Trending Digital Nomad Cities: Where to Go Now

March 1, 2025

Digital nomadism is booming, with millions of remote workers seeking cities that offer fast internet, affordable living, coworking spaces, and digital nomad visas. Here are six top destinations for digital nomads in 2025, each offering unique benefits:

  • Lisbon, Portugal: Great internet (175 Mbps), vibrant expat community, and affordable living (~$2,890/month).
  • Chiang Mai, Thailand: Budget-friendly (~$1,129/month), reliable internet, and thriving coworking culture.
  • Medellin, Colombia: Affordable (~$1,329/month), spring-like weather, and strong digital infrastructure.
  • Tbilisi, Georgia: Low costs (~$2,045/month), fast mobile internet (231 Mbps), and visa-free stays up to 1 year.
  • Bali, Indonesia: Tropical charm, coworking spaces, and affordable living (~$1,890/month).
  • Mexico City, Mexico: Affordable (~$1,808/month), fast internet (142 Mbps), and vibrant neighborhoods.

Quick Comparison

City Monthly Cost Internet Speed (Avg.) Key Features
Lisbon $2,890 175 Mbps Digital Nomad Visa, sunny weather
Chiang Mai $1,129 Reliable speeds Ultra-low costs, coworking spaces
Medellin $1,329 137 Mbps Mild weather, thriving expat scene
Tbilisi $2,045 231 Mbps (mobile) Low taxes, visa-free for 1 year
Bali $1,890 15 Mbps (mobile max) Tropical lifestyle, coworking hubs
Mexico City $1,808 142 Mbps Affordable, cultural hotspots

Each city caters to different needs - whether it’s affordability, community, or accessibility. Choose a destination based on your budget and priorities.

1. Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon has become a favorite spot for digital nomads in Europe, thanks to its mix of affordability and great living conditions.

The city boasts reliable internet speeds, with median download rates of 175.97 Mbps for fixed broadband and 166.26 Mbps for mobile networks . This dependable connectivity supports a growing coworking culture.

Monthly Cost Category Average Expense
Basic Living $1,276
Public Transport Pass $43
Internet Service $32–43
Coworking Day Pass $9–53
Groceries $106/week

Some standout coworking spaces include Avila Spaces (around $234 monthly for hot desks, with a new location at Parque das Nações), Idea Spaces ($128 monthly for hot desks), and LACS ($128 monthly for hot desks) .

"Young entrepreneurs and artists from around the world are currently congregating on [Lisbon's] charming, hilly streets and in its adorable bars"
– Lonely Planet

For remote workers, the D7 Digital Nomad Visa requires proof of a monthly income at least four times the Portuguese minimum wage (about $3,489) . This requirement has attracted a diverse international crowd, adding to Lisbon's lively expat community.

Lisbon sees about 300 sunny days a year . While housing costs have risen - apartment prices climbed 17% by December 2023 to nearly €21 per square meter (around $2.07 per square foot) - the city is still 30% cheaper than Paris and 50% cheaper than London . This mix of modern perks and old-world charm continues to draw digital nomads from all over.

Tips for Nomads: Use the Croissant app for coworking access (starting at $31 for 10 hours). Get a Passe Navegante for unlimited public transit. Look for housing in the suburbs to save money, and rely on Citymapper for navigating the city's transit system.

Lisbon’s combination of affordability, culture, and convenience makes it a standout choice for digital nomads, offering a lifestyle that's hard to beat.

2. Chiang Mai, Thailand

Chiang Mai is a top pick for remote workers, offering a mix of affordability and modern conveniences. It's a favorite among digital nomads looking to balance work and lifestyle without breaking the bank.

Monthly Expense Category Average Cost
City Center Apartment $315
Outside Center Apartment $206
Basic Living Expenses $470
Mobile Data $6

The city's low living costs make it ideal for those embracing a nomadic lifestyle. Coworking spaces are plentiful, catering to different needs and budgets:

  • Yellow Coworking Space ($167/month): Equipped with a YouTube room, sound-proof Skype booths, a garden, international power sockets, and even showers.
  • Punspace ($109/month): With three locations, its Tha Phae Gate branch offers 24/7 access, private Skype rooms, and shower facilities.

Food options are both delicious and affordable. Enjoy Thai street food like Pad Thai for just $1–$1.50 or grab a meal at a basic restaurant for $2.50–$4.50 .

The best time to visit is between November and February, with comfortable weather and events like Loi Krathong and Yi Peng. However, avoid February through May due to air quality concerns .

Getting around is easy, with many nomads opting for scooters. If you're planning to ride, consider taking a safety course to get a Thai motorcycle license . Internet access is reliable across most areas, making it easy to stay connected.

For those on a tighter budget, coworking spaces like Hub53 (starting at $5 per day) or HeartWork (workspace access with a drink purchase plus $2.30) are great options. Housing is also affordable, with ensuite rooms starting at $150 per month and one-bedroom apartments ranging from $350–$400 .

Chiang Mai's mix of low costs, dependable infrastructure, and a welcoming community continues to make it a favorite destination for digital nomads.

3. Medellin, Colombia

Medellin has become Colombia's top spot for digital nomads, drawing roughly 8,300 remote workers every month . Known for its mild, spring-like weather (68°F–77°F), the city strikes a balance between work and leisure .

Monthly Expense Category Average Cost
City Center Apartment $322
Utilities $62
Basic Living Expenses $800–$1,000
Mobile Data (5GB) $15

Medellin's affordability is just one aspect of its appeal. The city boasts a thriving coworking culture, particularly in neighborhoods like El Poblado and Laureles. Popular coworking spaces include:

  • NOI Coworking (El Poblado): Offers high-speed WiFi and ergonomic setups.
  • Selina Medellín & Cowork: An eight-floor facility featuring wellness spaces and diverse work areas.
  • Tinkko Coworking: Known for flexible hourly rates and stunning 15th-floor views.

For those who prefer working from cafes, Medellin doesn't disappoint. Cafes like Pergamino Cafe, Cafe Noir, and Semilla Cafe combine cozy seating with reliable WiFi, making them perfect for remote workers . The city's modern digital infrastructure supports these options, with internet speeds averaging 137 Mbps for downloads and 93 Mbps for uploads .

Each neighborhood offers something different. El Poblado is packed with modern conveniences and lively nightlife. Laureles provides a more laid-back, budget-friendly vibe, while Envigado offers a quieter, residential atmosphere .

Medellin is also well-suited for remote work thanks to its alignment with Eastern Standard Time, making it easy to collaborate with North American teams. Colombia's Digital Nomad Visa allows stays of up to two years, adding to the city's appeal. Getting around is simple and affordable, with Metro tickets costing about $1 and the system offering reliable transportation . While knowing basic Spanish is helpful, many businesses in popular areas cater to English speakers .

4. Tbilisi, Georgia

Tbilisi offers an appealing mix of affordability and modern conveniences, making it a great choice for digital nomads. Living costs here are around 64% lower than in New York , which is ideal for remote workers looking to stretch their budgets.

Monthly Expense Category Average Cost
One-bedroom Apartment $300–$700
Basic Living Expenses $500–$800
Coworking Membership $50–$150
Mobile Data (5GB) $3.60
Gym Membership $20–$40

The city has a thriving coworking scene. Terminal, one of the largest providers, offers over 9,000 square meters of workspace for more than 1,100 people . Other popular spots include Impact Hub, known for its strong community vibe; D Block Workspace @Stamba, located in a chic city-center area; and VIBE, a budget-friendly option in the Saburtalo district.

Tbilisi’s internet infrastructure is impressive, with mobile internet speeds of 231.15 Mbps - ranking 18th worldwide - and fixed broadband speeds averaging 43.54 Mbps download and 45.24 Mbps upload . This pairs well with the city’s coworking options and diverse living areas.

The neighborhoods in Tbilisi cater to different tastes. For instance, Vake is upscale, Vera has a bohemian charm, Sololaki is rich in history, and Saburtalo is more residential. Transportation is easy on the wallet too, with metro tickets costing just $0.20–$0.50 and ride-hailing services like Bolt readily available.

Georgia’s visa policies are another big draw. Many nationalities can stay visa-free for up to 365 days, and the "Remotely From Georgia" program, launched in August 2020, adds even more flexibility for remote workers.

To stay connected during occasional power outages, consider getting a local SIM card. Also, online communities like the Facebook group "Expats in Georgia (country)" can help you network with other remote workers.

For entrepreneurs, Georgia’s tax system is a standout feature. Expat-owned businesses are taxed at just 1%, adding to the city’s appeal as a long-term base for digital nomads. With low living costs and favorable policies, Tbilisi is a destination worth considering.

sbb-itb-574d71c

5. Bali, Indonesia

Bali is a favorite among digital nomads, combining its tropical charm with coworking spaces and a manageable cost of living at around $1,275 per month .

Monthly Expense Cost Range
Villa/Apartment $500–$900
Utilities $50–$100
High-speed Internet $30–$50
Food & Groceries $200–$600
Scooter Rental $50–$70
Coworking Space $100–$200
Mobile Service $6

Bali's coworking spaces highlight its digital-friendly environment. For instance, Tropical Nomad in Canggu offers a 100-hour "Power" membership for $117 per month, including private offices and phone booths . Tribal Bali, on the other hand, uses a pay-as-you-go system and even provides pool access .

Internet speeds vary depending on the location. In tourist hotspots, WiFi speeds usually range from 512 kbps to 2 Mbps, while mobile internet can reach up to 15 Mbps. Telekomsel and XL are the main providers offering solid coverage across the island .

Canggu is particularly popular, with villas featuring rice field views and private pools starting at $650 per month. However, prices here are often higher due to the area's popularity among remote workers . Both Canggu and Ubud have the highest density of coworking spaces . Other tourist hubs like Seminyak, Kuta, and Legian also provide dependable internet, while more remote areas like Nusa Penida rely on specific venues like Penida Colada and Secret Penida Restaurant for connectivity .

For those seeking premium options, spaces like Outpost and Finns Rec Club combine work amenities with lifestyle perks, making them ideal for remote workers .

When it comes to daily expenses, Bali remains affordable. Meals at local warungs cost $1–$5, dining at Western-style restaurants ranges from $7–$20, and monthly groceries average between $200 and $300 . Similar to destinations like Lisbon and Chiang Mai, Bali offers a balance of low costs, good internet, and a thriving remote work culture.

6. Mexico City, Mexico

Mexico City has become a hotspot for digital nomads, drawing between 8,200 and 15,000 remote workers . The city offers an attractive cost of living, around 45.7% lower than in the United States .

Monthly Expense Cost Range
1-Bedroom Apartment (City Center) $600–$1,200
Utilities & Internet $80–$120
Food & Groceries $300–$500
Transportation $30–$50
Coworking Space $100–$300
Entertainment $200–$400

Mexico City’s internet speeds are a major draw, with average fixed broadband speeds of 142.34 Mbps download and 79.07 Mbps upload as of January 2025 . Popular neighborhoods like Roma Norte, Condesa, and Juárez offer reliable connectivity and plenty of coworking spaces. WeWork has 16 locations in the city, while boutique spaces like Público cater to creative professionals .

For those who prefer working from cafes, options like Coffeefy provide internet speeds of 200 Mbps download and 163 Mbps upload for just $2.50 per hour . Other spots, such as Tierra Garat and Cafebrería el Péndulo Roma, combine strong WiFi with a vibrant atmosphere .

Affordable living adds to Mexico City’s appeal. Many digital nomads comfortably manage a monthly budget of about $2,080 . Popular areas for remote workers include Condesa, Roma, Polanco, and Juárez, all known for their mix of culture, amenities, and accessibility.

Building a social network here is easy too. Active WhatsApp groups at places like Selina and U-Co Juarez, along with meetups organized through platforms like nomadlist.com, help newcomers connect with the community .

If video calls are part of your daily routine, check for fiber optic access in your area and consider upgrading your bandwidth . Even with these enhancements, Mexico City remains more affordable than 61% of major global cities .

City Cost and Feature Comparison

This section breaks down the financial and operational highlights of popular cities for digital nomads, offering a snapshot of living costs, workspace options, and internet reliability.

Monthly Living Costs

Living expenses vary significantly depending on the city:

City Total Monthly Cost Airbnb (Monthly) Restaurant Meal
Lisbon $2,890 $2,116 $14
Chiang Mai $1,129 $1,163 $2
Medellin $1,329 $814 $6
Tbilisi $2,045 $1,306 $11
Bali $1,890 $1,773 $3
Mexico City $1,808 $1,257 $2

Regional Cost Variations

Costs also follow regional patterns:

  • Southeast Asia (Chiang Mai, Bali): $800–$2,500 per month
  • Europe (Lisbon): $1,500–$5,000 per month
  • South America (Medellin): $800–$2,800 per month
  • North America (Mexico City): $2,000–$6,000 per month

Workspace Options

Workspace availability and pricing add another layer of comparison:

  • Hot Desk Memberships: $200–$350 per month
  • Dedicated Desks: About 20–30% higher than hot desk rates
  • Private Offices: Starting at $600 per month
  • Day Passes: $20–$50 per day

With 63% of fast-growing companies now embracing "work from anywhere" policies, coworking spaces in these cities are improving to meet demand .

Internet Reliability

For remote work, a minimum speed of 100 Mbps download and 10 Mbps upload is crucial . Many of these cities feature reliable fiber-optic networks in key areas, ensuring the high-speed internet needed for seamless remote work . These factors can help you decide which location aligns with your budget and work requirements.

Final Thoughts

Looking at the highlights from our city overviews, here are some key points to keep in mind as you plan your next destination. With digital nomad trends constantly shifting, each city caters to different work and lifestyle preferences.

For budget-conscious travelers: Cities like Chiang Mai in Southeast Asia offer affordable living, with monthly expenses ranging from $1,000 to $1,500. You’ll also find dependable internet and thriving coworking spaces .

For a European base: Lisbon stands out with living costs roughly 35% lower than Paris, making it a great option for those drawn to Europe .

For up-and-coming destinations: Tbilisi is gaining traction thanks to its low cost of living and its location bridging Europe and Asia.

These tips align with the cost and connectivity comparisons mentioned earlier, helping you choose a city that matches your needs.

Thinking about making the leap? Here’s how to get started:

  • Check visa options: Many countries now offer digital nomad visas. For example, Spain’s program costs $725 for a year, while Italy’s is available for $124 for a similar timeframe .
  • Connect with local communities: Join Facebook groups or WhatsApp chats before you arrive to plug into established networks .
  • Test coworking spaces: Buy day passes to try out different coworking spots before committing to a long-term membership .

With a 4.7% increase in U.S. participation in the digital nomad movement over the past year , remote work opportunities are growing. Whether you’re chasing affordability in Southeast Asia, cultural experiences in Latin America, or convenience in Europe, there’s no shortage of destinations to explore.

Related Blog Posts

Subscribe to our newsletter
submit
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.