As remote work continues to grow, freelancers and digital nomads are becoming more common. While the lifestyle certainly has its perks, there’s one aspect of it that can be tricky: figuring out where to live and work remotely. Choosing a great city or location can really enhance your experience as a freelancer or digital nomad. You want to find a place with affordable living, good internet connectivity, and plenty of things to do. It also doesn’t hurt to be surrounded by other remote workers to share tips and experience with.
In this article, we’re going to introduce more than 10 destinations where you can live and work remotely. These cities aren’t just affordable, they’re also loaded with great amenities and thriving communities of freelancers and digital nomads.
Bali, Indonesia
Bali is an Indonesian island that needs little introduction. It’s been a longtime favorite of surfers and backpackers, but its popularity continues to grow among freelancers and digital nomads for good reason. Bali boasts a vibrant, beachside lifestyle and relaxed pace of living. Its internet connectivity is good, especially considering Bali is an island, and the cost of living is remarkably affordable.
You’ll find no shortage of cafes, co-working spaces, and villas outfitted with comfortable workspaces that will keep you productive. Bali also has a vibrant community of freelancers and digital nomads who frequently host meet-ups, events, and co-working days. Outside of work, you’ll find plenty of beautiful beaches, waterfalls, rice paddies, and ceremonies to fill your days.
Chiang Mai, Thailand
If you’re seeking authentic Thai culture, delicious food, and affordable living, Chiang Mai is the destination for you. Northern Thailand’s biggest city is a hub for freelancers and digital nomads, and it’s not hard to see why. Chiang Mai has an affordable cost of living, and the connection speeds are phenomenal. It also has a thriving co-working scene with plenty of spaces to choose from. But what really sets Chiang Mai apart is how welcoming and supportive the local community is.
There are plenty of meet-ups and events held every week that cater to expats and digital nomads. The city also has a reputation for its beautiful temples, taking in the unique culture, and outdoor recreation opportunities.
Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon is a beautiful, sunny destination that’s often been overlooked by remote workers, and it’s still an underrated destination. With stable temperatures year-round, a vibrant nightlife, and beautiful beaches, it’s hard not to fall in love with Lisbon. It boasts an affordable cost of living, whether you’re dining out or opting for a furnished flat. The city’s tech scene is growing rapidly, so you’ll find no shortage of co-working spaces or community regular meet-ups to keep you connected.
Furthermore, Lisbon is quickly becoming one of the hottest destinations in Europe. Lisbon is a city filled with history, and you can feel it from the moment you set foot in the city. The architecture is a mix of futuristic buildings and ancient spaces, and the people here are friendly, which will make you feel at home. There are also plenty of trendy cafes, bars, and restaurants to get your work done in style.
Medellín, Colombia
Medellín is a city that is so much more than its troubled history. Medellín is an affordable and scenic city that has become a favorite of digital nomads in South America. The local community is incredibly supportive of remote workers, and the city has no shortage of cafes, restaurants, and co-working spaces.
Medellín is also a city that’s easy to fall for. The weather is perfect year-round, and you’ll never run out of things to do. From outdoor sports to exploring the city’s vibrant culture to relaxing in one of the many parks, this is a city that has it all.
Tbilisi, Georgia
If you’re looking for something a little more off the beaten path, you won’t want to overlook Tbilisi. Tbilisi is the capital of Georgia and one of the fastest-growing digital nomad destinations in the world. With its comfortable climate, great food, and affordability, it’s easy to see why so many freelancers and remote workers flock to this city.
Not only is it affordable, but Tbilisi has a strong technology industry, which means a reliable internet connection, and plenty of co-working spaces. Tbilisi also has an incredibly rich history, so it’s easy to spend your downtime visiting the old town or learning about the country’s centuries-old traditions.
Cape Town, South Africa
Cape Town’s stunning scenery, fun-loving, diverse population, and unmatched natural beauty make it one of the most loved digital nomad destinations in Africa. The city has plenty of people who have fallen in love with the lifestyle and infrastructure here, which is a massive incentive for foreigners to visit.
Cape Town is a city that has something for everyone, from beautiful mountains to hike, to stunning beaches to relax on. Plus, it’s a cultural hub, so there’s always something fascinating to learn, whether it’s about South African history or the vibrant culture of the city.
Prague, Czech Republic
Prague is a city that has been attracting digital nomads for years now. An affordable city that is steeped in rich historic culture, Prague has everything a freelancer or remote worker would be looking for. The city is picturesque, and its affordable cost of living means you can enjoy your time there without breaking the bank.
Team that up with an abundance of cafes, restaurants, and coworking spaces, and staying productive here won’t be a problem. Lastly, the food is fantastic, especially if you enjoy Czech dumplings and goulash!
Marrakech, Morocco
Marrakech is a stunning city that has been capturing the hearts of digital nomads for years. This city is a hub of culture and vibrancy that you won’t find anywhere else. The food scene in Marrakech is out of this world, and the city has plenty of amazing cafes to get your work done.
The city is famous for its souks, which offer a unique shopping experience, and the architecture is some of the most beautiful in the world. The cost of living in Marrakech is also affordable, which is another reason why it is one of the top destinations for digital nomads.
Belgrade, Serbia
The capital of Serbia, Belgrade, is a city that is rife with culture and history, and it’s perfect for remote work. The streets of Belgrade boast beautiful architecture and green spaces, making it a historically and visually stunning place to be.
The people in Serbia are also friendly and welcoming, making it easy to make connections with other people who work remotely. Belgrade might be one of the less-known digital nomad destinations, but that doesn’t make it any less desirable. Oh, and did we mention how fantastic the food is?
Budapest, Hungary
Budapest is a stunning city that boasts stunning architecture and some of the best food in the world. The city is full of cafes, restaurants, and other landmarks that will help you make the most of your time here. Being in the city center, you will have access to plenty of transport links to get around.
With an affordable cost of living, Budapest is a great place for anyone looking to save a bit of money while working remotely. The internet connectivity is decent, and there are an abundance of creatives and other digital nomads in Budapest, so you’ll never be bored.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are plenty of destinations where freelancers and digital nomads can thrive. Every place has its own unique vibe, cost of living, and community, so the key is to find the one that feels right for you. Whether you’re looking for a city with affordable living, a vibrant co-working scene or stunning scenery, one of the places on this list is sure to tick all your boxes. Just be sure to pack your laptop and sense of adventure and get ready to enjoy the time of your life.