Finding the perfect spot as a digital nomad means balancing adventure with everyday comforts.
Living as a digital nomad offers an incredible mix of freedom and opportunity. You can work from anywhere with a reliable internet connection, which means your “office” could be a bustling café in Lisbon or a tranquil beach in Bali. But not all destinations are created equal when it comes to remote work. Some cities offer a perfect blend of affordability, community, culture, and connectivity, making them ideal for digital nomads.
The best places to live as a digital nomad often provide coworking spaces, reliable Wi-Fi, and a welcoming atmosphere for expats. Many of these cities have vibrant digital nomad communities, making it easy to network, make friends, and find your rhythm. Whether you crave tropical weather, rich cultural experiences, or just a great spot to set up your laptop, these 11 places around the world offer everything a digital nomad could need to thrive.
1. Bali, Indonesia offers a tropical paradise with a thriving digital nomad community.
Bali has become a top choice for digital nomads, and it’s easy to see why. The island combines natural beauty with modern amenities, offering a wide range of coworking spaces, affordable accommodations, and excellent food. Towns like Canggu and Ubud are particularly popular for their laid-back vibes, vibrant communities, and strong Wi-Fi connections. Plus, the cost of living is relatively low, allowing you to enjoy a higher quality of life without breaking the bank, according to Wander.
Beyond work, Bali offers endless opportunities to explore. You can surf world-class waves, hike through rice terraces, or simply relax at a beachside café. The local culture is rich with traditions, and you’ll find countless yoga and wellness retreats to help maintain a balanced lifestyle. Bali’s warm, welcoming atmosphere makes it a perfect spot to live and work remotely.
2. Lisbon, Portugal blends history, culture, and modern conveniences.
Lisbon has quickly risen as a top destination for nomads, offering a blend of charming old-world architecture and modern tech-friendly amenities. The city’s mild climate, vibrant cultural scene, and affordable living costs make it an attractive option for remote workers. You’ll find many coworking spaces, strong Wi-Fi, and a friendly expat community that can make settling in a breeze.
What sets Lisbon apart is its perfect balance between work and play. After a day of productivity, you can explore historic neighborhoods, enjoy delicious Portuguese cuisine, or take a quick trip to the nearby beaches of Cascais. The city also offers a growing number of networking events and meetups for digital nomads, helping you build both personal and professional connections.
3. Chiang Mai, Thailand offers affordability and a relaxed lifestyle.
Chiang Mai has long been a favorite among digital nomads, thanks to its incredibly low cost of living and welcoming community. The city is known for its relaxed pace, making it easy to focus on work while enjoying a balanced lifestyle. You’ll find a wide range of coworking spaces, reliable internet, and affordable food and housing options.
When you’re not working, Chiang Mai offers plenty of ways to recharge. You can explore ancient temples, wander through bustling markets, or take day trips to the surrounding mountains. The city’s café culture is vibrant, with many places offering comfortable seating and fast Wi-Fi, making it perfect for remote work.
4. Medellín, Colombia provides a spring-like climate and dynamic culture.
Medellín, once known for its troubled past, has transformed into a vibrant, innovative city ideal for digital nomads. Its “eternal spring” climate means you’ll enjoy mild weather year-round, which is perfect for working from outdoor spaces or exploring the city on foot. The cost of living is affordable, and Medellín boasts a range of coworking spaces and a growing digital nomad community.
The city is full of life, with colorful neighborhoods, bustling markets, and rich Colombian culture. The public transportation system, including the famous cable cars, makes getting around easy and affordable. You’ll also find that Medellín offers a mix of local and international dining options, plus plenty of opportunities to learn Spanish and immerse yourself in the culture.
5. Tbilisi, Georgia offers affordability and a generous visa policy.
Tbilisi is quickly gaining recognition as a digital nomad hotspot, largely due to Georgia’s visa policy that allows many nationalities to stay for up to a year. The city is incredibly affordable, with low rent, cheap dining options, and accessible coworking spaces. Its unique blend of Eastern European and Asian influences makes Tbilisi a fascinating place to live.
The city offers an eclectic mix of old and new, with cobblestone streets, historic architecture, and a growing modern café and tech scene. Tbilisi’s natural surroundings provide easy access to outdoor adventures, including hiking in the Caucasus Mountains. It’s also a great base for exploring other parts of Europe and Asia, with budget-friendly flights to many destinations.
6. Mexico City, Mexico offers a vibrant urban experience with a creative vibe.
Mexico City is a bustling metropolis with a rich cultural heritage and a lively creative scene. Digital nomads are drawn to its blend of history, modern amenities, and affordable living. You’ll find a variety of coworking spaces and cafés with reliable Wi-Fi, plus an expat community that makes it easy to connect with like-minded people.
The city offers countless experiences to fill your free time. You can explore world-class museums, enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine, or take weekend trips to nearby destinations like Puebla or Cuernavaca. Mexico City’s combination of work-friendly spaces and cultural opportunities makes it a standout choice for digital nomads.
7. Barcelona, Spain mixes coastal beauty with a bustling city life.
Barcelona offers digital nomads the best of both worlds: vibrant city life and easy access to the Mediterranean coast. The city’s mild climate, rich history, and energetic atmosphere make it a popular spot for remote workers. You’ll find many coworking spaces and networking opportunities, as well as a well-established expat community.
Living in Barcelona means you can spend your mornings working productively and your afternoons exploring the city’s artistic and architectural wonders. From Gaudí’s iconic buildings to bustling markets and beautiful beaches, there’s always something to do. The city’s efficient public transport also makes it easy to explore the rest of Spain and Europe.
8. Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam offers fast-paced living and affordability.
For digital nomads seeking an energetic urban environment, Ho Chi Minh City delivers. The city is known for its affordable living, vibrant street life, and rapidly growing tech scene. There are many coworking spaces and cafés with reliable internet, along with a variety of housing options that cater to different budgets.
Beyond work, you can dive into Vietnam’s rich culture through its food, history, and local traditions. The city is a gateway to exploring Southeast Asia, offering affordable travel opportunities to nearby countries. Ho Chi Minh City is a great choice for those who thrive in dynamic, ever-changing environments.
9. Budapest, Hungary offers European charm with a budget-friendly twist.
Budapest provides the charm of a European city without the high price tag. Digital nomads love its stunning architecture, welcoming atmosphere, and affordable living costs. The city offers reliable internet, coworking spaces, and plenty of places to work remotely, from quiet cafés to bustling communal offices.
Budapest’s vibrant cultural scene offers everything from historic thermal baths to lively nightlife along the Danube River. The city is also well-connected by public transportation, making it easy to explore its many neighborhoods and attractions. It’s a great base for exploring Europe, with budget airlines offering flights to countless destinations.
10. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia combines modern amenities with cultural diversity.
Kuala Lumpur offers digital nomads a blend of high-tech infrastructure and rich cultural experiences. The city’s cost of living is lower than many Western countries, yet it provides modern conveniences, excellent internet, and numerous coworking spaces. Malaysia’s multicultural environment also means you’ll enjoy a mix of languages, cuisines, and traditions.
The city’s efficient public transport makes it easy to explore, and you’ll find everything from bustling markets to serene parks. Kuala Lumpur is also a gateway to exploring Southeast Asia, with affordable flights to many popular destinations.
11. Prague, Czech Republic delivers history, culture, and affordability.
Prague’s picturesque streets, historic charm, and affordable living costs make it an attractive choice for digital nomads. The city offers a mix of coworking spaces and remote work-friendly cafés, along with a welcoming community of expats. You’ll find that the city’s rich history and vibrant cultural scene provide endless inspiration.
Living in Prague gives you access to Central Europe’s beauty and history. You can explore medieval architecture, enjoy cultural festivals, and take advantage of the city’s efficient transportation system. It’s a perfect blend of productivity and adventure, offering digital nomads a unique and fulfilling experience.