The digital nomad lifestyle has exploded in popularity over the last few years. And for good reason. Working from your laptop while exploring new countries and cultures is an incredible way to live. But choosing the right destination can make or break your experience.
I’ve been working online for over a decade, spending time in several countries while running my online businesses. What I’ve learned is that the perfect digital nomad destination depends on your specific needs – particularly your budget and internet requirements.
In this guide, I’ll break down the best countries for digital nomads based on cost of living, internet reliability, visa options, and overall quality of life. No fluff, just practical information to help you make your next move.
What Makes a Country Good for Digital Nomads?
Before diving into specific countries, let’s clarify what makes a destination “digital nomad friendly”:
- Cost of living – How far your money stretches
- Internet quality – Speed, reliability and availability
- Visa situation – How easy it is to stay legally
- Safety – Both personal safety and political stability
- Quality of life – Weather, healthcare, food, activities
- Community – Presence of other digital nomads
Your priorities might differ based on your work, budget, and personal preferences. A software developer needing ultra-fast internet might choose differently than a content writer who prioritizes low costs and beautiful surroundings.
Cheapest Countries for Digital Nomads
If you’re bootstrapping a business or simply want to maximize your savings, these countries offer exceptional value while still providing the necessities for remote work.
Thailand
Thailand remains the classic digital nomad destination for good reason. In cities like Chiang Mai, you can live comfortably on $1,000-1,500 per month including accommodation, food, and coworking.
The internet is generally reliable in major cities and tourist areas, with speeds averaging 100-200 Mbps in coworking spaces. The country has a well-established nomad community, particularly in Chiang Mai, Bangkok, and islands like Koh Phangan.
The main drawback is the visa situation. Most visitors get 30-60 days on arrival, requiring regular border runs or more complex visa applications for longer stays. However, Thailand has recently introduced a 10-year Long-Term Resident Visa with a steep income requirement of $80,000 over the past two years.
Vietnam
Vietnam offers exceptional value with monthly expenses ranging from $700-1,200 in cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. The food is incredible and costs just $1-3 per meal at local spots.
Internet speeds are surprisingly good, often exceeding 100 Mbps in urban areas and coworking spaces. The coffee culture is strong, with countless cafes where you can work for hours for the price of a $1-2 coffee.
The standard tourist visa lasts 30 days, but extensions are possible. Vietnam has been discussing digital nomad visas but hasn’t implemented one yet. The growing expat communities in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang make it easy to connect with other remote workers.
Indonesia (Bali)
Bali has become synonymous with the digital nomad lifestyle. While prices have increased in popular areas like Canggu, you can still live well for $1,200-1,800 per month.
Internet quality varies significantly. Coworking spaces offer reliable connections (50-100 Mbps), but villa WiFi can be spotty. Many nomads use local SIM cards as backup.
Indonesia now offers a “Second Home Visa” valid for 5-10 years, but it requires a hefty bank deposit of approximately $130,000. Most nomads still use tourist visas with extensions or the new “digital nomad visa” which allows stays of up to 6 months.
The massive digital nomad community means you’ll never lack for networking opportunities, events, or like-minded friends.
Mexico
Mexico offers an excellent balance of affordability and convenience, especially for North Americans. In cities like Mexico City, Playa del Carmen, and Oaxaca, you can live well on $1,200-1,800 monthly.
Internet speeds are generally good in urban areas, averaging 30-50 Mbps, with higher speeds available in coworking spaces. The time zone alignment with the US makes it perfect for those working with North American clients or companies.
The standard tourist visa allows stays of up to 180 days, though there have been reports of immigration officials giving shorter periods recently. Mexico also offers temporary resident visas for those with sufficient income.
Safety concerns exist in some regions, but popular digital nomad hubs are generally secure with basic precautions.
Best Value-for-Money Countries for Digital Nomads
These countries cost a bit more than the budget options but offer significant improvements in infrastructure, convenience, or quality of life.
Portugal
Portugal has become Europe’s digital nomad hotspot. While not as cheap as Southeast Asia, cities like Lisbon and Porto offer excellent value by European standards, with monthly costs around $1,800-2,500.
Internet infrastructure is excellent, with fiber connections widely available and speeds regularly exceeding 100 Mbps. Portugal now offers a dedicated Digital Nomad Visa for non-EU citizens, allowing stays of up to one year with the possibility of renewal.
The combination of beautiful cities, beaches, safety, and a growing international community makes Portugal hard to beat for those with a mid-range budget.
Colombia
Colombia offers a fantastic combination of affordability and modern amenities. In Medellín (the most popular nomad destination), you can live well for $1,200-1,800 per month.
Internet speeds are solid in major cities, typically 30-50 Mbps. The country recently introduced a digital nomad visa allowing stays of up to two years, with relatively straightforward requirements including proof of income of approximately $900/month.
The eternal spring climate in Medellín, vibrant culture, and growing expat community make Colombia an increasingly popular choice.
Malaysia
Malaysia offers excellent value with better infrastructure than many of its Southeast Asian neighbors. In Kuala Lumpur, expect monthly expenses of $1,200-1,800.
Internet is fast and reliable, with speeds commonly exceeding 100 Mbps. Malaysia has introduced the DE Rantau Nomad Pass, allowing stays of up to 12 months with the possibility of renewal.
The country’s multicultural environment, excellent food scene, and modern amenities make it an underrated gem for digital nomads.
Safest Countries for Digital Nomads
Safety is a top priority for many nomads, especially solo travelers and women. These countries consistently rank among the safest while still offering good value.
Japan
Japan ranks among the safest countries globally, with extremely low crime rates even in major cities like Tokyo and Osaka. The country recently introduced a digital nomad visa allowing stays of up to 6 months for those earning at least $68,000 annually.
While not cheap (expect monthly costs of $2,500-3,500), Japan offers unparalleled infrastructure, lightning-fast internet, and an incredible cultural experience.
Singapore
Singapore is exceptionally safe with virtually no street crime. The city-state offers world-class infrastructure and internet speeds regularly exceeding 500 Mbps.
The high cost of living ($3,000-4,000 monthly) is the main drawback, but for those with good incomes, Singapore provides an excellent base in Asia. The country offers various work visas but doesn’t have a specific digital nomad visa yet.
New Zealand
New Zealand combines safety, stunning natural beauty, and excellent quality of life. The country offers a Working Holiday Visa for citizens of many countries (age restrictions apply), making it accessible for younger nomads.
Living costs range from $2,000-3,000 monthly depending on location. Internet quality is good in urban areas but can be limited in more remote regions.
Best Countries for Digital Nomads with Fast Internet
If your work demands reliable, high-speed internet, these countries won’t disappoint.
South Korea
South Korea boasts some of the fastest internet speeds globally, with averages exceeding 200 Mbps and widespread fiber coverage. Seoul offers an exciting urban experience with excellent coworking options.
Living costs range from $1,800-2,500 monthly. While South Korea doesn’t have a specific digital nomad visa, various other visa options exist for longer stays.
Romania
Romania offers surprisingly fast internet (among the best in Europe) at very affordable prices. Cities like Bucharest and Cluj-Napoca have vibrant tech scenes and growing nomad communities.
Monthly expenses range from $1,200-1,800, making Romania one of Europe’s best values. EU citizens can stay indefinitely, while non-EU citizens typically get 90 days within any 180-day period.
Taiwan
Taiwan combines excellent internet infrastructure with reasonable costs and high safety levels. Taipei offers numerous coworking spaces and cafes with reliable connections.
Monthly costs range from $1,500-2,200. Taiwan has announced plans for a digital nomad visa but hasn’t implemented it yet. Most visitors receive 90-day visa-free stays.
Countries with Digital Nomad Visas
The number of countries offering specific digital nomad visas has exploded in recent years. Here are some of the most attractive options:
Estonia
Estonia pioneered the digital nomad visa concept. Their visa allows stays of up to one year and requires proof of stable income (minimum €3,504 per month). Estonia’s digital infrastructure is world-class, though the climate might not appeal to sun-seekers.
Croatia
Croatia’s digital nomad visa permits stays of up to one year (non-renewable immediately) with proof of income of at least €2,300 monthly. The country offers a perfect combination of beautiful coastlines, historic cities, and reasonable costs (€1,500-2,000 monthly).
Costa Rica
Costa Rica’s Rentista Visa functions effectively as a digital nomad visa, allowing stays of up to two years with renewals possible. Applicants must show income of at least $2,500 monthly. The country’s natural beauty, stable democracy, and commitment to sustainability make it attractive despite the somewhat higher costs for Central America ($1,800-2,500 monthly).
Digital Nomad Country Comparison Table
| Country | Monthly Budget (USD) | Internet Speed | Visa Options | Safety Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Thailand | $1,000-1,500 | Good (50-100 Mbps) | 30-60 days on arrival, extensions possible | Moderate |
| Vietnam | $700-1,200 | Good (50-100 Mbps) | 30 days on arrival, extensions possible | Moderate |
| Indonesia (Bali) | $1,200-1,800 | Variable (30-100 Mbps) | 30-60 days on arrival, digital nomad visa available | Moderate |
| Portugal | $1,800-2,500 | Excellent (100+ Mbps) | Digital Nomad Visa available | Very High |
| Colombia | $1,200-1,800 | Good (30-50 Mbps) | Digital Nomad Visa available | Moderate |
| Japan | $2,500-3,500 | Excellent (100+ Mbps) | Digital Nomad Visa available | Very High |
| Estonia | $2,000-2,800 | Excellent (100+ Mbps) | Digital Nomad Visa available | Very High |
| Costa Rica | $1,800-2,500 | Variable (20-50 Mbps) | Rentista Visa available | High |
How to Choose the Right Country for Your Digital Nomad Lifestyle
With so many options, how do you choose the right destination? Here’s my practical approach:
1. Be honest about your work requirements
If you need to be on video calls regularly or work with large files, prioritize countries with excellent internet infrastructure. Don’t convince yourself that “it will probably be fine” in a country known for spotty connections.
2. Calculate your actual budget
Many nomads underestimate their expenses. Create a realistic monthly budget including accommodation, food, transport, coworking, insurance, and entertainment. Add 20% as a buffer.
3. Consider time zones
If you need to sync with clients or colleagues in specific time zones, choose destinations that won’t force you to work at 3 AM.
4. Start with short-term stays
Before committing to a long-term visa, visit for a few weeks on a tourist visa to ensure the location matches your expectations.
5. Research visa requirements thoroughly
Immigration rules change frequently. Double-check official government websites or consult with immigration lawyers for the most current information.
My Personal Recommendations
After years of traveling and working remotely, here are my top recommendations for different types of digital nomads:
For beginners:
Start with Mexico or Portugal. Both offer good infrastructure, established nomad communities, and relatively straightforward visa situations. They’re “soft landings” into the digital nomad lifestyle.
For budget-conscious nomads:
Vietnam and Thailand remain unbeatable for value. You can live well on $1,000-1,500 monthly while enjoying excellent food, friendly locals, and decent internet.
For those seeking community:
Bali (Indonesia), Medellín (Colombia), and Lisbon (Portugal) have thriving digital nomad scenes with regular events, coworking spaces, and networking opportunities.
For families:
Portugal, Malaysia, and Costa Rica offer good international schools, healthcare, safety, and family-friendly environments.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
In my years as a digital nomad, I’ve seen people make these common mistakes:
- Choosing destinations based solely on Instagram appeal – That beautiful beach might have terrible internet
- Underestimating visa complexities – Many have had to leave countries unexpectedly due to visa issues
- Moving too frequently – Changing locations monthly leads to productivity drops and travel fatigue
- Not budgeting for emergencies – Medical issues or emergency flights home can be expensive
- Ignoring tax implications – Your tax obligations don’t disappear when you travel
Taking the Leap: Next Steps
If you’re ready to embrace the digital nomad lifestyle, here’s how to get started:
- Ensure your income is stable and location-independent
- Choose your first destination based on the criteria we’ve discussed
- Join online communities for that destination (Facebook groups, Discord servers, etc.)
- Book accommodation for at least your first week (Airbnb or a hotel)
- Arrange travel and health insurance that covers digital nomads
- Research coworking options at your destination
- Set up a system for managing finances across borders
Remember that the perfect digital nomad destination doesn’t exist. Each country has trade-offs between cost, convenience, climate, community, and other factors. The beauty of this lifestyle is that you can always move if a place isn’t working for you.
The digital nomad lifestyle isn’t always easy, but it offers unparalleled freedom and experiences that most people only dream about. Whether you’re looking to stretch your budget in Southeast Asia or enjoy European culture in Portugal, there’s a perfect destination waiting for you.
The most important step is the first one. Choose a destination, make a plan, and take action. Your office with a view is waiting.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best countries for digital nomads?
The best countries for digital nomads depend on your priorities. For affordability, consider Thailand, Vietnam, and Indonesia. For excellent infrastructure and safety, Portugal, Estonia, and Japan rank highly. For established nomad communities, Bali, Lisbon, and Medellín are top choices.
What are the safest countries for digital nomads?
The safest countries for digital nomads include Japan, Singapore, Portugal, New Zealand, and Estonia. These countries consistently rank high on global safety indexes with low crime rates, political stability, and good healthcare systems.
What countries allow digital nomads?
Many countries now offer specific digital nomad visas, including Estonia, Croatia, Portugal, Costa Rica, Mexico, Indonesia, and Japan. These visas typically require proof of stable income and allow stays from 6 months to 2 years, with some offering renewal options.
What are the cheapest countries for digital nomads?
The cheapest countries for digital nomads with reasonable infrastructure include Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia (outside of tourist hotspots), Malaysia, and parts of Mexico. In these countries, you can live comfortably on $1,000-1,500 per month including accommodation, food, and coworking.
How much money do I need to be a digital nomad?
The amount of money needed to be a digital nomad varies widely by destination. In Southeast Asia, $1,500 monthly provides a comfortable lifestyle. In Europe, budget at least $2,500 monthly. Beyond regular expenses, you should have an emergency fund of at least $3,000-5,000 for unexpected situations.
Can I be a digital nomad with a full-time job?
Yes, you can be a digital nomad with a full-time job if your employer allows remote work. Many companies now offer “work from anywhere” policies. Consider time zone differences and ensure you have reliable internet for meetings. Some companies may have country restrictions due to tax and legal considerations.
