Best Cities for Remote Workers

The rise of remote work has given professionals the unprecedented freedom to live and work from anywhere in the world. But with so many options, how do you choose the best place to set up your mobile office? The ideal city for a digital nomad offers a winning combination of affordability, reliable internet, a vibrant community, and a great quality of life.

From bustling European capitals to laid-back beach towns in Southeast Asia, there are cities to suit every taste and budget. This guide highlights some of the best destinations for remote workers, based on factors like cost of living, internet speed, safety, and community.

1. Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon has become a major hub for digital nomads, and it's easy to see why. The city offers a perfect blend of old-world charm and modern amenities.

Why it's great: Lisbon boasts a sunny climate, a beautiful coastline, and a thriving tech scene. The city is very walkable, with a vibrant food and nightlife scene. Portugal's digital nomad visa makes it relatively easy to stay long-term.
Cost of Living: Moderate. It's more affordable than many other Western European capitals, but prices have been rising due to its popularity.
Internet: Generally fast and reliable, with many cafes and co-working spaces.

2. Chiang Mai, Thailand

For decades, Chiang Mai has been a legendary destination for digital nomads, especially those on a budget.

Why it's great: The cost of living is incredibly low, allowing you to live very comfortably for a fraction of what it would cost in a Western city. It has a massive and welcoming community of remote workers, a fantastic food scene, and a relaxed, spiritual vibe.
Cost of Living: Very low.
Internet: Excellent. The city is well-equipped with fast Wi-Fi in cafes, co-working spaces, and apartments.

3. Mexico City, Mexico

Mexico City has exploded in popularity with remote workers in recent years. It's a massive, vibrant metropolis with endless things to see and do.

Why it's great: The city has a world-class culinary scene, a rich history, and a thriving creative energy. The cost of living is very reasonable for a city of its size, and it's in a similar time zone to the United States, making it convenient for those working with US-based clients.
Cost of Living: Low to moderate.
Internet: Generally good, especially in popular nomad neighborhoods like Condesa and Roma.

4. Budapest, Hungary

Known as the "Pearl of the Danube," Budapest offers stunning architecture, a rich history, and a lively nightlife.

Why it's great: It's one of the most beautiful and affordable capitals in Europe. The city is well-connected by public transport, and its "ruin bars" are a unique cultural experience. Hungary's "White Card" is a digital nomad visa designed for remote workers.
Cost of Living: Low for a European capital.
Internet: Fast and reliable.

5. Medellín, Colombia

Once known for its dangerous past, Medellín has undergone a remarkable transformation and is now a safe, innovative, and popular destination for digital nomads.

Why it's great: The "City of Eternal Spring" boasts a perfect year-round climate. It's set in a beautiful valley, has a modern public transport system, and a friendly, welcoming culture. The cost of living is very low.
Cost of Living: Very low.
Internet: Good and constantly improving, with a growing number of co-working spaces.

6. Bali, Indonesia

The island of Bali has long been a magnet for those seeking a spiritual and wellness-focused lifestyle. It's a paradise for remote workers who love yoga, surfing, and healthy food.

Why it's great: Stunning natural beauty, from beaches to rice paddies. A huge and active community of digital nomads and entrepreneurs. A focus on wellness and spirituality.
Cost of Living: Very low, although it can be more expensive in tourist-heavy areas like Canggu.
Internet: Can be hit-or-miss depending on your location, but it has improved significantly in recent years. Co-working spaces generally have reliable connections.

7. Buenos Aires, Argentina

Known for its European-style architecture, passionate tango culture, and incredible steak, Buenos Aires is a captivating city for remote workers.

Why it's great: It's a city with a rich cultural life and a very low cost of living for foreigners, especially if you're earning in a strong currency like dollars or euros.
Cost of Living: Very low.
Internet: Generally good, particularly in the central neighborhoods.

FAQs

How do I choose the right city for me? Think about your priorities. Is cost of living your main concern? Or do you value a strong community and nightlife? Do you prefer a big city or a smaller town? Make a list of what's important to you and research cities that match your criteria.

Is it safe to be a digital nomad? Like anywhere, it's important to be aware of your surroundings. Research the safety of the neighborhoods you're considering and take standard precautions, like not flashing expensive electronics in public. Most popular digital nomad destinations are generally safe.

How do I find accommodation? Airbnb is a popular option for short to medium-term stays. For longer stays, you can often find better deals by looking for local apartment listings on Facebook groups or local real estate websites once you arrive in a city. Co-living spaces are also a great option, as they combine accommodation with a built-in community.

Internal Links