The number of digital nomads worldwide has tripled since 2019. More and more, remote workers are giving up their stationary lives in search of a nomadic lifestyle that offers the benefits of freedom and seemingly limitless exploration. One of the first, and most routine things you’ll do as a digital nomad is search for new places to visit and “live” in.
Finding the right digital nomad city can mean balancing several factors that are vital to the nomadic lifestyle — including affordable cost of living, reliable internet, a tight-knit community, fun things to do, and more.
To help you find (and prioritize) the right destinations for you, we put together this in-depth guide on the best cities for digital nomads — organized by region (North America, South America, Europe, etc.). In this guide, you’ll also find valuable information on why each city is a good pick for digital nomads, the pros and cons of each city, and vital details like the cost of living, internet speeds, and the best time of year to visit.
Before we highlight the best cities, let’s cover what factors you should consider when evaluating different locations.
Table Of Contents
- What Makes A Great Digital Nomad City?
- The Best Digital Nomad Cities By Region
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What Makes A Great Digital Nomad City?
Five significant factors help determine if a city is well-suited for digital nomads. Of course, this is not an exhaustive list. Each nomad is different and your requirements for a given city may differ.
However, these five factors represent the most important things to consider when picking the perfect destination for a location-independent life.
1. Reliable internet
Reliable internet is the most important factor. Since you will be working remotely, reliable, fast internet is vital.
You'll need at least 25 Mbps download and 3 Mbps upload speeds to work remotely without issues. Video calls and conferences work best with connections under 150ms latency.
2. Affordable cost of living
Many digital nomads live comfortably in popular destinations for $1,500-2,000 monthly. This budget covers accommodation, utilities, food, and basic entertainment. This can be lower in some countries in South America and Southeast Asia but will be much higher in places like Western Europe and the U.S.
The cost of living will vary greatly by region. Here’s a rough breakdown of the average cost of living for a digital nomad:
3. Accessible transportation
Depending on your means of travel, your nomadic experience will likely depend heavily on available transportation options in the area you choose. For instance, if you live in the U.S. and want to travel around North America, you may already have a car to travel between cities and get from Point A to Point B while you’re there.
However, if you plan to fly to a new city, you’ll need to rely on public transportation, ride-sharing apps, or rent a car. Walkability is an important factor, too. If you don’t have access to a vehicle, choosing a more walkable city will help you get around more easily and cut down on transportation expenses.
Cities with the quickest public transit systems help you avoid tedious commutes. The right location should connect you easily to the surrounding areas. Additionally, make sure to research what ride-sharing apps are available. Don’t assume that every country has Uber or Lyft. There are many that don’t and instead have their own local versions of these types of apps.
4. A vibrant community
Community is extremely important for digital nomads who are often traveling solo. Larger communities offer nomads the chance to more easily connect with other nomads, meet new friends while traveling, and even seek recommendations from other travelers.
The top cities feature:
- Active coworking spaces with networking events
- Regular meetups and skill-sharing sessions
- 2+ year old expat communities
- Opportunities for cultural exchange
5. Unique, fun things to do
The fun factor rounds out the list. Great digital nomad cities blend work and play naturally. They offer cultural experiences, outdoor activities, and unique attractions. You didn't choose the location-independent lifestyle just to stare at your laptop all day!
Consider the activities you enjoy — whether that’s checking out local bars, eating at new restaurants, or exploring the outdoors — and make sure the city you’re considering has an abundance of these types of activities.
The Best Digital Nomad Cities By Region
Now for the fun part! Let’s take a look at the best cities for digital nomads worldwide. We’ve organized this list by region so you can find the top cities in the countries or continents you are considering visiting.
Scroll on or use the links below to navigate directly to each section!
South America
Mexico City, Mexico
Why is Mexico City a good digital nomad city?
Life in Mexico City combines affordability with metropolitan perks. The numbers speak for themselves — living here costs 45.7% less than in the United States. The city rewards residents with exceptional dining, dynamic nightlife, and reliable infrastructure for remote work.
Key details
- Population: 10.7 million
- Time Zone: GMT-6
- Visa: 180-day tourist permit
- Language: Spanish (English growing in nomad areas)
Pros
- Fast fiber optic internet
- Thriving coworking scene
- Rich food culture
- Excellent public transportation
- Active digital nomad community
Cons
- Heavy traffic congestion
- Language barrier
- Air quality concerns
- Rising rental costs in popular areas
Cost of living
Best time to visit
The city maintains pleasant temperatures throughout the year, averaging 72°F. The best time to visit falls between November and February when the weather is most enjoyable.
Internet
The city delivers dependable internet speeds:
- Download: 67.04 Mbps
- Upload: 40.15 Mbps
- Latency: 36.87 MS
Medellin, Colombia
Why is Medellin a good digital nomad city?
The "City of Eternal Spring" welcomes you with perfect weather year-round and a vibrant expat scene. The city stands out especially when you have its resilient infrastructure for coworking, which includes over 40 highly-rated spaces with 4.5+ stars.
Key details
- Population: 2.5 million
- Time Zone: GMT-5
- Language: Spanish (English growing)
- Visa: Digital Nomad visa available for 2 years
Pros
- Extensive coworking options
- Strong digital nomad community
- Excellent public transportation
- Year-round spring climate
- Affordable living costs
Cons
- Spanish knowledge needed
- Rising rental costs in popular areas
- Occasional internet issues during rain
- Some areas require caution at night
Cost of living
Best time to visit
Temperatures stay consistently pleasant, ranging from 62°F to 78°F throughout the year. December to February sees the least rainfall, making these months perfect for digital nomads.
Internet
The city delivers impressive connectivity with:
- Average Download: 130.53 Mbps
- Average Upload: 33.06 Mbps
- Multiple fiber optic providers available
Buenos Aires, Argentina
Why is Buenos Aires a good digital nomad city?
The city's energy combines smoothly with remote work culture. Living costs here are 30-50% lower than most Western countries. The city has a thriving coworking scene with over 20 highly-rated spaces. You can spend productive days and enjoy tango-filled nights.
Key details
- Population: 2.8 million
- Time Zone: GMT-3
- Language: Spanish (English growing)
- Visa: Digital nomad friendly
Pros
- Vibrant cultural scene
- Extensive coworking options
- Affordable luxury living
- Strong expat community
- Excellent public transit (~$0.30 per journey)
Cons
- Variable internet speeds
- High inflation rates
- Language barrier
- Bureaucratic challenges
Cost of living
Best time to visit
Spring (September-November) and fall (March-May) are the best times to visit. Temperatures stay between 59°F to 77°F (15°C to 25°C). January and February can be quite humid, so you might want to avoid these months.
Internet
The city's connectivity varies across areas:
- Average Download: 20-40 Mbps
- Fiber optic available in many areas
- Reliable coworking connections
Tulum, Mexico
Why is Tulum a good digital nomad city?
Tulum's magic comes from its perfect blend of productivity and paradise. The town has plenty of cafes and coworking spaces with reliable WiFi connections. This once-sleepy beach town has become a vibrant hub that attracts content creators and remote professionals.
Key details
- Population: Growing coastal community
- Time Zone: GMT-5
- Language: Spanish (English is accessible to more people)
- Visa: 180-day tourist permit
Pros
- Stunning beaches and cenotes
- Resilient infrastructure for coworking
- Healthy food options
- Active nomad community
- Tropical climate year-round
Cons
- Variable internet speeds
- Expensive taxis ($15-40 per ride)
- Limited local Mexican food
- High tourist prices
Cost of living
Best time to visit
November through February are the best months with average temperatures of 74°F (23°C). You should avoid June-October due to hurricane risks and temperatures that reach 83°F (28.5°C).
Internet
Tulum's connectivity keeps getting better:
- Current speeds: 12 Mbps average
- Reliable connections in coworking spaces
Lima, Peru
Why is Lima a good digital nomad city?
Lima combines affordable living, rich culture, and modern amenities, making it ideal for digital nomads. Its vibrant food scene, growing coworking spaces, and access to nature provide a balanced lifestyle for work and exploration.
Key details
- Population: 10.7 million
- Time Zone: GMT-5
- Language: Spanish
- Visa: Up to 6-month visa available
Pros
- Affordable cost of living
- Excellent coworking spaces and cafes
- World-famous cuisine and dining options
- Rich history and cultural experiences
- Easy access to beaches and nature
Cons
- Traffic congestion and long commutes
- Air pollution during winter months
- Petty crime in certain areas
- Limited English spoken by locals
- Cloudy, humid winters with no sunshine
Cost of living
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Lima is December to March, during its summer season. Temperatures typically range from 70°F to 84°F (21°C to 29°C), with plenty of sunshine and warm coastal breezes, making it perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the city.
Internet
You'll get smooth connectivity here:
- Average Speeds: 30–70 Mbps in urban areas
- Coworking Spaces: Reliable high-speed internet available
- Cafes: Many offer stable Wi-Fi connections
Santiago, Chile
Why is Santiago a good digital nomad city?
Santiago's thriving startup ecosystem includes Start-Up Chile (one of the top 10 accelerators globally). The city creates an amazing environment for digital nomads. Urban amenities abound here, and the city sits perfectly between the Andes and Pacific.
Key details
- Population: 6.7 million
- Time Zone: GMT-4
- Language: Spanish (English growing)
- Visa: 90-day tourist visa
Pros
- Excellent public transportation
- Safe environment
- Strong startup culture
- Walkable city (5/5 rating)
- World-class wine region nearby
Cons
- Language barrier
- Variable air quality
- Seasonal tourist crowds
- Original setup costs
Cost of living
Best time to visit
The best time to visit runs from November through February, with temperatures between 62°F to 88°F. You should avoid June-August as temperatures can drop to 36°F (2°C).
Internet
Santiago delivers impressive connectivity:
- Fixed broadband: 348.98 Mbps download
- Upload: 288.53 Mbps
- Latency: 12ms
San Jose, Costa Rica
Why is San Jose a good digital nomad city?
San Jose's appeal comes from its excellent internet infrastructure that delivers average speeds of 30 Mbps. Digital nomads can choose from several welcoming neighborhoods like Escazu, Barrio Escalante, and La Sabana.
Key details
- Population: 2.8 million
- Time Zone: GMT-6
- Language: Spanish (English growing)
- Visa: 90-day tourist visa
Pros
- Quick access to an international airport
- Housing options for every budget
- Pleasant climate throughout the year
- Modern urban amenities
- Welcoming local culture
Cons
- Rush hour traffic jams
- Safety issues downtown
- Busy city center
- Roads need maintenance
Cost of living
Best time to visit
The best time to visit San José is during the dry season, from December to April. During this period, temperatures typically range from 65°F to 82°F (18°C to 28°C). The days are sunny and pleasant, making it ideal for exploring the city and its surrounding attractions.
Internet
The city's network infrastructure works well:
- Average Download: 30 Mbps
- Fiber optic networks in most areas
- Reliable coverage at coworking spaces
Asia
Bangkok, Thailand
Why is Bangkok a good digital nomad city?
Bangkok combines affordable living, fast internet (100+ Mbps), excellent coworking spaces, vibrant street food, efficient transit (BTS/MRT), and a central hub for exploring Southeast Asia.
Key Details
- Population: 10.7 million
- Time Zone: GMT +7
- Visa: 60-day tourist visa with 30-day extension option
Pros
- Reliable internet infrastructure
- Extensive public transportation network
- Vibrant nightlife and cultural scene
- Large expat community
- Affordable luxury living
Cons
- Heavy traffic congestion
- High humidity
- Air pollution concerns
- The city overwhelms newcomers
Cost of living
Best time to visit
The cool season from November to February brings pleasant weather and less humidity. Tourist crowds peak during these months, so plan accordingly.
Internet
- Average Speeds: 100–300 Mbps in urban areas
- Coworking Spaces: Reliable, high-speed connections for remote work
- Cafes: Many offer stable Wi-Fi, ideal for light tasks
Chiang Mai, Thailand
Why is Chiang Mai a good digital nomad city?
The city combines fast internet, low costs of living, and one of the world's best digital nomad communities. You can live well here for $1,000-1,500 per month. This makes it ideal for seasoned nomads and people who want to start their trip.
Key details
- Population: 1.2 million
- Time Zone: GMT+7
- Language: Thai (English is accessible to more people in nomad areas)
- Visa: 60-day tourist visa with extensions
Pros
- Strong digital nomad community
- Great coworking spaces
- Rich cultural experiences
- Budget-friendly street food (~$0.50-$2 per meal)
- Simple transportation options
Cons
- Burning season (February-May) affects air quality
- Language barrier with locals
- Seasonal tourist crowds
- Visa runs needed for long stays
Cost of living
Best time to visit
The cool season from November to February offers the best weather. The air quality drops by a lot during the burning season from February to May. Prices drop during the rainy season (June-October), and the landscape turns lush green.
Internet
The city's connectivity stands out:
- Average Download: 300 Mbps
- Reliable 4G coverage
- WiFi available commonly in cafes and coworking spaces
Taipei, Taiwan
Why is Taipei a good digital nomad city?
Taipei gives you an exceptional quality of life with living costs 45% lower than Western Europe. The city's strong infrastructure has extensive free WiFi hotspots and many coworking spaces.
Key details
- Population: 2.65 million
- Time Zone: GMT+8
- Language: Mandarin (English growing)
- Visa: 90-day tourist visa
Pros
- Extensive public transportation network
- High-speed internet infrastructure
- Safe environment
- Excellent healthcare system
- Rich food culture
Cons
- Language barrier
- Humid summers
- Restaurant closures (3-4:30 PM daily)
- Limited apartment availability
Cost of living
Best time to visit
October to February offers the best time to visit, with temperatures between 72°F to 86°F (22°C to 30°C). You should skip June-August as humidity peaks and typhoons become common.
Internet
The city's connectivity impresses with:
- Download: 300+ Mbps
- Upload: 100+ Mbps
- Multiple fiber providers available
Canggu (Bali), Indonesia
Why is Canggu (Bali) a good digital nomad city?
The island of Bali combines affordable living costs between $720 to $2,000 per month with a vibrant community of international remote workers. The indoor-outdoor lifestyle feels amazing, especially when you have numerous coworking spaces in popular spots like Canggu and Ubud.
Key details
- Population: 4.3 million (Bali)
- Time Zone: GMT+8
- Visa: B211a Business Visa (60 days, extendable to 6 months)
- Language: Indonesian (English is accessible to more people)
Pros
- Strong coworking culture
- Affordable luxury living
- Year-round tropical climate
- Rich cultural experiences
- Active digital nomad community
Cons
- Seasonal heavy rains
- Variable internet in remote areas
- Visa runs required
- Tropical insects and humidity
Cost of living
Best time to visit
The dry season (April to October) offers the best conditions. May to September has the most comfortable weather with temperatures averaging 81-82°F (27-28°C).
Internet
The island's connectivity meets remote work needs:
- 4G coverage spans most areas
- Fiber optic runs in digital hubs
- Average speeds work well for remote tasks
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Why is Kuala Lumpur a good digital nomad city?
Kuala Lumpur strikes an amazing balance between modern infrastructure and affordability. Digital nomads can live comfortably here for $700 to $815 per month. The city's world-class coworking spaces make it even more attractive.
Key details
- Population: 1.8 million
- Time Zone: GMT+8
- Language: Malay (English accessible to more people)
- Visa: 90-day tourist visa
Pros
- Well-established coworking infrastructure
- Efficient public transportation
- Budget-friendly luxury living
- Strong healthcare system (ranked 3rd globally)
- Rich cultural diversity
Cons
- High humidity
- Communication challenges in some areas
- Crowded tourist spots in central areas
- Complex bureaucratic processes
Cost of living
Best time to visit
The temperature stays steady throughout the year between 75°F to 93°F (23.5°C to 33.5°C). June through August brings the best weather with minimal rainfall.
Internet
The city's internet speeds are impressive:
- Download: 197.74 Mbps
- Upload: 99.25 Mbps
- Latency: 16ms
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Why is this a good digital nomad city?
HCMC's lightning-fast WiFi speeds, budget-friendly accommodation, and rich street food culture create an ideal environment for remote work. The tech scene thrives here and shows no signs of slowing down. The population will reach 13.9 million by 2025.
Key details
- Population: 9 million
- Time Zone: GMT+7
- Language: Vietnamese (English growing)
- Visa: 3-month tourist visa
Pros
- High-speed internet (100+ Mbps standard)
- Strong remote work culture
- Extensive coworking options
- Affordable living costs
- Excellent food scene
Cons
- Motorcycle traffic
- Air pollution
- Language barrier
- Tropical heat
Cost of living
Best time to visit
December through March brings the best weather during dry season. May to September sees high humidity and frequent rainfall.
Internet
The city's connectivity stands out:
- Fixed broadband: 228.07 Mbps download
- Mobile: 129.02 Mbps download
- Latency: 6ms
Europe
Lisbon, Portugal
Why is Lisbon a good digital nomad city?
Life here costs 35% less than Paris and 71% less than London. The city gives you great value while maintaining that classic European lifestyle. The active expat scene and weekly digital nomad meetups help you build connections easily.
Key details
- Population: 2.8 million
- Time Zone: GMT+0
- Visa: D7 visa available for digital nomads
- Language: Portuguese (English accessible to more people)
Pros
- Fast fiber internet infrastructure
- Active digital nomad community
- Beaches just 30 minutes away
- Budget-friendly public transport
- Pleasant climate year-round
Cons
- Housing costs keep increasing
- Summer brings tourist crowds
- Hard to find apartments
- Bureaucracy can be challenging
Cost of living
Best time to visit
The city has mild winters and warm summers. Temperatures stay above 59°F (15°C) most times. Spring or autumn work best if you want to avoid tourist crowds and summer heat.
Internet
Portugal's resilient infrastructure delivers great speeds:
- Download: 266.72 Mbps
- Upload: 123.95 Mbps
- Latency: 14 ms
Berlin, Germany
Why is Berlin a good digital nomad city?
The city boasts over 150 coworking spaces. The thriving startup ecosystem and regular tech events make networking opportunities endless.
Key details
- Population: 3.5 million
- Time Zone: GMT+1
- Language: German (English accessible to more people)
- Visa: Freelance visa available for digital nomads
Pros
- Thriving startup and tech scene
- Extensive public transportation network
- Rich cultural heritage
- Affordable compared to other European capitals
- Active international community
Cons
- Cold winters
- Bureaucratic challenges
- Internet installation delays
- Language barrier in administrative matters
- One of the most expensive cities on this list
Cost of living
Best time to visit
Temperatures in Berlin range from 28°F (-2°C) in January to 81°F (27°C) in July. Spring months (March-May) are perfect to visit as the city comes alive with pleasant temperatures.
Internet
The city provides reliable internet service:
- Median Download: 90.44 Mbps
- Median Upload: 32.69 Mbps
- Multiple fiber optic providers available
Tbilisi, Georgia
Why is Tbilisi a good digital nomad city?
Georgia's very welcoming visa policy lets people from more than 95 countries stay for up to a year without a visa. The city becomes even more attractive when you have its growing coworking scene. Places like Impact Hub and Terminal are a great way to get connections with thriving communities.
Key details
- Population: 1.1 million
- Time Zone: GMT+4
- Language: Georgian (English growing)
- Visa: 1-year visa-free stay
Pros
- Easy visa policy
- High standard of living
- Reliable wifi
- Amazing local cuisine
- Vibrant local culture
Cons
- Poor air quality
- Traffic in some areas
- Language barrier
- Complex online shopping
Cost of living
Best time to visit
July and August can get pretty hot with temperatures reaching 104°F (40°C). Winters stay mild around 50°F (10°C). The best time to visit is between September and November when the weather is perfect and tourist crowds are smaller.
Internet
The city has solid internet speeds:
- Download: 36.17 Mbps
- Upload: 14.06 Mbps
- Latency: 37ms
Prague, Czech Republic
Why is Prague a good digital nomad city?
The city boasts impressive internet speeds of 158.39 Mbps and houses more than 20 coworking spaces. The digital nomad community welcomes newcomers warmingly and organizes regular meetups and events across the city.
Key details
- Population: 1.3 million
- Time Zone: GMT+1
- Language: Czech (English accessible to more people)
- Visa: Digital nomad visa available
Pros
- Excellent public transportation
- Rich cultural heritage
- Affordable compared to Western Europe
- Central European location
- Active expat community
Cons
- Cold winters
- Tourist crowds in summer
- Language barrier with locals
- Rising accommodation costs
Cost of living
Best time to visit
May through September offers the best weather with temperatures between 62°F to 76°F (16.5°C to 24.5°C). December through February brings harsh winters with temperatures dropping below 30°F (-1°).
Internet
Prague delivers smooth connectivity:
- Download: 158.39 Mbps
- Upload: 95.15 Mbps
- Latency: 17ms
Dubai, UAE
Why is Dubai a good digital nomad city?
Digital nomads benefit from the city's zero-income tax policy and exceptional infrastructure. The network of coworking spaces proves impressive, with prices ranging from $12 to $680 per month.
Key details
- Population: 3.5M
- Time Zone: GMT+4
- Visa: Digital Nomad visa ($611)
- Language: Arabic (English accessible to more people)
Pros:
- Zero income tax
- Ultra-fast internet
- Excellent safety rating
- World-class infrastructure
- Strong expat community
Cons:
- High summer temperatures
- Expensive housing
- Cultural adjustment
- Strict regulations
Cost of living
Best time to visit
November through February offers pleasant temperatures. July and August should be avoided as temperatures climb above 104°F (40°C).
Internet
Dubai's connectivity ranks among the world's best:
- Download: 247.7 Mbps (ranked 1st globally)
- Speed improvement: 29.8% year-over-year
Belgrade, Serbia
Why is Belgrade a good digital nomad city?
Belgrade's charm comes from its incredible value, with living costs 58.9% lower than London. The city boasts a thriving tech scene and plenty of coworking spaces that make productive workdays blend naturally into vibrant evenings.
Key details
- Population: 1.7 million
- Time Zone: GMT+1
- Language: Serbian (English accessible to more people)
- Visa: 90-day tourist visa
Pros
- Strong cafe culture for remote work
- Extensive coworking infrastructure
- Very affordable living costs
- Active international community
- Low tax rates
Cons
- Cold winters
- Language barrier
- Internet installation delays
- Rising rental costs in center
Cost of living
Best time to visit
March to October offers the best visiting time, with summer temperatures reaching 81°F (27°C). Winter months bring cold and gray weather, so you might want to plan accordingly .
Internet
The city offers reliable connectivity:
- Download: 36.17 Mbps
- Upload: 14.06 Mbps
- Multiple fiber options available
Split, Croatia
Why is Split a good digital nomad city?
Split combines affordable living with great infrastructure. Living costs here are 53.5% lower than New York City. The city has a thriving digital nomad community that meets in many coworking spaces. The Works and TinkTank are popular spots with daily rates from ~$15.
Key details
- Population: 178,000
- Time Zone: GMT+1
- Language: Croatian (English commonly spoken)
- Visa: Digital nomad visa available
Pros
- Strong coworking infrastructure
- Beautiful beaches nearby
- Rich cultural heritage
- Excellent transportation links
- Growing international community
Cons
- Tourist crowds in summer
- Language barrier with locals
- Limited apartment availability
- Seasonal price fluctuations
Cost of living
Best time to visit
April through June or September through November offer the most pleasant temperatures. Winters stay mild at 59°F (15°C), while summer temperatures can reach 86°F (30°C).
Internet
Split has reliable internet service:
- Average Download: 55.40 Mbps
- Multiple fiber options
- Reliable coworking connections
Athens, Greece
Why is Athens a good digital nomad city?
Athens combines incredible affordability with solid infrastructure. Living costs here are 39% lower than in the United States. The city has a growing coworking scene that includes spaces like Impact Hub and Stone Soup. These spaces build vibrant communities for digital nomads.
Key details
- Population: 3.8 million
- Time Zone: GMT+2
- Language: Greek (English spoken commonly)
- Visa: Digital nomad visa available
Pros
- Extensive coworking infrastructure
- Rich cultural heritage
- Affordable Mediterranean lifestyle
- Close to Greek islands
- Strong cafe culture
Cons
- Very hot summers (up to 104°F, 40°C)
- Language barrier with locals
- Tourist crowds in peak season
- Air quality concerns
Cost of living
Best time to visit
Spring months from April to June and fall months between September and October are ideal times to visit. Summer temperatures soar above 86°F (30°C). Winters stay mild and temperatures rarely drop below 55°F (13°C).
Internet
Athens delivers reliable internet service:
- Fixed broadband: 89.27 Mbps download
- Upload: 25.27 Mbps
- Latency: 27ms
Valencia, Spain
Why is Valencia a good digital nomad city?
The city combines 300 days of sunlight with a vibrant cafe culture that remote workers love. The coworking scene continues to expand rapidly, especially when you have new spaces popping up to welcome the growing remote worker community.
Key details
- Population: 834,000
- Time Zone: GMT+1
- Language: Spanish (English growing)
- Visa: Digital nomad visa available
Pros
- Strong coworking setup
- Vibrant cafe culture
- Excellent public transportation
- Top-notch healthcare system
- Low crime rate
Cons
- Summer temperatures reach 90°F (32°C)
- Language barrier
- Tourist crowds in peak season
- Limited parking options
Cost of living
Best time to visit
The city basks in 300 days of sunlight each year. The best time to visit falls between March and June or September-November when temperatures are pleasant and tourist crowds thin out.
Internet
The city's internet infrastructure stands strong:
- Median Download: 163 Mbps
- Median Upload: 73 Mbps
- Multiple fiber options available
North America
Austin, USA
Why is Austin a good digital nomad city?
Major tech companies like Tesla, Dell, IBM, Apple, and Amazon call Austin home. This creates a vibrant ecosystem where networking and growth opportunities abound. The city's 300 sunny days per year make it even more attractive.
Key details
- Population: 980,000
- Time Zone: GMT-6
- Language: English
- Visa: Not required for US citizens, up to 60-day tourist visa available for non-US citizens
Pros
- Thriving tech scene
- Extensive coworking options
- Bike-friendly city
- Strong freedom of speech
- LGBTQ+ friendly community
Cons
- Hot summers (up to 97°F, 36°C)
- Rising living costs (one of the most expensive cities on this list)
- Car dependency
- Unpredictable winters
Cost of living
Best time to visit
Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) offer the best visiting conditions. July and August should be avoided as temperatures reach 96°F (36°) regularly.
Internet
Austin's connectivity options are excellent:
- AT&T Fiber: Up to 5 Gbps
- Google Fiber: Up to 8 Gbps
- Multiple provider options
Africa
Cape Town, South Africa
Why is Cape Town a good digital nomad city?
The city combines a growing economy with spectacular nature. Digital nomads will appreciate the perfect work-life balance here. The thriving coworking scene and backup power solutions during load shedding make it an attractive destination.
Key details
- Population: 2.8 million
- Time Zone: GMT+2
- Language: English spoken everywhere
- Visa: 90-day tourist visa
Pros
- Spectacular natural scenery
- Rich coffee shop culture
- Vibrant startup ecosystem
- First-world amenities
- Great value for money
Cons
- Regular power outages
- Safety concerns
- Seasonal tourist crowds
- Distance from other nomad hubs
Cost of living
Best time to visit
Mediterranean climate dominates the city with temperatures between 59°F (15°C) to 81°F (27°C). The best time to visit is from November to February when the weather is most pleasant.
Internet
The city center provides stable connections:
- Download: 84.36 Mbps
- Upload: 64.90 Mbps
- Latency: 21ms
Conclusion
These remarkable cities showcase unique advantages for digital nomads. Bangkok and Chiang Mai remain at the forefront with their perfect mix of affordability and infrastructure. New destinations like Tbilisi and Split draw nomads who want fresh experiences.
Successful digital nomad cities share everything in common: reliable internet speeds above 25 Mbps, vibrant coworking communities, and living costs ranging from $1,000-2,000 monthly. Each city adds its own character — Austin's tech ecosystem, Bali's spiritual atmosphere, and Prague's historic charm make them stand out.
The digital world keeps changing shape. Cities across the globe now compete for remote workers by offering specialized visas and building resilient infrastructure. Your ideal destination should match your work style, budget, and priorities instead of following popular spots.
Note that these cities are just a glimpse of possible destinations. Your perfect digital nomad city could be a 10-year old hub like Lisbon or an emerging gem like Valencia — the choice should reflect your personal and professional goals.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are some of the top cities for digital nomads in 2025?
Some of the best cities for digital nomads in 2025 include Bangkok, Lisbon, Medellin, Chiang Mai, and Mexico City. These cities offer a combination of fast internet, affordable living costs, vibrant communities, and digital nomad-friendly infrastructure.
Is there an age limit for becoming a digital nomad?
There is no specific age limit for becoming a digital nomad. As long as you have marketable online skills, you can pursue a digital nomad lifestyle at any age, whether you're in your 30s, 40s, or older.
Which U.S. states are most suitable for digital nomad residency?
Florida and South Dakota are considered among the best U.S. states for digital nomad residency due to their straightforward residency requirements and zero state income tax policies.
What factors make a city ideal for digital nomads?
Ideal digital nomad cities typically offer reliable high-speed internet (at least 25 Mbps), a strong coworking infrastructure, affordable living costs (usually between $1,000-$2,000 per month), good public transportation, and a vibrant community of fellow digital nomads.
How do living costs compare among popular digital nomad destinations?
Living costs vary widely among digital nomad destinations. For example, cities like Chiang Mai and Medellin offer lower costs (around $1,000-$1,500 per month), while places like Austin and Dubai can be more expensive ($1,600-$2,500+ per month). It's important to research and compare costs based on your specific needs and lifestyle preferences.
