To be considered one of the best digital nomad cities, each destination must check a few key boxes, like a reliable and fast internet connection, work-friendly spaces, affordable living, safety, and being a cool and interesting place. Check out our top 3 best countries for nomad living (some with multiple cities listed).
1. Thailand
Quality internet connection is obviously an absolute necessity for anyone who plans on spending any amount of time online. Thailand, the number 1 country in our list, presents 3 top rated cities for nomad living with ADSL speeds averaging at 25Mbps (or higher). Relatively low cost-of-living and ample internet availability both mean that you won’t break your budget while enjoying life as tourists typically do. Thailand is known not only for its wonderful beaches, beautiful temples, unique markets, and lush forests, but also for big city amenities in places like Bangkok. Visitors are allowed to stay for 2 months at a time with the option of 1 month extension.
Best places in Thailand and why we like them
- Chai Mai offers ample infrastructure like coworking spaces and cafes, and a robust nomad community.
Internet: average wifi speed at 30Mbps,
Things to do: great food, culture, night markets, temples, jungle
Cost of living: expect to spend around $1000 USD/ month - Krabi offers tons of fun beach and outdoor activities and is home to the best MMA gym in Asia.
Internet: average wifi speed at 25Mbps,
Things to do: outdoor activities like hiking, beach activities, martial arts training.
Cost of living: expect to spend around $1150 USD/ month - Bangkok offers big city amenities like bars, restaurants, clubs, markets, shops, a good subway system and it’s a great hub to visit other parts of Thailand.
Internet: average wifi speed at 33Mbps,
Things to do: countless restaurants, bars, clubs, shops, tours.
Cost of living: expect to spend around $1350 USD/ month
2. Bali
The most popular vacation spot in Indonesia, Bali is home to an ancient culture that’s known for its warm hospitality as well as exotic temples and palaces set against stunning natural backdrops. Lush rainforests, stunning silver-white beaches, beautiful rice fields, endless restaurant options, coworking spaces, excellent cafes, plenty of expats, and a spiritual, laid back feel can all be found here. You are likely to find a considerable amount of Australian visitors at any given time so most people speak English in stores and restaurants. Digital nomads are allowed to stay for 5 months or 1 year at a time.
- Ubud has a very peaceful and spiritual vibe, surrounded by rice fields, nature and healthy eating options.
Internet: average wifi speed at 10Mbps,
Things to do: enjoy the peaceful vibe and healthy living for mind, body and soul.
Cost of living: expect to spend around $1200 USD/ month - Canggu is Ubud’s livelier counterpart with western style cafes and restaurants, with a mix of party and surf vibe.
Internet: average wifi speed at 20Mbps,
Things to do: beach fun and sports, restaurants, bars, shops.
Cost of living: expect to spend around $1350 USD/ month
Portugal
This country has become one of the most popular destinations for digital nomads with quality internet, beautiful beaches, proximity to nature, lovely weather all year round, and being a great hub for quick trips to other european locations. Portugal receives many British and Australian tourists so there is a decent number of people there speaking English. Rent is cheap for European standards and there are amazing islands like Madeira and Azores just a short flight away from Lisbon, known for their amazing Port wine and cod dishes. Portugal is offering up to 1 year special visa programs for digital nomads.
- Lisbon is very walkable, safe, full of history and great places to eat.
Internet: average wifi speed at 30Mbps,
Things to do: restaurants, bars, shops, sightseeing, museums.
Cost of living: expect to spend around $2000 USD/ month - Ponta do Sol, in the Madeira island, has created a special program to welcome digital nomads, providing a free communal workspace, wifi and exclusive events from 8am to 10pm daily at the John dos Passos Cultural Centre.
Internet: average wifi speed at 30Mbps,
Things to do: beautiful beaches, great local restaurants and bars, scenic hiking trails.
Cost of living: expect to spend around $1700 USD/ month
