The rise of remote work has sparked a new era of global mobility. Professionals no longer need to be tied to a single office or location. Instead, many are choosing to live and work from cities that offer better cost of living, vibrant cultures, and strong infrastructure for remote work. These individuals, often referred to as digital nomads, seek out cities that provide a balance of affordability, lifestyle, community, and reliable internet. Here’s a look at some of the best cities around the world for remote work.
1. Chiang Mai, Thailand
Chiang Mai has long been a favorite among digital nomads. Located in northern Thailand, the city combines affordability with a high quality of life. Monthly expenses can be relatively low compared to Western standards, and there is a strong community of remote workers. Numerous coworking spaces like Punspace and Hub53 offer fast internet, comfortable work environments, and opportunities for networking.
The city’s laid-back atmosphere, delicious street food, and beautiful natural surroundings make it easy to see why so many choose Chiang Mai as a base. Additionally, Thailand offers a long-stay visa option that appeals to those wanting to stay beyond the typical tourist period.
2. Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon is one of Europe’s top digital nomad hubs. With its sunny weather, scenic hills, and colorful neighborhoods, Lisbon is a city that offers charm and modern amenities. It boasts a growing number of coworking spaces and cafes that are remote work-friendly. Lisbon also has excellent public transportation and easy access to beaches and nature, which helps strike a healthy work-life balance.
Portugal’s relatively low cost of living for Western Europe, combined with the introduction of digital nomad visas, makes Lisbon a practical and appealing choice. The city also benefits from a growing tech scene and a welcoming attitude toward foreigners.
3. Medellín, Colombia
Medellín has transformed itself over the past two decades into a vibrant and safe city, shedding its troubled past. It is now a hotspot for digital nomads, thanks in part to its pleasant climate, fast internet, and friendly locals. The city sits in a valley surrounded by mountains, offering great views and outdoor opportunities.
Remote workers enjoy Medellín’s cost-effective living, reliable metro system, and thriving expat community. Neighborhoods like El Poblado and Laureles are particularly popular due to their walkability, cafes, and coworking spaces. Colombia’s visa policies are also favorable for long-term stays.
4. Canggu, Bali, Indonesia
Canggu has grown rapidly as a digital nomad destination. This beachside town on the island of Bali is known for its surf culture, yoga retreats, and laid-back lifestyle. It offers a unique mix of tropical living and remote work infrastructure, including well-equipped coworking spaces like Dojo Bali and Outpost.
Though Bali can be more expensive than some parts of Indonesia, Canggu still offers a good balance between affordability and quality of life. The island’s beauty, combined with a large international community, makes it a strong draw for digital nomads who seek both productivity and relaxation.
5. Tbilisi, Georgia
Georgia has recently emerged as a digital nomad-friendly destination, with Tbilisi at the center of this trend. The city offers an appealing blend of European and Asian cultures, low living costs, and an easy visa policy that allows many nationalities to stay for up to a year without a visa.
Tbilisi has several coworking spaces, modern apartments, and a growing community of expats and remote workers. The local food and wine culture is also a major plus, as are the nearby mountains for hiking and skiing. Georgia’s new digital nomad visa program further supports those wishing to make a longer-term move.
6. Mexico City, Mexico
Mexico City is a dynamic and cosmopolitan capital with a lot to offer digital nomads. It’s rich in culture, food, and history, and has become increasingly popular with remote workers from the US and Europe. The city offers solid infrastructure, reliable internet, and a wide variety of neighborhoods to suit different tastes and budgets.
Popular areas like Roma and Condesa are filled with coworking spaces, cafes, and community events for remote workers. Mexico’s time zone is also convenient for those who need to work with teams based in North America.
7. Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona combines a Mediterranean lifestyle with a thriving startup scene, making it ideal for digital nomads. The city has beautiful architecture, great food, and numerous coworking options. The cost of living can be higher than in other cities on this list, but many still find it affordable compared to other major European hubs.
Spain has recently introduced a digital nomad visa, which enhances its appeal to remote workers. Barcelona also offers excellent public transportation and access to beaches, hiking trails, and cultural landmarks.
8. Cape Town, South Africa
Cape Town is a stunning coastal city with a rich mix of cultures and natural beauty. It offers a relatively low cost of living, good internet infrastructure in most areas, and a growing community of digital nomads. Remote workers are drawn to the city’s outdoor lifestyle, with access to beaches, mountains, and vineyards.
There are several coworking spaces and digital communities to tap into, and English is widely spoken. South Africa’s visa options are somewhat limited, but the government has proposed new regulations aimed at attracting digital nomads.
Final Thoughts
Digital nomads have more choices than ever when it comes to where they live and work. The best city will depend on your personal preferences, budget, and professional needs. While affordability and internet speed are important, community, lifestyle, safety, and visa accessibility also play key roles in making a location ideal for remote work. Whether you’re looking for adventure, culture, or tranquility, there’s likely a digital nomad hub out there that fits your vision of a remote work lifestyle.