Let’s dive into the best country for digital nomads in 2024.
It’s 2024, and working remotely, especially from another country, has never been this easy. Definitely, it is a lifestyle that requires a lot of dedication and hard work but is worth it.
Being a digital nomad is an exciting lifestyle for most people.
However, it is one of those decisions that you have to evaluate critically, especially when it comes to choosing a country to relocate to, be it temporarily or long-term.
While an increasing number of countries are becoming friendlier to remote workers and digital nomads in terms of regulations, infrastructure, and digital nomad visas, some of them are far ahead when it comes to providing the best environment for digital nomads.
We will try to highlight some of these countries in our list, but we will narrow it down to only the top 16.
To help you narrow down the selection, we will highlight key strengths of each destination.
But before we dive into the best countries for digital nomads, it is good to have a good idea of what to look for in a digital nomad destination.
What to Look for in the Best Country for Digital Nomads
While everyone’s preferences differ, there are universal factors that attract most digital nomads to a destination. Here are some of them:
- Stable internet: Living a laptop lifestyle cannot be successful without a strong internet. In fact, having a great laptop is not as important as having strong WiFi.
- Friendly weather: Most digital nomads relocate from their countries due to harsh weather. So, you need to understand the weather conditions in your desired country. Ideally, you need somewhere that is warm throughout the year.
- Great digital nomad community: While digital connections are important, social connections are even more crucial.
As you may already know, remote working can be lonely at times. It is even worse when you are in a foreign country. But the good thing is that some digital nomad hotspots have awesome communities of remote workers that have built over time.
A good example is Tribal Bali, a digital nomad hub that offers both digital and social connections to digital nomads across Bali. - Good work-life balance: Digital nomadism is not all about working. It also involves adventure and fun activities. You need somewhere that has excellent working stations as well as natural beauty and is adventure-friendly.
- Affordability: One of the advantages of being a digital nomad is being able to sustain your lifestyle at a fraction of what you would spend in your home country. So, cost of living plays a big role in selecting your best country for digital nomads.
Other factors to consider are digital nomad visa availability, safety index, income requirements for visa applications, tourism popularity, and taxation.
The Best Countries for Digital Nomads
1. Spain
Spain is the best country for digital nomads because of many factors. The country offers a unique fusion of an affordable cost of living, a vibrant culture, and a thriving digital landscape.
Most digital nomads also love this southern European country because of its historical streets of Spanish cities, the sun-drenched beaches of the Mediterranean, its cuisine, and its friendly digital nomad visa.
2. Portugal
Portugal is one of the best destinations for expats, thanks to its friendly digital nomad visa, affordable cost of living, welcoming locals, beautiful scenery, and sparkling beaches.
Some people also love Portugal’s laid-back lifestyle and its diverse cuisine.
Portugal’s geography is varied, meaning that it has something for everyone to enjoy, ranging from forests to mountains to beaches.
Also, the fact that it is not a huge country means that you can explore all these without digging too much in your pocket.
3. Greece
Greece is the best country for digital nomads because of its eye-catching landscape, historical architecture, rich culture, safe environment, and, more importantly, affordable cost of living.
This southern European gem is probably the most affordable destination spot for digital nomads in the whole of Europe. What’s more, major cities like Thessaloniki and Athens enjoy over 90% 5G coverage.
Another factor that makes it attractive to digital nomads is its renewable, one-year digital nomad visa.
This visa can allow you to live in the country for up to five years when renewed. After that, you are eligible for permanent residency.
4. Mexico
Mexico is one of the best destinations for digital nomads for many reasons.
First, the country borders the US, making it a perfect choice for US digital nomads looking for an interesting location close to home. Secondly, the cost of living in Mexico is far cheaper than in the US.
In fact, rental costs in some regions are 71% lower than the US average. Besides this, Mexico City has some great coworking spaces for digital nomads. Also, its average broadband speed is about 46 Mbps.
5. Romania
Romania is ranked among the top countries for digital nomads.
This eastern European nation offers an affordable cost of living. In fact, it is 50% cheaper than in Western European countries. Apart from this, it has a sound digital infrastructure to support digital nomadism.
6. Italy
Like its southern European counterparts, Italy also has a lot to offer remote workers wishing to live in the country.
Italy has a cultural heritage spanning millennia, so it is an interesting destination for those seeking a lifestyle enriched by history, art, and culinary delights.
Cities like Florence, Venice, and Rome offer a unique blend of modern amenities and ancient charm, creating a perfect environment for work and adventure.
7. Indonesia
Indonesia takes the top 10 spot in every digital nomad destination list. There is nothing more interesting to nature lovers than living their best life in Bali. This place is synonymous with remote working and digital nomadism, and it is for a good reason.
This tropical paradise is full of interesting cafes with fast-speed WiFi, luxury villas at affordable prices, gorgeous beaches and lush jungles, and a culture that supports professional and personal development.
8. Czech Republic
The Czech Republic is the best country for digital nomads looking to explore the rich diversity of central European traditions.
Besides the historic charm, remote workers will also enjoy the Czech Republic’s modern connectivity as well as its bohemian atmosphere.
9. Costa Rica
Costa Rica is the best country for digital nomads because of its biodiversity, sandy shores, great weather, lower cost of living, beach lifestyle, and welcoming locals.
But it is more than just a vacation spot; it also offers tax-free living to digital nomads who want to live in the country.
There are also a multitude of decent coworking spaces and hostels across major digital nomad hostorps in the country. Some coworking spots, like Selina, are fully equipped with workstations with high-speed internet.
Also Read: The Only Costa Rica Travel Guide You Need in 2024
10. Hungary
While Hungary is not the most popular destination within the digital nomad space, it is a truly hidden gem that offers a unique blend of affordability, history, and cultural diversity.
Its central location makes the country a suitable spot for those wishing to live in an east-meets-west environment.
11. Bulgaria
We also believe that Bulgaria is the best country for digital nomads because of its burgeoning tech scene and the medieval architecture of its historic sites.
On top of this, the country will appeal to those digital nomads looking for an affordable destination.
12. Malta
This tiny island offers the best environment for remote workers thanks to its 5G coverage and over 400 public WiFi spots.
And the best thing is that you can explore the rest of Europe while in the country.
13. Thailand
For those looking to relocate to Asia, Thailand is another perfect spot for digital nomads.
The country has long been among the best tourist destinations, but now it is starting out as a favorite spot for digital nomads.
14. Brazil
Brazil stands out in many areas, ranging from its lively festivals to its beautiful beaches. It also has some of the most vibrant cities in South America.
In addition to this, its tech scene is solid. And the best of it all is that you will get the opportunity to sample what the Amazon has to offer, given that it is one of the most biodiverse regions of the planet.
15. Georgia
This is another beautiful destination for digital nomads. We say so because the country has a lot to offer, ranging from well-developed infrastructure for digital nomadism to plenty of beautiful places to explore.
We love the fact that it brings out the best of the Eastern European vibe, especially when it comes to cuisine. And more importantly, the country is much cheaper than most western nations.
16. Croatia
This southern European country has done a lot to improve its digital landscape.
Beside the fact that it offers an attractive digital nomad visa to prospective remote employees and entrepreneurs, it also has dedicated zones for digital nomads. A good example is a digital nomad village in Zadar.
Final Thoughts
The life of a digital nomad is magnificent but can also be exhausting, especially if you fail to plan properly. It is even worse if you choose the wrong destination.
So, before you embark on your exploration journey, it is important to consider the infrastructure, weather, presence of the digital nomad community, and the cost of living of a potential destination.
It is also important to understand the kinds of activities you like as well as the cultures you wish to explore. Some people like Asia, while others like Europe.
The good thing is that our list offers diversity in terms of location and experience. It is up to you to choose what fits your lifestyle and preferences.
To sum it up, just choose where you feel at home and can access some of the best facilities for digital nomads.
Also Read:
- How to Become a Digital Nomad in 2024 (Pros, Cons, and Common Jobs)
- 12 Best Digital Nomad Coliving Spaces Worldwide for Remote Working We’ve Visited and Love
