Top Countries for Digital Nomads to Settle in 2025

Digital Nomads popularity is growing exponentially every year where more destinations around the world are catering remote workers with coworking spaces, reliable internet, and a favourable cost of living. Choosing best countries for digital nomads is the key challenge for majority of remote workers. If you are planning to move from anywhere as digital nomad then you have to decide on various factors including cost of living, convenience, culture and growth opportunities. In 2025, digital nomads have an impressive array of options that balance work, play, and affordability. Here are the top cities for digital nomads in 2025, with insights on expenses, lifestyle benefits, and potential downsides

1. Bali, Indonesia

• Average Monthly Expense: $1,200 – $2,000
• Living Expenses: Rent is generally affordable, with furnished apartments available from $400/month. Food, transportation, and coworking memberships are also reasonably priced.

Benefits: Bali has long been a favorite among digital nomads. Known for its affordable lifestyle, Bali boasts vibrant coworking spaces, serene beach locations, and a large community of remote workers. Many restaurants, cafes, and coworking spots offer reliable Wi-Fi and beautiful work environments. In 2025, new initiatives continue to support a remote work-friendly ecosystem. With warm weather and lush landscapes, it’s easy to balance work with leisure.
Downsides: Bali’s popularity means certain areas, like Canggu and Ubud, can feel overcrowded. Internet reliability can be an issue in some rural areas, and visa rules can be complex for long-term stays. Bali’s infrastructure, particularly roads, can also struggle with congestion.

2. Medellín, Colombia

• Average Monthly Expense: $1,000 – $1,500
• Living Expenses: Renting an apartment costs around $400-$800 per month. Groceries and dining are affordable, and public transport is inexpensive.

Benefits: Medellín is known for its year-round spring-like climate, affordable cost of living, and high-quality coworking spaces. The city has transformed into a major hub for digital nomads, with a lively atmosphere, great food, and a welcoming community. Its infrastructure supports reliable Wi-Fi, especially in coworking areas. Colombia has introduced digital nomad visas, making it easier for remote workers to stay longer.
Downsides: While Medellín has improved significantly in terms of safety, some areas still require caution. Power outages can be an occasional issue, and air quality in the city center may be a concern for those sensitive to pollution.

3. Chiang Mai, Thailand

• Average Monthly Expense: $800 – $1,500
• Living Expenses: Housing can be found as low as $300 per month, with food and transport costs being similarly affordable.

Benefits: Chiang Mai offers one of the most affordable living costs for digital nomads. Its large expat community, low cost of living, and reliable infrastructure make it an ideal base for remote workers. Chiang Mai has great cafes, coworking spaces, and a robust nomad scene. For those interested in exploring, the city is close to some of Thailand’s beautiful mountains and cultural landmarks.
Downsides: Chiang Mai’s air quality drops during the “burning season” (March to April) when agricultural practices impact air quality. During this time, many nomads temporarily relocate elsewhere. The city’s nightlife is relatively low-key compared to Bangkok, which might not suit those seeking a more active social scene.

4. Lisbon, Portugal

• Average Monthly Expense: $2,000 – $2,500
• Living Expenses: Rent in Lisbon has risen but is still competitive at around $1,000/month. Groceries, dining, and transportation costs are moderate.

Benefits: Lisbon is a beautiful and vibrant city that offers both work-life balance and a rich cultural experience. As one of Europe’s top digital nomad destinations, it boasts excellent coworking spaces, a strong internet connection, and access to beautiful beaches and parks. Lisbon’s climate is mild, with warm summers and cool but not freezing winters, making it a comfortable place year-round. The Portuguese government offers a digital nomad visa for long-term stays, which is a huge plus.
Downsides: Lisbon’s popularity has led to an increase in the cost of living, particularly in housing. Finding affordable rent within the city center can be challenging. Additionally, Lisbon has a laid-back pace that might not appeal to those who prefer a more fast-paced environment.

5. Tbilisi, Georgia

• Average Monthly Expense: $800 – $1,200
• Living Expenses: Rent in Tbilisi can be as low as $300/month, with food, transportation, and coworking spaces also very affordable.

Benefits: Tbilisi is an emerging hotspot for digital nomads, thanks to its low cost of living and welcoming policies. Georgia allows many nationals to stay visa-free for up to a year, making it ideal for long-term digital nomads. Tbilisi’s old-world charm, vibrant food scene, and reliable internet make it a delightful place to work. The city has a unique blend of European and Asian cultural influences, giving it a distinct atmosphere.
Downsides: Infrastructure in Tbilisi is still developing, and some amenities may not meet Western standards. Winters can be quite cold, and the public transport system is not as extensive as in other European cities.

6. Mexico City, Mexico

• Average Monthly Expense: $1,500 – $2,500
• Living Expenses: Rent varies from $500 to $1,000/month, while groceries, dining, and coworking space are quite reasonable.

Benefits: Mexico City offers a vibrant lifestyle with a mix of culture, art, and excellent food. For digital nomads, the city has many coworking spaces, good Wi-Fi, and a growing community of remote workers. It’s centrally located, making travel to other parts of North and South America easy. The Mexican government has introduced a Temporary Resident Visa that allows remote workers to stay for extended periods.
Downsides: Mexico City’s air quality can be an issue, especially during winter. Traffic congestion is significant, and safety remains a concern in certain neighborhoods. Finding affordable housing in popular areas can also be challenging due to high demand.

7. Budapest, Hungary

• Average Monthly Expense: $1,500 – $2,200
• Living Expenses: Rent in Budapest can cost around $700/month, with affordable groceries and dining options.

Benefits: Budapest has a relatively low cost of living for a European capital and is known for its beautiful architecture, scenic Danube river views, and thermal baths. The city has a solid digital infrastructure, reliable Wi-Fi, and a vibrant expat community. Hungary introduced a “white card” in recent years for remote workers, making it easier for non-EU nationals to work and live here.
Downsides: Winters in Budapest can be chilly, and certain areas are crowded with tourists. Language can be a barrier, as English is not as widely spoken outside tourist areas. Housing prices have risen, though they remain more affordable than many Western European cities.

8. Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

• Average Monthly Expense: $1,000 – $1,500
• Living Expenses: Apartments can be rented for around $400/month. Food and public transportation are very inexpensive.

Benefits: Ho Chi Minh City offers an incredibly affordable lifestyle, warm weather, and a vibrant community of expats and digital nomads. The city has excellent street food, lively markets, and a growing number of coworking spaces. Vietnam’s new remote work policies make it easier for digital nomads to settle here, and the warm climate is a bonus for those who prefer tropical weather.
Downsides: The city’s fast-paced lifestyle and traffic congestion may not be suitable for everyone. Air quality can be an issue, especially in the dry season. Internet speeds are generally good, but certain regions can face connectivity issues, especially during peak times.

Conclusion
Digital nomads in 2025 have more choices than ever, with destinations ranging from affordable Southeast Asian hubs to vibrant European cities. Each location has unique benefits and challenges, so selecting a destination will largely depend on your priorities—whether it’s budget, culture, climate, or lifestyle. Wherever you choose to work remotely, the world is open and more connected than ever, making it an exciting time to be a digital nomad.