The rise of remote work has led to an explosion of digital nomad hotspots worldwide. Some cities stand out due to affordability, high-speed internet, and an attractive lifestyle. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly retreat, a tech-savvy hub, or a beachside paradise, finding the right destination is key to maintaining productivity while enjoying your surroundings.
This ranking highlights some of the best cities for digital nomads based on three essential factors: cost of living, internet speed, and overall lifestyle.
1. Chiang Mai, Thailand
Why Digital Nomads Love It:
Chiang Mai is a longtime favorite among digital nomads, known for its affordability, vibrant coworking culture, and rich cultural scene. The city boasts stunning temples, an active expat community, and some of the best street food in the world.
- Cost of Living: $900 – $1,500 per month (including rent, food, and entertainment)
- Internet Speed: 150+ Mbps (widely available in coworking spaces and cafés)
- Lifestyle: Affordable, relaxed, and full of networking opportunities
Coworking spaces like Punspace and CAMP offer excellent facilities, and there are plenty of coffee shops with strong WiFi.
2. Medellín, Colombia
Why Digital Nomads Love It:
With a spring-like climate year-round, Medellín is called the “City of Eternal Spring.” It’s an exciting destination for remote workers due to its growing tech scene, modern infrastructure, and affordable cost of living.
- Cost of Living: $1,200 – $2,000 per month
- Internet Speed: 100+ Mbps (good coverage in most apartments and coworking spaces)
- Lifestyle: Dynamic, social, and culturally rich
The city is home to numerous coworking spaces like Selina and Atomhouse. Nomads enjoy the city’s metro system, making transportation easy and cheap.
3. Bali, Indonesia
Why Digital Nomads Love It:
Bali is famous for its beautiful beaches, spiritual retreats, and digital nomad-friendly vibe. Ubud and Canggu are top areas for remote workers looking for a balance of work and play.
- Cost of Living: $1,200 – $2,500 per month
- Internet Speed: 50–100 Mbps (improving, with fiber-optic available in major hubs)
- Lifestyle: Relaxed, wellness-oriented, and community-driven
Coworking spaces like Dojo Bali and Outpost provide a productive work environment, while the island offers endless opportunities for relaxation.
4. Lisbon, Portugal
Why Digital Nomads Love It:
Lisbon has become one of Europe’s top remote work destinations, offering an excellent quality of life, a strong international community, and easy access to other European cities.
- Cost of Living: $2,000 – $3,500 per month
- Internet Speed: 200+ Mbps (one of the fastest in Europe)
- Lifestyle: Historic, scenic, and lively
The city’s coworking spaces, such as Second Home and Heden, are great for networking. Lisbon’s food scene, surf spots, and cultural attractions make it a fantastic long-term base.
5. Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Why Digital Nomads Love It:
Ho Chi Minh City is one of Southeast Asia’s most exciting digital nomad hubs, offering a low cost of living and a high-energy urban lifestyle.
- Cost of Living: $800 – $1,500 per month
- Internet Speed: 150+ Mbps (fast and reliable)
- Lifestyle: Fast-paced, modern, and budget-friendly
With plenty of coworking spaces, such as The Hive and Dreamplex, Ho Chi Minh City is an excellent choice for digital nomads who enjoy city life.
6. Mexico City, Mexico
Why Digital Nomads Love It:
Mexico City is an up-and-coming digital nomad hotspot with a growing number of expats, fantastic food, and an energetic cultural scene.
- Cost of Living: $1,500 – $2,500 per month
- Internet Speed: 100+ Mbps (fiber-optic in many areas)
- Lifestyle: Lively, diverse, and full of history
Neighborhoods like Roma and Condesa are filled with coworking spaces, trendy cafés, and great nightlife, making it an attractive city for remote workers.
7. Budapest, Hungary
Why Digital Nomads Love It:
Budapest offers a blend of affordability, strong infrastructure, and European charm. It’s a great option for nomads who want a central European base without the high costs of Western Europe.
- Cost of Living: $1,500 – $2,500 per month
- Internet Speed: 200+ Mbps (high-speed internet widely available)
- Lifestyle: Historic, cultural, and social
Coworking spaces like Impact Hub and KAPTÁR provide excellent work environments, while the city’s famous thermal baths offer relaxation after a long workday.
8. Tbilisi, Georgia
Why Digital Nomads Love It:
Tbilisi is gaining popularity due to its affordability, friendly visa policies, and emerging digital nomad scene. The country offers a 1-year visa-free stay for many nationalities.
- Cost of Living: $1,000 – $1,800 per month
- Internet Speed: 100+ Mbps (reliable and affordable)
- Lifestyle: Unique, budget-friendly, and welcoming
Tbilisi’s creative atmosphere, low prices, and scenic landscapes make it a great destination for those seeking a hidden gem in Eastern Europe.
9. Playa del Carmen, Mexico
Why Digital Nomads Love It:
For digital nomads who want a mix of beach life and modern amenities, Playa del Carmen is an excellent choice.
- Cost of Living: $1,500 – $2,500 per month
- Internet Speed: 100+ Mbps (available in coworking spaces)
- Lifestyle: Relaxed, tropical, and community-focused
Coworking spaces like BUNKER and Nest provide strong internet connections, and the nearby cenotes and beaches offer plenty of outdoor activities.
10. Barcelona, Spain
Why Digital Nomads Love It:
Barcelona combines urban life with Mediterranean beach vibes, making it one of the best European cities for digital nomads.
- Cost of Living: $2,500 – $4,000 per month
- Internet Speed: 300+ Mbps (very fast and reliable)
- Lifestyle: Vibrant, artistic, and full of nightlife
With top-tier coworking spaces like Betahaus and MOB, excellent transportation, and rich cultural experiences, Barcelona is a dream city for remote workers.
Each of these destinations offers something unique, whether it’s an affordable lifestyle, a fast internet connection, or an inspiring community. Digital nomads and remote workers can choose a location that fits their budget, work style, and personal preferences while enjoying a fulfilling work-travel balance.