The digital nomad lifestyle has become more popular than ever, with remote workers and freelancers choosing to live and work from different corners of the world. The best countries for digital nomads offer a combination of fast internet, affordable living costs, a welcoming community, and great quality of life. After traveling and working remotely in multiple countries, I’ve put together a list of some of the best destinations that are perfect for digital nomads.
1. Thailand
Thailand has long been a favorite among digital nomads, and for good reason. It offers a low cost of living, delicious food, beautiful landscapes, and a strong nomad community.
Why it’s great for digital nomads:
- Affordable accommodations, with apartments in Chiang Mai or Bangkok starting at $300–$500 per month.
- Plenty of coworking spaces, such as Punspace in Chiang Mai and Hubba in Bangkok.
- A thriving expat and digital nomad community, making it easy to network and meet new people.
Best Cities:
- Chiang Mai – Often considered the digital nomad capital of the world, it’s cheap, safe, and has plenty of coworking spaces.
- Bangkok – A vibrant city with great nightlife and modern amenities.
- Phuket – A great spot for those who want to be near the beach while working remotely.
2. Portugal
Portugal has quickly become a hotspot for remote workers, especially in cities like Lisbon and Porto. The country offers an affordable European lifestyle with great weather, delicious food, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Why it’s great for digital nomads:
- Portugal has a digital nomad visa, allowing remote workers to stay long-term.
- The cost of living is lower than in many other European countries.
- Fast internet and coworking spaces like Second Home Lisbon make working remotely easy.
Best Cities:
- Lisbon – A top digital nomad hub with stunning views, great cafés, and a lively community.
- Porto – A smaller, charming city with a lower cost of living and amazing food.
- Madeira – A tropical island with a government-sponsored nomad village in Ponta do Sol.
3. Mexico
Mexico is an amazing destination for digital nomads, offering a mix of vibrant cities, beach towns, and cultural richness. It’s also close to the U.S., making it a convenient option for North American nomads.
Why it’s great for digital nomads:
- A low cost of living, with rent starting at $400–$700 per month.
- Digital nomad-friendly visas, such as the Temporary Resident Visa, which allows stays of up to four years.
- A strong nomad community, especially in popular cities like Mexico City and Playa del Carmen.
Best Cities:
- Mexico City – A cosmopolitan city with fast internet, a great food scene, and a mix of modern and traditional culture.
- Playa del Carmen – A beachside town with a big expat and remote worker community.
- Tulum – A more laid-back option for those who want to work near stunning beaches.
4. Indonesia (Bali)
Bali is a dream destination for digital nomads, offering breathtaking scenery, a laid-back lifestyle, and a strong remote work community.
Why it’s great for digital nomads:
- Extremely affordable, with monthly expenses as low as $800–$1,500.
- A well-established nomad scene, with coworking spaces like Dojo Bali and Outpost Ubud.
- A spiritual and wellness-focused lifestyle, perfect for those who want to balance work and relaxation.
Best Areas:
- Canggu – The ultimate digital nomad hub with beachside cafés, coworking spaces, and a lively community.
- Ubud – A quieter, more nature-focused area with yoga retreats and lush scenery.
- Seminyak – A trendy area with upscale restaurants and a vibrant nightlife.
5. Colombia
Colombia has become a rising star for digital nomads, offering low living costs, friendly locals, and stunning scenery. Medellín, in particular, has transformed into a top destination for remote workers.
Why it’s great for digital nomads:
- Medellín is known as the “City of Eternal Spring” because of its perfect year-round weather.
- A growing coworking culture, with spaces like Selina and Atom House.
- The cost of living is very affordable, with rent as low as $400 per month.
Best Cities:
- Medellín – A modern city with great weather, reliable internet, and a growing expat scene.
- Bogotá – A larger city with a vibrant culture and great job opportunities for remote workers.
- Cartagena – A beautiful coastal city for those who want a mix of work and beach life.
