and social services actually work if you’re there long-term. English Bay and False Creek offer waterfront working spots that beat any café.

The nomad community tends to be more established – people with serious businesses rather than just starting out. I met folks who’d relocated from San Francisco seeking better work-life balance. The winters are mild by Canadian standards, and summers are absolutely perfect. The downsides are obvious – insane housing costs and generally expensive everything. But if you’re earning North American salaries and want outdoor paradise, Vancouver is worth the splurge.

Aerial shot of vancouver, the best digital nomad city in Canada.
Vancouver is one of the best cities in Canada to work remotely in.

Best cities for digital nomads in Oceania

Oceania has no shortage of best places for digital nomads. Here are the cities and destinations that stand out among the rest:

Perth, Australia

Perth is probably the world’s most isolated major city, which sounds terrible but actually creates this amazing focused energy. I spent three months there and loved how removed it felt from typical nomad circuits – you really commit to the place rather than treating it as another Instagram stop. The cost of living is high ($2,500-4,000 monthly), but the quality of life and work infrastructure are excellent.

The coworking scene is smaller but high-quality, with spaces like Spacecubed and The Hive focusing on tech startups and established remote workers. What I found unique was the beach access – Cottesloe and Scarborough beaches are gorgeous and have cafés where you can actually work with ocean views. The city’s got a legitimate arts and food scene that doesn’t feel touristy.

I was surprised by the nomad community quality – lots of people building serious businesses rather than just traveling. The timezone works well for Asian business hours, and you’re positioned for easy travel to Indonesia, Singapore, and New Zealand. The isolation actually became a feature – fewer distractions, more focus on work and exploring Western Australia’s incredible nature. Just be prepared for everything being expensive and limited flight connections.

View of Perth, Australia, the most unique digital nomad city.
Perth sits on Australia’s western coast as one of the most unique cities for digital nomads.

Best cities for digital nomads in Africa

Some of the best digital nomad destinations are also found in Africa. Here are the top digital nomad places you should know about:

Tunis, Tunisia

Tunis is Africa’s most underrated nomad destination, offering Mediterranean vibes at developing-world prices. I spent six weeks there and was amazed by the infrastructure – reliable internet, great coworking spaces like Cogite and The Spot, and monthly costs around $800-1,200 including rent in neighborhoods like Sidi Bou Said or central Tunis.

What made it special was the cultural richness – you’re working in a city with 3,000 years of history, surrounded by Carthaginian ruins and Ottoman architecture. The coworking community is small but tight-knit, mostly European nomads and local entrepreneurs. Sidi Bou Said is like working in Santorini but without the crowds and costs.

The food scene is incredible and cheap – amazing Mediterranean and North African cuisine for $3-8 per meal. You’re also perfectly positioned for weekend trips to Sahara oases or Mediterranean beaches. The only challenges are language barriers outside tourist areas and limited coworking options compared to major nomad hubs. But for cultural immersion and affordability, Tunisia offers something totally unique.

Sidi Bou Said, one of the most beautiful neighborhoods in Tunis, Tunisia, where many digital nomads stay in the city.
Interested in visiting Tunisia and want to learn more?

Nairobi, Kenya

Nairobi is exploding as East Africa’s tech hub, and the digital nomad infrastructure is improving rapidly. I was impressed by coworking spaces like iHub and Nailab that cater to both international nomads and local entrepreneurs. Monthly costs run $1,000-1,800, reasonable considering the quality of life and growth opportunities.

What excited me most was the entrepreneurial energy – this feels like a city on the rise, with legitimate startups and international companies setting up operations. English is widely spoken, the internet is surprisingly reliable in business districts, and you’re surrounded by incredible African culture and nature. Weekend safari trips are obviously a massive perk.

The nomad community is still developing but growing fast, particularly in areas like Westlands and Karen. I found locals incredibly welcoming and interested in collaboration rather than just seeing nomads as tourists. The challenges are real – traffic can be brutal, and you need to be smart about safety and neighborhood selection. But for nomads interested in emerging markets and African opportunities, Nairobi offers genuine business potential.

Safari scene from Kenya, great country for digital nomads, landscape with giraffe in front of mountain.
Nairobi makes for a great home base to explore all of the natural wonders of Kenya.

Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Town is hands-down one of the world’s most beautiful cities, and the nomad infrastructure has gotten seriously good. I spent four months there and never got tired of working with Table Mountain views. Coworking spaces like Workshop17 and The Creative Space offer excellent facilities and vibrant communities, with monthly memberships around $150-300.

The cost of living is fantastic – $1,200-2,500 monthly gets you a great lifestyle including rent in neighborhoods like Green Point or Woodstock. The wine culture is incredible (and cheap), the food scene rivals any international city, and you’re surrounded by world-class beaches and hiking. Plus, the timezone works well for European business hours.

What impressed me was the international community – nomads from everywhere, plus established expats and locals involved in the growing tech scene. The city feels cosmopolitan and progressive The challenges are safety concerns in certain areas and occasional infrastructure issues (load shedding during power outages). But honestly, working from a café in Camps Bay with ocean views makes most problems feel pretty minor.

Waterfront view of Cape Town, best digital nomad city for natural beauty.
Cape Town is famous for its natural beauty.

What is a digital nomad?

Digital nomads are the new generation of free spirits and work-from-anywhere enthusiasts who are breaking the mold of traditional 9-to-5 jobs. They are the workers and travelers of the 21st century. From graphic designers to copywriters, software engineers to marketers, digital nomads come from all types of professions and industries.

In recent years, tons of corporate jobs have erased their in-office requirements, and an increasing number are actively recruiting remote workers! This makes it a breeze to relocate, and set up shop anywhere in the world. Digital nomads are taking advantage of this opportunity to travel and work abroad, in exciting cities far from home.

Many remote workers and digital nomads may spend a month or two at a time in one city, explore the area and see as much as they can, and then head to their next home! However, many countries are now offering incentives and making it easier for digital nomads to relocate. Countries on every continent are creating their own visas specifically designed for remote workers. Some of them may even allow you to live there for years! 

Read also – The Nomad Escape: The World’s Best Retreat for Digital Nomads

Qualities of a digital nomad

But what makes a digital nomad unique is not just the type of job they have, but their personality and lifestyle as well. A digital nomad is someone who craves adventure, has a thirst for exploration, and is unafraid of taking risks. They are independent and self-motivated, often working on their own projects or managing their own businesses. They value experiences over material possessions, and prioritize travel and personal growth over stability and comfort.

Another common quality of digital nomads is their ability to adapt to new environments and cultures. They are highly flexible and adaptable, able to navigate new situations and solve problems on the fly. They are also highly social, often forming connections and communities with like-minded individuals in the cities they visit.

In short, digital nomads are the modern-day explorers and pioneers of the remote work revolution. They are an innovative and exciting group of individuals who are changing the way we think about work and travel. So if you have a strong sense of curiosity, a passion for adventure, and a willingness to take risks, perhaps the digital nomad lifestyle is right for you.

Looking to make the most of your daily grind?

What makes a good digital nomad city?

The beauty of being a digital nomad is that you can go anywhere you like! But realistically, there are some amenities you’ll need and characteristics you should look for in any city. Remember, you’ve got to be able to get yourself there and successfully live and work while you’re there. 

Accessibility of travel

Before you can work in a city far from home, there’s one major concern to consider. How do you get there? And once you’re there, can you get around? How easy is it to get back home or to your next destination? The best cities for digital nomads will be relatively close to international airports, train stations, and/or other centers of transportation. This is why you won’t see a lot of rural destinations on this list. While it might be fun to get off the grid, it does make the logistics significantly more challenging. Furthermore, the spirit of the digital nomad lifestyle is one of travel. To truly explore your surroundings, you’ll want at least a few good day or weekend trips accessible by public transportation. All of the digital nomad cities on this list are well connected and provide a wealth of opportunity for more travel. 

Digital nomad city Cape Town, South Africa.
Being a digital nomad allows you to explore many different parts of the world – like Cape Town!

Wifi / internet connection

In the 21st century, it’s pretty true that all you need to work is a laptop! However, you do need that laptop to work. That means that you’ll want to set up a home base somewhere with a consistent and strong internet connection, and wide access to Wifi. Whether it be in your accommodation, a coliving space, or a coworking cafe, Wifi makes the world go round.

There are countless databases online that will report on the internet quality in various cities and countries. Make sure to do your research before you make the move! Generally speaking, there are two things to make sure of. You’ll want to have reliable internet connections and cell service in the whole of the city, for mobile connections and phone calls, and at least a few places with strong Wifi that you can hunker down and send some emails!

Affordability

If you want to make the most of a digital nomad lifestyle, you’ll want to be living on a budget. One thing you’ll most certainly want to avoid is running out of money and having to come home early. The cities on this list are ones where you can make your dollar last! Costs of living vary greatly around the world, so find the city with the budget that’s right for you. In general, cities in Europe and North America are among the most expensive. That’s why so many digital nomads are migrating to South America and Southeast Asia. In these regions you’ll find the cheapest accommodation, food, and travel expenses. 

A digital nomad community

Moving halfway around the world is a great adventure. But it can also be hard. If you haven’t lived abroad before, it can be really challenging to navigate. Plus, leaving behind most of your friends and family is difficult. That’s why moving to a city where there’s already a lot of digital nomads can be incredibly helpful!

Not only will there be loads of resources and amenities, but there’ll also be a large community already in place. When adventuring around the world with people who have the same interests and priorities as you, it’s hard not to make (lifelong) friends! And anyone you meet on your journey can serve as a helpful resource as well.

One of the best digital nomad communities that I’m a part of is The Nomad Escape. Read more about my experiences at their recent retreats and coliving events here.

You can choose practically any city in the world to be a digital nomad!

Visas and permissions

Depending on the passport you hold and the country you want to relocate to, you might need a visa. Visas for digital nomads are becoming more and more popular. In fact, countries are quickly adding and improving programs to attract more people. Many allow remote workers to live there for a number of months, while some provide tax incentives for years!

In many countries without special programs, you can stay for a short time on a tourist visa while you plan the next step of your journey. If you come from a country with limited passport power, that may minimize the number of places you can live and work. And considering the places you might want to live, each country will have different visa costs and processes. Do a good amount of research, and make sure to plan well ahead if you’ll need a visa. 

Where should I be a digital nomad?

Now, let’s rank some of the best cities and countries across the world to be a digital nomad in. If you have an idea of where you’d like to go, we’ll organize our descriptions by continent. Or, in the true digital nomad spirit, you can always throw a dart at a map!

Best digital nomad city for beginners: Austin, Texas

Most popular digital nomad city: Medellin, Colombia

Best affordable digital nomad place: Bali, Indonesia

Most unique digital nomad city: Perth, Australia

Safest city for digital nomads: Lisbon, Portugal

Best city for natural beauty: Cape Town, South Africa

If you’re interested in moving abroad, check out this article:

Jon Miksis

About Jon Miksis

Award-winning Travel Writer • Founder of Global Viewpoint • 70+ countries visited • 10 Million+ readers

Since 2017, I’ve traveled 3–6 months a year, sharing detailed guides that have helped over 10 million readers travel smarter, deeper, and better. My work blends firsthand experiences — from U.S. road trips and cold-plunge cabins to Michelin-starred dining and business-class flights — with honest, independent reviews.

I’ve been hired by leading tourism boards in 7 countries across Europe, North America, and South America, as well as international travel brands. My travel tips and insights have been featured in Forbes, HuffPost, Yahoo Travel, and The Boston Globe. I’ve personally reviewed 500+ hotels, retreats, and flight experiences — and I never recommend a place I wouldn’t return to myself.

I also save $5–10K per year on airfare using flight tools and 10+ travel credit cards, and I’ve invested over $100K into personal development through transformational retreats and coaching since 2021.

When I’m not road-tripping across the Northeast or writing guides for Global Viewpoint, you’ll find me cold plunging in local lakes, sipping espresso in quiet cafes in Vienna, or chasing fall foliage across New England. I split my time between exploring the world and soaking up life in Boston, my lifelong home base. Some of my favorite places I keep going back to? Switzerland, Spain, Iceland, Italy, Greece, the Faroe Islands, Guatemala, California, Montana, Vermont, and coastal Maine in autumn.

See my latest adventures on Instagram and TikTok.

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