For digital nomads, the search for connection on the road often leads to two key lifestyle options: coworking spaces and coliving hubs. Both offer much more than just a place to work or sleep—they promise community, collaboration, and maybe even lifelong friendships.
But which one actually delivers a stronger sense of belonging?
Let’s break it down.
💻 What is Coworking?
Coworking spaces are shared offices where freelancers, remote workers, and entrepreneurs come together to work. These spaces often offer high-speed internet, meeting rooms, printers, and coffee—but more importantly, they offer the chance to work alongside like-minded people from around the world.
Benefits:
- Productivity-focused atmosphere
- Networking opportunities with professionals
- Events like skill-sharing, workshops, or meetups
- Work/life separation when traveling
Community Vibe:
Coworking fosters casual conversations—over coffee, in shared lounges, or at after-work events. While it’s often professional-first, friendships can grow from collaboration or consistent desk neighbors.
🛏️ What is Coliving?
Coliving is a housing setup where travelers live together in a shared environment. Think of it as a cross between a hostel, an Airbnb, and a supportive group house. Many coliving spaces cater specifically to remote workers, with built-in coworking areas and scheduled community activities.
Benefits:
- Shared meals, chores, and hangouts create closeness
- Long-form connection—living with people for weeks or months
- Ideal for new cities or countries where you know no one
- Often cheaper than separate rent + coworking
Community Vibe:
Coliving builds connection faster. When you’re cooking together, binge-watching Netflix in the living room, or chatting at midnight, bonds can feel more personal and less transactional than those formed in a workspace.
🤝 Community: Work vs. Home
Coworking Community Strengths
- Great for professional networking
- Easier to maintain boundaries between social and solo time
- Can be less intense than coliving (you leave at the end of the day)
Coliving Community Strengths
- Deep personal bonds due to shared living
- Feels more like chosen family, especially in isolated locations
- More emotional support during the ups and downs of nomad life
That said, the experience depends a lot on the people and how the space is run. Some coworking spaces host epic Friday mixers and mentorship events; some coliving homes fall flat without active community management.
👀 Which One Is Right for You?
- If you prioritize productivity and career: Coworking may serve you better.
- If you crave connection and shared experiences: Coliving might be your ideal.
- If you’re feeling isolated or new to nomad life: Coliving can help you find fast friendships.
- If you’re more introverted or value personal space: Coworking gives you community without the closeness of shared living.
🌐 The Hybrid Option
Many destinations now offer coworking + coliving packages. These hybrid spaces let you live and work in the same community, giving you the best of both worlds. They’re especially common in places like Bali, Lisbon, Medellín, and Chiang Mai—hotspots where nomad culture thrives.
At the end of the day, both coworking and coliving can offer community—it just depends on the kind you’re looking to build. Whether it’s a shared spreadsheet or a shared kitchen that brings people together, the key is showing up, engaging, and being open to connection wherever you land.