If you’re like me, you love the freedom of working from anywhere in the world. But choosing the right city to call your temporary home can make all the difference. You want an affordable place with reliable internet, a great community, and lots to do in your downtime.
That’s why I’ve compiled this guide to the top 16 cities for digital nomads in 2024. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or just starting your nomadic journey, these cities offer everything you need to live and work comfortably.
| City | Cost of Living (Monthly) | Internet Connectivity | Community Highlights | Quality of Life | Visa Policies |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lisbon, Portugal | $1,200 – $2,400 | 175 Mbps | Active community with coworking spaces like Heden | Safe, excellent healthcare, mild climate, historic sites | Digital Nomad Visa, €3,040 income, €9,840 savings |
| Bali, Indonesia | $1,000 – $1,500 | Improved, reliable | Vibrant in Canggu and Ubud, coworking like Dojo | Beautiful beaches, lush landscapes, diverse culture | B211A Visa, up to 6 months |
| Mexico City, Mexico | $955 – $1,735 | High-speed, $25/month | Thriving in Roma, Condesa, Polanco | Rich culture, green spaces, vibrant street food scene | Tourist Visa up to 180 days, Temporary Resident Visa |
| Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam | $800 – $1,200 | Reliable, affordable | Growing in District 1, Thao Dien | Unique culture, vibrant street food, historic sites | E-visa up to 90 days, business visas available |
| Tbilisi, Georgia | $800 – $1,200 | 50 Mbps, affordable | Growing in Vake, Vera, Chugureti | Old-world charm, modern amenities, safe | Visa-free up to 365 days, “Remotely from Georgia” program |
| Cape Town, South Africa | $740 – $1,300 | High-speed options | Vibrant in Sea Point, Green Point | Stunning landscapes, diverse food scene | Digital Nomad Visa, up to 1 year |
| Chiang Mai, Thailand | $700 – $1,200 | Reliable, fast | Vibrant in Nimmanhaemin, Old City | Cultural richness, modern amenities, pleasant weather | Tourist Visa up to 60 days, Smart Visa up to 4 years |
| Berlin, Germany | $1,400 – $2,500 | 50-100 Mbps | Thriving in Kreuzberg, Friedrichshain | Rich culture, green spaces, vibrant nightlife | Freelance Visa, up to 3 years |
| Prague, Czech Republic | $1,000 – $1,500 | High-speed, $30/month | Thriving in Vinohrady, Old Town | Historic charm, modern amenities, efficient transport | Digital Nomad Visa, up to 1 year |
| Budapest, Hungary | $1,000 – $1,500 | Excellent | Thriving in District V, VI, VII | Rich culture, beautiful architecture, thermal baths | White Card Visa, up to 1 year |
| Sofia, Bulgaria | $800 – $1,200 | Reliable, fast | Growing in Vitosha, Lozenets | Rich culture, beautiful nature, all four seasons | D-type Visa, up to 1 year |
| Santiago, Chile | $1,000 – $1,500 | Excellent | Growing in Providencia, Las Condes | Rich culture, stunning landscapes, efficient transport | Tourist Visa up to 90 days, Temporary Resident Visa |
| Valletta, Malta | $1,500 – $2,500 | 100 Mbps | Growing in Valletta, Sliema | Mediterranean climate, historic sites, relaxed lifestyle | Nomad Residence Permit, up to 1 year |
| Medellín, Colombia | $800 – $1,200 | Reliable, fast | Vibrant in El Poblado, Laureles | Pleasant climate, beautiful mountains, rich culture | Digital Nomad Visa, up to 2 years |
| Dubai, UAE | $3,000 – $5,000 | 100 Mbps | Growing in Marina, Downtown, JLT | High standard of living, modern amenities, efficient transport | Remote Work Visa, up to 1 year |
| Buenos Aires, Argentina | $800 – $1,200 | Reliable, fast | Thriving in Palermo, Recoleta, San Telmo | Rich culture, beautiful architecture, vibrant lifestyle | Digital Nomad Visa, up to 1 year |
1. Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon is a fantastic spot for digital nomads looking for affordability and charm. Imagine living in a city where a one-bedroom apartment in the center costs between €800 and €1,600 per month.
Groceries will set you back around €200 to €300, and dining out is quite affordable, ranging from €10 to €40 per meal. The city offers fast internet at around 175 Mbps, perfect for all your remote work needs.
Lisbon’s digital nomad community is vibrant and welcoming, with plenty of coworking spaces like Heden and Outside Cowork Cafe. You’ll love exploring historic neighborhoods like Alfama and Baixa or enjoying the beaches at Cascais.
With Portugal’s Digital Nomad Visa, you can stay for up to a year with a monthly income of at least €3,040 and savings of €9,840.
2. Bali, Indonesia
Bali is a dream destination for digital nomads who love a mix of work and play. You can rent a cozy one-bedroom apartment for as low as $300 or splurge on a luxurious villa for up to $1,500 monthly.
Groceries cost about $200 to $300, and delicious meals cost just $2 to $10. Bali’s internet connectivity has vastly improved, making it easy to stay connected.
The island’s digital nomad hubs, like Canggu and Ubud, offer lively atmospheres with plenty of coworking spaces and meetups.
From surfing and yoga to exploring lush landscapes, Bali provides a high quality of life. The B211A visa lets you stay and work in Bali for up to six months.
3. Mexico City, Mexico
Mexico City offers a vibrant lifestyle at an affordable cost. Renting a one-bedroom apartment in the city center costs between $600 and $1,000 per month, while it costs $400 to $600 outside the center.
Monthly utilities and internet will add around $50 to $110. Groceries are budget-friendly at $150 to $250 monthly, and meals range from $5 to $15.
The city boasts reliable high-speed internet, which is crucial for remote work. Popular neighborhoods like Roma, Condesa, and Polanco are digital nomad hotspots filled with coworking spaces and regular meetups.
Enjoy Mexico City’s rich culture, delicious cuisine, and vibrant green spaces like Chapultepec Park. For longer stays, consider the Temporary Resident Visa.
4. Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Ho Chi Minh City is perfect for digital nomads seeking an affordable and exciting destination. Rent a one-bedroom apartment in the city center for $350 to $700, or find cheaper options outside the center. Utilities and internet costs around $60 to $110 per month.
Groceries are about $150 to $250, and eating out is incredibly cheap, with meals costing $1 to $5. The city offers good internet connectivity, and coworking spaces like Dreamplex and The Hive are popular among nomads.
Districts like District 1 and Thao Dien in District 2 are vibrant areas with plenty of social activities. Explore historic landmarks, enjoy the street food scene, and soak in the city’s dynamic energy.
Vietnam’s e-visa allows for a stay of up to 90 days.
5. Tbilisi, Georgia
Tbilisi is an emerging hotspot for digital nomads, offering a unique blend of affordability and culture. A one-bedroom apartment in the city center costs about $350 to $500 per month, with utilities and internet costing another $50 to $100.
Groceries cost around $150 to $250 monthly, and dining out is a bargain at $3 to $10 per meal. Internet speeds are generally good, and there are plenty of coworking spaces like Terminal and LOKAL Tbilisi.
The city’s digital nomad community is growing, especially in areas like Vake and Vera. Enjoy Tbilisi’s historic charm, vibrant culinary scene, and friendly locals.
The “Remotely from Georgia” program lets many nationalities stay visa-free for up to 365 days.
6. Cape Town, South Africa
Cape Town offers a stunning backdrop for digital nomads with its natural beauty and vibrant culture. A one-bedroom apartment in the city center costs $500 to $800, but you can find cheaper options outside the center.
Utilities and internet add about $50 to $100 per month. Groceries cost between $150 and $250, and dining out ranges from $10 to $20 per meal. Internet connectivity is solid, with coworking spaces like Workshop17 providing high-speed internet and networking opportunities.
Popular neighborhoods include Sea Point and Green Point, which are known for their lively atmospheres. Enjoy hiking Table Mountain, visiting botanical gardens, and exploring the city’s diverse food scene.
South Africa’s new digital nomad visa allows you to stay and work for up to a year.
7. Chiang Mai, Thailand
Chiang Mai is a favorite among digital nomads for its affordability and laid-back vibe. Rent a one-bedroom apartment in the city center for $300 to $700, or save more by living outside the center. Utilities and internet typically add another $50 to $100 per month.
Groceries cost around $150 to $200, and meals out are cheap at $1 to $5. Chiang Mai offers reliable internet, with coworking spaces like Punspace and CAMP providing excellent facilities. Areas like Nimmanhaemin and the Old City are popular among nomads.
Enjoy exploring historic temples, vibrant markets, and the city’s street food scene. Thailand’s Smart Visa allows up to four years for professionals and entrepreneurs.
8. Berlin, Germany
Berlin is an exciting city for digital nomads with its rich culture and moderate cost of living. Rent a one-bedroom apartment in the city center for €900 to €1,500, or find cheaper options outside the center. Utilities and internet costs about €180 to €250 monthly.
Groceries are around €200 to €300, and dining out ranges from €10 to €20 per meal. Berlin offers excellent internet connectivity, with many coworking spaces like Factory Berlin and Betahaus.
Popular neighborhoods include Kreuzberg and Friedrichshain, which are known for their vibrant atmospheres.
Enjoy Berlin’s green spaces, diverse food scene, and bustling nightlife. Germany’s Freelance Visa allows stays for up to three years, with the possibility of permanent residency.
9. Prague, Czech Republic
Prague is a charming and affordable city for digital nomads. You can rent a one-bedroom apartment in the city center for $700-$900 per month, while it costs $500-$700 outside the center. Utilities and internet costs around $100-$150 monthly.
Groceries cost about $150-$250, and dining out ranges from $8 to $15 per meal. Prague offers reliable high-speed internet and many coworking spaces, like Impact Hub and Locus Workspace.
Neighborhoods like Vinohrady and Old Town are popular among nomads. Enjoy Prague’s historic charm, vibrant nightlife, and efficient public transport.
The Digital Nomad Visa allows freelancers to work in the Czech Republic for up to a year.
10. Budapest, Hungary
Budapest combines affordability with a rich cultural scene, making it ideal for digital nomads.
Renting a one-bedroom apartment in the city center costs $500-$700 per month, while it costs $300-$500 outside the center. Utilities and internet add about $100-$150 monthly.
Groceries cost $150-$250, and dining out ranges from $5 to $15 per meal. Budapest offers excellent internet connectivity, with coworking spaces like Impact Hub and Loffice.
Districts V and VI, known for their vibrant atmospheres, are popular neighborhoods. Explore historic sites like Buda Castle, relax in thermal baths, and enjoy the city’s lively nightlife.
Hungary’s White Card Visa allows you to stay for up to a year, with a possible extension.
11. Sofia, Bulgaria
Sofia is a budget-friendly and vibrant city for digital nomads. Renting a one-bedroom apartment in the city center costs $400-$600 per month, while it costs $300-$500 outside the center.
Utilities and internet add about $50-$100 monthly. Groceries cost $150-$200, and meals out range from $5 to $15.
Sofia offers reliable high-speed internet, as well as coworking spaces like Impact Hub and Betahaus. Popular neighborhoods include Vitosha and Lozenets.
Enjoy Sofia’s rich cultural scene, beautiful nature, and efficient public transport. Bulgaria’s long-stay D-type visa allows you to stay for up to a year.
12. Santiago, Chile
Santiago is an affordable and dynamic city for digital nomads. Renting a one-bedroom apartment in the city center costs $500-$700 per month, while it costs $400-$600 outside the center. Utilities and internet add about $100-$150 monthly.
Groceries cost $150-$250, and dining out ranges from $5 to $15 per meal. Santiago offers excellent internet connectivity, with coworking spaces like Workspaces and Impact Hub. Popular neighborhoods include Providencia and Bellavista.
Enjoy Santiago’s rich culture, stunning landscapes, and well-developed public transport. The Temporary Resident Visa allows digital nomads to stay and work for up to a year.
13. Valletta, Malta
Valletta is a beautiful and reasonably priced city for digital nomads. Renting a one-bedroom apartment in the city center costs €800-€1,500 per month, while outside the center it’s €600-€900. Utilities and internet add about €100-€150 monthly.
Groceries cost €200-€400, and meals out range from €15 to €30. Valletta offers robust high-speed internet, with coworking spaces like SOHO Office and The Hub.
Popular areas include Valletta and Sliema. Enjoy Malta’s Mediterranean climate, historic sites, and efficient public transport.
Malta’s Nomad Residence Permit allows you to stay for up to a year, with a possible renewal.
14. Medellín, Colombia
Medellín is a favorite for digital nomads due to its affordability and vibrant community.
Rent a one-bedroom apartment in areas like El Poblado for $500-$800 per month, with utilities and internet adding $50-$100.
Groceries cost $150-$250, and meals out are $3-$10. Medellín offers reliable high-speed internet and plenty of coworking spaces.
Neighborhoods like El Poblado and Laureles are popular among nomads. Enjoy Medellín’s year-round spring-like weather, beautiful mountains, and rich culture.
The Digital Nomad Visa allows you to stay for up to two years.
15. Dubai, UAE
Dubai is perfect for digital nomads seeking luxury and modern amenities. A one-bedroom apartment in the city center costs $1,500-$3,000 monthly, with utilities adding $200-$300.
Groceries cost $300-$500, and dining out costs $10-$50 per meal. Dubai offers excellent internet connectivity, averaging 100 Mbps.
Popular areas include Dubai Marina and Downtown Dubai. Enjoy Dubai’s year-round sunshine, safe environment, and efficient public transport.
The Remote Work Visa allows you to stay for up to a year.
16. Buenos Aires, Argentina
Buenos Aires is a vibrant and affordable city for digital nomads. Rent a one-bedroom apartment in the city center for $400-$700 monthly, with utilities and internet adding $50-$100.
Groceries cost $150-$250, and meals out range from $5-$15.
Buenos Aires offers reliable high-speed internet and plenty of coworking spaces. Neighborhoods like Palermo and Recoleta are popular among nomads.
Enjoy Buenos Aires’ rich culture, beautiful architecture, and vibrant lifestyle. The Digital Nomad Visa allows you to stay for up to a year.
Essential Tips For Digital Nomads:
Finding Reliable Internet
A reliable internet is crucial for digital nomads to stay productive and connected. Use tools like Speedtest.net and Fast.com to check internet speeds and ensure they meet your work requirements.
Before booking long-term stays, read reviews that mention internet reliability and contact hosts directly to confirm the setup. Mobile hotspots like Solis (Skyroam) or Nighthawk M6 Pro 5G are excellent backup options, providing coverage for 4G or 5G in numerous countries.
Coworking spaces are also a great solution, offering stable, high-speed internet and networking opportunities.
Research spaces like WeWork, Regus, and local hubs for the best options. Familiarize yourself with local internet providers such as GlobalConnect and NomadNet, which offer tailored plans for digital nomads.
Always have a backup plan to ensure continuous connectivity through coworking spaces, mobile hotspots, or reliable accommodations.
Local Banking and Financial Services Tips
Managing finances effectively while living abroad can save you from unnecessary fees and complications. Opening a local bank account can help you avoid hefty international transaction fees. Standard requirements include identification, proof of address, and sometimes a visa.
Global financial services like Wise (formerly TransferWise) and Revolut offer competitive exchange rates and low fees for money transfers and currency exchanges.
To get the best rates, use local banks or specialized currency exchange services and always keep a small amount of local currency for emergencies.
Choose credit and debit cards that offer no foreign transaction fees and provide fraud protection. Popular cards include Chase Sapphire Preferred and Capital One Venture.
Budgeting apps like Mint or YNAB can be used to track expenses and maintain financial stability.
Cost-Saving Tips for Living Abroad
Managing living expenses effectively can enhance your experience as a digital nomad. For accommodation, negotiate rent for long-term stays and look for deals on platforms like Airbnb and Booking.com.
Consider shared housing or co-living spaces to save on rent and utilities. To save on daily expenses, shop at local markets for fresh produce and cook at home. Eating at local eateries and street food stalls is usually cheaper than restaurants.
Use apps like Groupon to get discounts on dining and activities. Public transportation is a cost-effective way to get around; monthly passes can reduce expenses significantly. For short distances, biking or walking are great alternatives.
Join local gyms or fitness centers with affordable rates and utilize public parks for exercise. Explore free or low-cost attractions like parks, museums, and community events.
Use travel hacks like off-peak travel and discount passes to explore nearby regions affordably.
