Over the past few years, and especially in 2024, the digital nomad lifestyle has become more popular than ever. It’s no surprise, right? Remote jobs are way more accessible now, and the cost of living in many Western countries is skyrocketing.
I feel like so many people are just looking for an easier and better life elsewhere in the world. And honestly, who can blame them when rent prices, especially in the US, are crazier than ever?
To help all you digital nomads or aspiring digital nomads out there, I’ve put together some tips to find the best places to live as a digital nomad in 2024. You deserve to live your dream life, and I’m here to guide you to the perfect spots.
I’ve been living as a digital nomad for a while now, and I’m excited to share my personal recommendations!
- What defines the Best Places to live as a Digital Nomad?
- My Top Picks for Digital Nomads in 2024
- Mexico City, Mexico
- Lisbon, Portugal
- Medellin, Colombia
- Hiriketiya, Sri Lanka
- Cape Town, South Africa
- Bali, Indonesia
- Best Places to Live as a Digital Nomad – Frequently Asked Questions
What defines the Best Places to live as a Digital Nomad?
When I started brainstorming for this article, the first thing that popped into my head was, what actually makes a place a great spot for digital nomads? You know, those hotspots around the globe where all the digital nomads seem to flock to, but what sets them apart? After some research and self-reflection, I’ve come to the conclusion that there are a few key factors that make a place truly ideal for digital nomads. These include:
- Cost of living: As a digital nomad, you’re likely trying to save money while still enjoying your surroundings. Therefore, finding a place with a low cost of living is essential.
- Internet connectivity: Let’s face it, as a digital nomad, you need reliable and fast internet access to do your job properly. So, choosing a location with good wifi availability is crucial.
- Community: Being a digital nomad can get lonely at times, so having a strong community of like-minded individuals in your chosen location can make all the difference.
- Safety: This one goes without saying, but safety is always a top priority when choosing a place to live. It’s important to research the crime rates and overall safety of a location before committing to living there.
- Work-life balance: While working as a digital nomad, it can be easy to fall into the trap of working all the time. Finding a place that offers a good work-life balance with plenty of opportunities for relaxation and exploration is key.
My Top Picks for Digital Nomads in 2024
I’ve been traveling and working remotely on and off for the past 5 years, which means I’ve checked out most of these places myself and got to see what all the fuss is about. So, here are my personal top picks for the best places to live as a digital nomad
Mexico City, Mexico
Cost of Living: 8/10
Internet connectivity: 8/10
Community: 6/10
Safety: 5/10
Work-life balance: 8/10
Let’s get straight into one of the top destinations for digital nomads, especially if you’re from the US. If you’re from Europe or Australia, Mexico City might seem far away, but for those in the US, it could be just a quick two-hour flight. Plus, there’s no time difference, which is a huge bonus!
Mexico City is one of the coolest places I’ve lived in so far. It offers that exciting big-city vibe while being super affordable. The city is packed with amazing restaurants, cafes, and street food. Public transport is great, Ubers are cheap, and there’s always something happening.
I know Mexico City has a bit of a reputation regarding safety, but trust me, it’s super safe if you stick to the touristy areas. Roma, Roma Norte, and La Condesa are the hotspots for digital nomads. If you stay in these neighborhoods and the city center, you’ll be more than fine. These areas also have plenty of coliving spaces, coworking spots, accommodations, and cafes.
Co-working Spaces for Digital Nomads
WeWork
When it comes to coworking spaces, the heavyweight champion right now, worldwide or at least in most major cities, has to be WeWork. They’ve got 16 different locations in Mexico City alone, so there’s really no excuse for not finding a spot that fits you perfectly!
WeWork offers these super stylish and practical offices where you can rent a desk in a shared office, a private office, or even a conference room. Personally, I love hitting up these proper office spaces when I have a big day and a ton to do. It’s so much easier to focus in a good office environment.
Plus, the coworking spots here are super affordable, in my opinion. You can grab a day pass at their ‘Reforma 26’ location for just $20 or opt for a monthly pass at their ‘Mitikah’ location starting at only $110!
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Publico
Another fantastic spot in Mexico City is Publico. They have seven locations scattered throughout the city, each with its own unique vibe and amenities. Personally, I love working out of their ‘Reforma’ location—it’s more laid-back and offers a stunning view of the city.
All their locations are super stylish, often featuring darker wooden decor that feels like a cool blend of a badass office and an artsy creation space. If you’re into more creative work, Publico is perfect; some locations even offer studios and audio recording facilities.
Their monthly membership starts at $190, giving you access to any of their locations, unlimited coffee and tea, meeting rooms, printing services, and even art galleries and events. It’s a great deal for anyone looking to work in a dynamic and inspiring environment!
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Dosis Cafe
Lastly, if you’re in Mexico City, I highly recommend checking out a little cafe that’s a super popular spot among freelancers and remote workers. It’s called Dosis Cafe, and you’ll find it in the trendy neighborhood of Roma Norte. The place has a cozy yet modern vibe, plenty of seating, and absolutely delicious coffee.
The food here is also amazing, making it my go-to spot for breakfast and coffee. It’s the perfect place to treat yourself in the morning and get an hour or two of work done. However, keep in mind that it’s not the spot to camp out for the entire day—after all, it’s a cafe! Plus, there are no outlets, so make sure to come fully charged!
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Accommodation for Digital Nomads
Outsite
My favorite co-living space in Mexico City is definitely Outsite. Located in the charming Roma Sur neighborhood, it’s a beautifully designed space that feels like a perfect blend of a boutique hotel and a creative hub.
They offer a range of accommodations—from private rooms to shared rooms, and even small studios for rent. The facilities are top-notch, featuring an outdoor terrace, coworking space, and a communal kitchen. Plus, there’s an on-site cafe and restaurant, perfect for hanging out after a long workday.
What’s great is that their prices are pretty reasonable too. Normal rooms start at around $50 a night, while studios with a kitchen kick off at about $70. They even have a membership program offering discounts and special perks.
But honestly, the best part of any co-living space is the community. In a massive city like Mexico City, making friends and meeting new people can be a challenge. Living in a co-living area is a game-changer for making friends—trust me, I know from experience!
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Lisbon, Portugal
Cost of Living: 4/10
Internet connectivity: 8/10
Community: 8/10
Safety: 8/10
Work-life balance: 6/10
If you’re looking for a fantastic city to embrace the digital nomad lifestyle in Western Europe, then Lisbon is an absolute no-brainer. The city is super sunny, has some seriously beautiful architecture, and has a lively, fun local culture. Plus, there’s a surprisingly large digital nomad community around.
Being in Europe, the public transport is excellent, and many areas in Lisbon are quite walkable. I never felt like I needed a car because I mainly just used the tram or walked everywhere!
Personally, I’m a big fan of Lisbon because, well, it’s Europe, right? How amazing is it to spend the summer in a European capital right by the ocean? On top of that, it has a relatively low cost of living compared to other major cities in Western Europe.
Visas can sometimes be a bit tricky when heading to Europe, as EU visa restrictions are getting tighter. But if you’re from the EU and looking to relocate closer to the ocean, Lisbon is a fantastic choice.
Co-working Spaces for Digital Nomads
Heden
One of my favorite coworking spaces in Lisbon is Heden. It’s my go-to spot whenever I need to get some work done. They have five locations scattered throughout the city, making it super convenient no matter where you are. Their aim is to ensure you’re no more than 15 minutes away from a Heden, which is fantastic!
Heden’s coworking spaces are clean, modern, and efficient—true to European standards. You’ll find a kitchen you can use, free printing, and all sorts of other amenities.
The pricing is pretty fair too. A half-day pass at a desk costs around $15, and if you want your own desk for a month, it’s about $360. It’s a great deal for the quality and convenience you get.
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The Base
I’ve never been to The Base in Lisbon, but I’ve heard fantastic things about it. It’s a bit smaller than other spaces, but honestly, I sometimes prefer that. Especially when you’re after a more social atmosphere at work, it’s kinda nice to see the same faces regularly and meet new people.
The co-working space is super modern and well-designed, and another cool perk is their second location in Ericeira, which all surfers absolutely love!
I’m not sure if they cater to walk-ins, but for around $170 a month, you get unlimited access to all their services at both locations. It’s a great deal if you want to check out Ericeira as well!
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Accommodation for Digital Nomads
Yon Living
Honestly, one of the coolest places to stay in Lisbon is Yon Living. It feels more like you’re living in a real apartment with friends rather than in a coworking space, which is pretty much what it is anyway.
Yon Living is advertised as a coliving space, but you basically rent a room in an apartment you’ll share with up to six other people. Don’t worry—this is not some dingy hostel deal. The apartments are super fancy, with some beautiful lofts right in the heart of Lisbon, featuring up to 7 bedrooms and huge communal areas. Every room comes with a desk and top-notch internet speeds.
Some rooms start at just $40 a night and go up to $60 for the bigger ones. Plus, you can even rent a room as a couple!
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Medellin, Colombia
Cost of Living: 7/10
Internet connectivity: 8/10
Community: 9/10
Safety: 2/10
Work-life balance: 8/10
Alright, so with this next one, we’re diving into something a bit more adventurous. Medellin is definitely one of the coolest cities to hang out in for a while and has kinda become one of the top digital nomad destinations in South America. I spent a few months in Medellin working from my laptop, and honestly, I totally recommend it overall, but there are a few things you should keep in mind.
Medellin is one of those awesome digital nomad hubs because it has that unique edge. On one side, you’ve got the super cool, hipster vibe in areas like El Poblado, and on the other, you’ve got traditional Colombian neighborhoods rich in culture and history. In El Poblado, you’ll find plenty of hostels, amazing cafes, restaurants, and co-living spaces. This is where most expats and digital nomads tend to live.
However, just a heads-up: crime is a real thing in Colombia, especially in Medellin. I haven’t had any issues myself, but I’ve heard plenty of stories about armed robberies and such. So, stick to areas like El Poblado and don’t wander around too much, especially not on your own.
Co-working Spaces & Cafes for Digital Nomads
Bloom Eco-Working
With Bloom Eco-Working, I’ll get straight to the point—this is hands down my favorite co-working spot in Latin America, period. While most co-working spaces feel like a regular office (which is kinda the point, right?), this one’s a bit special. They’re all about making sure you have an awesome experience while you’re there.
Bloom is on the smaller side, but it’s surrounded by lush rainforests, and they’ve got lots of terraces, outdoor work spots, and more. They even offer yoga classes and other cool events worth checking out. From my experience, most people here spoke Spanish, including the staff, but don’t sweat it—I don’t speak Spanish and got by just fine with English.
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Pergamino
I just have to give a shoutout to another cafe I’ve been to countless times—it would be rude not to mention it! Pergamino is a super cool and modern spot in El Poblado, perfect for getting some work done.
They’ve got two floors, and their second floor is laptop-friendly, so feel free to set up shop with your computer. Most of the tables even have a plug nearby for charging. The food is absolutely delicious—seriously, try their egg skillet for breakfast. And their coffees are spot on.
Now, about the prices—yes, they’re a bit steeper than elsewhere in Colombia and South America, but hey, it’s El Poblado. I think that’s to be expected. Still way cheaper than in the US though!
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Accommodation for Digital Nomads
Kiin Medellin
Please hear me out when I tell you about this next co-living space because I’ll start with the one con before giving you all the pros. Are you ready? Okay, the one con is the living costs. The price at Kiin seems absolutely ridiculous at around $2000 a month in Medellin! Okay, now that we’ve got that out of the way, let’s talk about what makes this co-living space so amazing.
If you’re one of many digital nomads seeking proper luxury and a super cool lifestyle, then this is the spot for you. Their apartments are super modern, and you can pick between a studio, a one-bedroom, or a two-bedroom apartment. But where it really gets crazy is the amenities, and I think the easiest for me is to just list them all: They have a rooftop pool, a mega rooftop hot tub, a cafe, a mini market, a yoga studio, a gym, a spa, a hairdresser/barber shop, a rooftop BBQ area, and, of course, a super modern coworking space as well. So, if you’re happy to spend a little more money, you definitely will get a lot in return.
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Hiriketiya, Sri Lanka
Cost of Living: 9/10
Internet connectivity: 5/10
Community: 7/10
Safety: 8/10
Work-life balance: 8/10
If you’ve been following my blog for a while, you know I have a soft spot for Sri Lanka. And Hiriketiya is one of the main reasons why! This little beach town in the south has quickly become a favorite for digital nomads and travelers alike.
I ended up spending way more time in Hiriketiya than I ever planned, but that’s just how it goes sometimes. Hiriketiya offers quite a change of pace compared to other digital nomad destinations. It’s a tiny beach town on Sri Lanka’s south coast, perfect for that laid-back beach vibe.
With a bunch of great cafes to work at, two co-living spaces, good restaurants, and amazing surf, it’s hard not to fall in love with this place. Plus, it’s super affordable, so it really has everything you could want. If you’re looking to slow down and enjoy the beach life, Hiriketiya is the place to be.
Co-working Spaces for Digital Nomads
Verse Collective
Verse Collective is definitely the go-to co-living and coworking space in Hiriketiya. Whether you’re staying for a short visit or planning a longer stay, it’s perfect for digital nomads like us. The workspace? Modern and spacious, bathed in natural light with those ergonomic chairs we all love.
The community here is super active and welcoming. You’ll instantly feel at home, meeting fellow travelers and like-minded folks. They host some really cool events too—think yoga classes, movie nights, networking events, and BBQs.
And even if you’re not staying at their place, it’s an awesome spot to hunker down and get some work done. They’ve got a cafe and restaurant, plus a fantastic outdoor area right on the beach.
Click here for more information
Accommodation for Digital Nomads
Salt House
Salt House isn’t really a co-living space; it’s where I spent my entire stay in Hiriketiya, and trust me, it doesn’t get better than this. Salt House is all about yoga, which I think is a perfect balance when you’re also trying to get some work done.
Their rooms are super cozy and modern, and they have a yoga shala upstairs with cool views of the jungle. Plus, there’s this cute little restaurant with a pool in their yard. It’s a fantastic spot to stay, and it’s also a great place to meet people.
Click here for more information
If you want to know more about Hiriketiya then check out my guide on ‘Where to stay in Hiriketiya‘
Cape Town, South Africa
Cost of Living: 7/10
Internet connectivity: 5/10
Community: 9/10
Safety: 5/10
Work-life balance: 9/10
Another spot that’s been pretty popular among expats from all over the world has recently become one of the hottest digital nomad destinations in the past two years. I’ve found myself returning to Cape Town time and again to escape the chilly American and European winters, and I have to admit, I was pretty torn about adding Cape Town to this list.
The thing about Cape Town is that the highs are sky-high, but the lows can be quite challenging. Anyone who’s been there knows what I mean. The city itself is breathtakingly beautiful—stunning beaches, a vibrant nightlife, mouth-watering food, and nature that’s simply out of this world.
However, there’s the downside of load shedding (power cuts) for up to 6 hours a day, worsening traffic, and rising crime rates, sadly due to poverty and income inequality.
But despite these issues, I can’t help but highly recommend Cape Town as a digital nomad haven. The community here is fantastic, with tons of events, workshops, and meetups for networking and making new connections.
Co-working Spaces & Cafes for Digital Nomads
Roamwork
My go-to spot in Cape Town when I need a proper office setup and some focused work time is Roamwork. Roamwork is a membership-based co-working space right in the city center.
The place is super modern and always buzzing with activity, which I absolutely love. I’ve actually met quite a few people there, and that’s always a huge plus for me.
A day pass will set you back around $15, and a weekly pass costs $50, which I think is super fair for what you get in return.
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Our Local
Cape Town has so many amazing cafes and coffee shops perfect for working that I can’t even list them all here. So, let me tell you about my absolute favorite – Our Local. This place is a huge warehouse filled with quirky vintage items, plants galore, and plenty of tables and chairs tucked in between. It’s a whole vibe, and I promise you’ll love it. Plus, they’re totally cool with you working there for a few hours.
Their food is super tasty, with the avocado toast and eggs benny being absolutely delicious, and they make a banging flat white. Other great coffee spots to get some work done are Rosetta, The Ladder, Pauline’s, and Bootlegger!
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Accommodation for Digital Nomads
Cape Coliving
A super little and more family-style coliving space in Cape Town is this spot. What’s great about it is that you’ll get to meet only a handful of other digital nomads, so you can really get to know each other and make some lasting connections.
The house itself is beautiful – super stylish with lots of spaces to work, chill or socialize. The rooms are cozy and clean, and the kitchen is fully equipped for those who like to cook. You can choose from private rooms or shared rooms, depending on your budget.
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Ideas Cartel
A bit on the fancier side, but totally worth it—Ideas Cartel offers a luxurious and comfy coliving experience. The place is beautifully designed, flooded with natural light, and boasts stunning city views.
Each room has its own unique style and is fully equipped with everything you might need. I absolutely loved it, even if it was just for a few weeks because it was a tad pricier. But living in one of the master suites felt so cool! With plenty of events, meetups, and co-working spaces, it’s also a fantastic opportunity to connect with others.
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Bali, Indonesia
Cost of Living: 4/10
Internet connectivity: 8/10
Community: 9/10
Safety: 8/10
Work-life balance: 8/10
It’s no surprise that Bali made this list—it’s the top destination for digital nomads, and for good reason. Bali aims to be the ultimate hub for folks like us, and they’ve even introduced a dedicated digital nomad visa to make moving there a breeze, even if just for a temporary stay.
I visited Bali about 5 years ago in 2019 and absolutely loved it. Canggu was super chill and hipster, with not too many people around. The accommodation and cost of living were super affordable. However, I’ve seen some recent videos and it looks like Bali has become quite packed and overrun. But hey, you should totally check it out and decide for yourself!
Co-working Spaces for Digital Nomads
Tropical Nomad
Without a doubt, one of the best coworking spaces in southeast Asia is Tropical Nomad. Located in the heart of Canggu, Bali, this coworking space offers a relaxed and productive atmosphere for digital nomads. It offers both indoor and outdoor workspaces with high-speed internet and an active community to connect with. They also have regular events and workshops to help you grow your skills as a remote worker.
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B Work
I’ve been here just once, but it was an amazing spot! If I had more time, I would have come more often for sure. B Work is super modern, perfect for getting some work done. The lower level is a café, which is great for everyone who loves that kind of atmosphere. They serve fantastic coffee, breakfast, and lunch. The other levels are more of a proper coworking style with meeting rooms, Zoom rooms, private offices, and a super cool terrace.
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Accommodation for Digital Nomads
Coworksurf
Bali has about a million different coworking and coliving spaces, but I really loved Coworksurf. It’s a bit more lowkey and tucked further inland, but it definitely has a chill hostel vibe and is super social. It doesn’t feel as polished and fancy as many of the other spots—maybe that’s why I liked it so much.
Plus, they do surf trips every day and offer lessons. So, if you’re looking to improve your surfing or even just get started while still working, this is definitely your go-to spot.
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Best Places to Live as a Digital Nomad – Frequently Asked Questions
What is the safest city for Digital Nomads?
I honestly felt super safe in Bali (I know it’s an island and not a city), but I also really enjoyed Sri Lanka in general in terms of safety. However, if you’re looking to stay in a larger city, then out of all the above, I would say that Lisbon is probably your best bet!
Can I work remotely from anywhere in the world?
Yes, with the rise of technology and remote work opportunities, it is possible to work from almost anywhere in the world as a digital nomad. However, it’s important to research visa requirements and internet connectivity before choosing a destination to ensure a smooth working experience.
Where do I get the best internet speed?
From my experience, Southeast Asia surprisingly has really fast internet. I’ve been in Bali and Thailand mostly, but countries like Vietnam, Malaysia, and Cambodia are also known for their fast internet speeds. It’s important to do your own research, though, as internet connectivity can vary from city to city within each country.
Best Places to Live as a Digital Nomad – Final Words
Alright, here are my favorite and, honestly, the best places to live as a digital nomad. I hope this post has given you some inspiration for your next remote work adventure and helped narrow down your options.
Remember, no matter where you choose to go, do your research beforehand on visa requirements, internet connectivity, cost of living, and safety. And don’t forget to immerse yourself in the local culture and enjoy all that each destination has to offer! Cheers to a life of freedom and flexibility as a digital nomad. Happy travels!
