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Cities for Digital Nomads offer a unique lifestyle that blends work and exploration without breaking the bank. Are you aching to explore the world, but limited funds are holding you back? Discover the best travel hack that allows you to see the world without a hefty savings account. Travel while you work or work while you travel as you live the life of a digital nomad.
I define budget-friendly as a measurement of a given country’s currency value and the city’s standard of living. This includes accommodation, food, transportation, and recreational activities.
Touching on six continents, while affordability is the top criterion, quality of life, safety, minimal language barriers, and the ease of obtaining a visa are also factors. The work-related features that Digital Nomads require to get their jobs done, such as fast internet, co-working space, and the ability to network, are also important elements that were considered.
Auckland, New Zealand
Located in the South Pacific Ocean, New Zealand has two main islands: the South Island and the North Island, where Auckland, the largest city in the country, is located. Surrounded by stunning landscapes, Auckland offers a diverse culture encompassing the indigenous Maori people. You’ll discover a thriving café culture, friendly locals, and modern infrastructure and technologies.
While internet speed is good, it is not as fast as the other cities mentioned. Making friends and networking is simple among a youthful population. Outdoor adventurers and nature enthusiasts will find easy access to endless activities such as whitewater rafting, hiking, and canyoning not too far from the city limits.
Bali, Indonesia
Off the coast of mainland Southeast Asia, Bali is a group of four islands that are part of Indonesia, an archipelago. We usually refer to the main island as Bali, but Bali is also the name of a province, including the main island and three smaller islands.
Denpasar is the capital and the largest city. Two areas not too far from the capital are ideal for digital nomads. Canggu, which sits on the southern coast, and Ubud, in the north, nestled in the mountains. Both areas offer modern and cozy co-working spaces, demonstrating that working solo doesn’t have to be associated with isolation.
Chiang Mai, Thailand
When people think of Thailand, they think of white sandy beaches. But just farther north, tucked in the mountains, is Chiang Mai, a jungle oasis where one can experience colorful local markets, wildlife sanctuaries, and ancient temples. Chiang Mai has a tight-knit digital nomad community, many co-working spaces, and high-speed internet.
In your spare time, just outside the city, there is ample opportunity to explore the forest and some of its animal sanctuaries, where you may spot elephants, water buffalo, and, if you’re lucky, the elusive tiger. Though you’re far from the beach, there are plenty of rivers to float along that snake through the mountains, making for wild and beautiful scenery.
Dubrovnik, Croatia
Sitting on the Adriatic Sea, Dubrovnik is a walled medieval seaport city where you can wander its narrow cobblestone streets leading you through a maze of cathedrals, open-air markets, and outdoor cafes. As you explore, you’ll catch glimpses of breathtaking sea views at every turn.
Croatia offers a digital nomad visa, which is reasonably easy to obtain. Since its creation in 2021, many cities have increased amenities and businesses that cater to this new clientele. The locals are friendly and accommodating, and Croatia’s location and infrastructure make it easy to discover its neighboring countries.
Hanoi, Vietnam
One of the oldest cities in the world and the capital of Vietnam, Hanoi awakens all of the senses. Experience its loud, blaring traffic, the aromas of street food, and its architecture influenced by both French and Chinese occupations. Within this highly urbanized setting, you are never too far from natural beauty as the city is surrounded by mountains and lakes and sits on the banks of the Red River.
While Hanoi is certainly cheap, it’s a loud, hustle-and-bustle city. If you don’t want to ride a scooter everywhere, it’s not the best choice for a long-term stay because there is no real infrastructure for public transportation. There are plenty of internet cafes with comfortable settings and a few co-working spaces to connect with like-minded souls.
Hobart, Australia
The island state capital of Tasmania has the lowest cost of living in Australia, but it’s also the least populated city. Ideal for wildlife lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, Hobart offers countless easy-to-access outdoor activities. Discover the city’s harbor views from nearby sea cliffs, hike to explore Mount Wellington, or kayak along the waterfront.
Hobart offers good internet speed, but it’s not lightning-fast. While there are many things to do for adventure, the social scene is not as exciting as other cities mentioned. All that said, Australia is rising to meet the tremendous influx of digital nomads, making visa applications uncomplicated and making co-working spaces available.
Marrakesh, Morocco
An oasis in the desert, Marrakesh offers countless things to do and explore. This city has long been an international crossroads for travelers. Its high-spirited atmosphere offers all the qualities of a big city, along with kind people. Leaving town and heading to the mountains or desert sands is also easy. While Marrakesh’s cost of living may be high for Morocco, it remains low for travelers with dollars, sterling, or euros.
Due to the city’s long experience with global visitors, getting set up in town is trouble-free for a digital nomad. While Marrakesh and Morocco are considered safe from violent crime, petty crime is a reality. However, using a little common sense should help you avoid problems. Also, be prepared to negotiate for most things.
READ MORE: 10 Ways Pro Digital Nomads Travel Easy
Medellín, Colombia
When we hear the country Colombia, the first thing that comes to mind is drug trafficking. And for good reason: in the 1970s and 80s, the country was riddled with drug violence. But these days, Medellin has been cleaned up and has become a tourist-friendly destination rich with culture, food, and history.
The only downside is the pollution. However, this is offset by a low-cost lifestyle, friendly people, and the extreme ease of leaving the city center to explore the mountains surrounding it. Medellin is one of my choices because of its strong digital nomad community and modern business model. UNESCO also cites it as one of the most creative cities in South America.
Oaxaca, Mexico
Oaxaca is a region in southern Mexico surrounded by mountains. This region is culturally diverse due to the strong influence of two major indigenous groups, the Zapoteca and the Mixtec. However, many smaller groups leave their traces here. Because it isn’t as easily accessible as other parts of Mexico, this impressive region, including Oaxaca City, is less touristy and enjoys a low standard of living.
Oaxaca is an up-and-coming hot spot for digital nomads. There is good Wi-Fi and co-working spaces, and as there is always something going on, it’s effortless to connect with fellow nomads.
Penang Island, Malaysia
This island is located just off the northwest coast of Malaysia. Its multicultural capital, Georgetown, was once an important trading hub and has been a top expat destination for many years. As a former British colony, the current local population is made up of Chinese, Malay, and Indian, thereby giving this city a rich cultural heritage.
Offering all the charm of a big city but at a slower pace, you’ll discover colonial architecture, Chinese shops and temples, narrow walkways, and mosques. Digital nomads will enjoy a full calendar of local events and activities and network with like-minded individuals.
Porto, Lisbon
Probably most famous for its port wine, this northwest coastal city offers so much more. Enjoy the historic city center and stroll the cobblestoned streets as you wander through the medieval district of Ribeira. One of Europe’s oldest city centers, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
For a few years now, Portugal has offered a digital nomad visa for those who wish to stay for more than three months. As such, everything, including accommodations, co-working spaces, and connecting with new people, is set up to make the life of a digital nomad quite painless.
San Antonio, Texas
These days, it’s hard to find a budget-friendly city in the States, but this pleasant town meets the requirements. Located in central southern Texas, San Antonio is the most expensive city of my picks. However, by U.S. standards, it offers an affordable lifestyle with beautiful outdoor spaces such as the landmark Riverwalk.
You’ll find a rich cultural heritage, including famous sites such as the Alamo, an 18th-century mission, and Tex-Mex cuisine. Digital nomads will enjoy the nomad community and a jam-packed cultural calendar of activities and events.
Santiago, Chile
The capital of Chile, Santiago, sits in a valley surrounded by the snow-capped Andes Mountains. Enjoy wandering the colonial streets to discover galleries and museums and taste the local dishes. While living in this vibrant city, you’re never too far from outdoor exploration, as it’s simple to get away and discover the nearby mountains or head to the coast to catch the sunset.
While there is not a specific visa for nomads, visa regulations are uncomplicated. Santiago has good Wi-Fi, but it’s not lightning-fast, and there is an up-and-coming nomad community.
Tirana, Albania
Just north of Greece, Albania lies on the Adriatic Sea. Tirana, its capital, can be found in the center of the country, encircled by mountains and just seventeen miles from the coastline. This is probably one of the most underrated European cities, and as a result, it is highly budget-friendly.
Still little known, Tirana has many co-working spaces, and the youthful nomad community is growing. Albania offers a digital nomad visa, and travelers find the city very safe with helpful and friendly locals.
Tivat, Montenegro
Sandwiched between Albania and Croatia along the Adriatic coastline is Montenegro. Tivat is a small coastal town where nomads can enjoy the waterfront and its youthful vibe. There are plenty of things to see and do, so if spending your free time on the beach doesn’t suit you, there are a lot of outdoor activities to enjoy. While the internet is fast, there is only one co-working space, and the nomad community is rather small. Aside from that, if you are looking for a small beach town and some peace while connecting with nature, this might be the spot for you.
