Everyone knows about Bali, Lisbon, MedellĂn, and Chiang Mai. These digital nomad hotspots are tried-and-true favorites for a reasonâbut if you’re looking to escape the crowds, rising prices, or simply want to be ahead of the curve, itâs time to explore the next wave of nomad-friendly cities.
Here are some underrated (but quickly growing) destinations where remote workers are quietly building communitiesâand where you might want to plant your laptop next.
đď¸ 1. Diani Beach, Kenya
Why itâs rising: A stunning stretch of white sand, low cost of living, and a budding expat community make Diani Beach an unexpected gem for digital nomads.
Highlights:
- Reliable Wi-Fi in most accommodations and cafĂŠs
- Strong tourism infrastructure with fewer crowds than Mombasa
- Safari and diving adventures on your days off
Nomad vibe: Tranquil, beachy, and off-the-radarâideal for deep work sprints.
đď¸ 2. Tbilisi, Georgia
Why itâs rising: Tbilisi has started gaining buzz, but itâs still underappreciated compared to European capitals. With a one-year visa-free stay for many nationalities and low taxes, itâs a freelancerâs dream.
Highlights:
- Incredible wine, food, and culture
- Affordable apartments with great workspaces
- Mountains, hot springs, and hiking just outside the city
Nomad vibe: Creative, affordable, and slightly edgy. Great for artists, writers, and techies.
đŻ 3. Da Nang, Vietnam
Why itâs rising: Sandwiched between tourist-packed Hanoi and Saigon, Da Nang offers a balance of beach life and city amenitiesâwithout the chaos.
Highlights:
- Coastal living at budget prices
- Fast-growing cafĂŠ and coworking scene
- Friendly locals and access to historic Hoi An
Nomad vibe: Peaceful with room to breatheâideal for those who want Vietnam without the overwhelm.
đď¸ 4. Bansko, Bulgaria
Why itâs rising: Once known mainly as a ski resort, Bansko is now attracting year-round digital nomads thanks to a thriving coworking scene and low cost of living.
Highlights:
- Active digital nomad festivals and events
- Fast internet even in the mountains
- EU access with a slower pace and smaller crowd
Nomad vibe: Community-first, great for outdoorsy types and seasonal work retreats.
đ 5. Essaouira, Morocco
Why itâs rising: Forget MarrakeshâEssaouira is a laid-back coastal city with an artsy feel and growing infrastructure for remote workers.
Highlights:
- Beach meets bohemian lifestyle
- Cooler climate and fewer tourists than other Moroccan cities
- Strong cafĂŠ culture and solid internet options
Nomad vibe: Artistic, soulful, and scenicâperfect for creatives and solo travelers.
đď¸ 6. Puebla, Mexico
Why itâs rising: While everyone flocks to Mexico City or Playa del Carmen, Puebla offers charm, culture, and lower costs without sacrificing quality of life.
Highlights:
- Great food, colonial architecture, and vibrant markets
- Close to volcanoes and mountain trails
- Coworking spaces and a few hidden expat gems
Nomad vibe: Historic, colorful, and community-drivenâa slower pace with high creative energy.
đď¸ 7. Belgrade, Serbia
Why itâs rising: Serbia is one of Europeâs most underrated digital nomad destinations, and Belgrade sits at the heart of itâwith strong tech talent, epic nightlife, and surprising affordability.
Highlights:
- Modern apartments and coworking options
- No visa required for many travelers for up to 90 days
- An emerging startup scene
Nomad vibe: Lively, gritty, and full of surprisesâideal for night owls and networkers.
đ´ 8. Santa Marta, Colombia
Why itâs rising: While MedellĂn takes the spotlight, Santa Marta offers a quieter, more nature-focused alternative right on the Caribbean.
Highlights:
- Close to Tayrona National Park and untouched beaches
- Lower costs than Cartagena
- Reliable Wi-Fi and a small but growing remote worker scene
Nomad vibe: Beach-town calm with a side of jungle adventure.
đ 9. Lviv, Ukraine (Once Safe to Return)
Why itâs rising: Before the war, Lviv was quietly climbing the ranks as an Eastern European digital nomad favorite. Once the region is safe, itâs likely to regain its momentum.
Highlights:
- Old-world charm meets tech innovation
- Cozy cafĂŠs with great coffee and connectivity
- Low costs and warm hospitality
Nomad vibe: Resilient, welcoming, and full of potential.
đ Tips for Exploring Emerging Hubs
- Join Facebook or Reddit groups to get a feel for the local nomad vibe
- Check Nomad List or digital nomad maps for real-time data
- Visit for a month before committing long-term
- Be respectful of local culturesâdonât expect Bali-style infrastructure overnight
These rising stars may not be the most popular yetâbut theyâre full of opportunity, connection, and affordability. The best part? Youâll get to experience something unique, while helping shape the next generation of digital nomad hubs.