Best Cities for Digital Nomads to Work in 2024

The digital nomad lifestyle has surged in popularity in recent years, and 2024 promises to offer even more incredible destinations for remote workers looking to blend adventure with productivity. With the rise of flexible work arrangements and the need for a better work-life balance, digital nomads are increasingly choosing cities that offer fast internet, affordable living, thriving expat communities, and access to diverse cultures.

In this article, we will highlight the best cities for digital nomads to work in 2024—places where you can work, explore, and thrive as a remote worker.

What Makes a City Ideal for Digital Nomads?

Before diving into the list, let’s explore the key factors that make a city attractive to digital nomads:

Fast Internet: Reliable internet is a must for remote work. Cities with strong digital infrastructure are vital for productivity.
Affordable Living: Digital nomads often seek cities where the cost of living is relatively low compared to major hubs like New York or London.
Co-working Spaces: Co-working spaces provide the perfect environment for networking and collaboration with other like-minded professionals.
Work-Life Balance: Cities that offer a healthy work-life balance, including access to outdoor activities, vibrant culture, and entertainment, make remote working more enjoyable.
Visa-Friendly: Many digital nomads prefer cities that offer specialized visas for remote workers, which makes the visa application process easier.

With these factors in mind, let’s take a closer look at the top digital nomad destinations in 2024.

1. Bali, Indonesia

Why It’s Great: Bali has long been a favorite among digital nomads, and in 2024, it continues to be a prime destination. With its breathtaking beaches, lush jungles, and vibrant culture, Bali offers an ideal setting for remote work. Cities like Canggu and Ubud are hubs for co-working spaces, where you can connect with other nomads and local entrepreneurs.

Fast Internet: Bali’s internet has improved drastically in recent years, and many co-working spaces offer high-speed connections.
Affordable Living: You can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle at a fraction of the cost of cities in the West, with affordable food, housing, and activities.
Visa: Indonesia offers a B211A tourist visa, which can be extended for up to six months, making it a great option for longer stays.

Perfect for: Creative professionals, entrepreneurs, and those who love yoga and meditation.

2. Lisbon, Portugal

Why It’s Great: Lisbon is quickly becoming one of the top digital nomad destinations in Europe. With its mild climate, rich history, and thriving tech scene, Lisbon offers a blend of old-world charm and modern infrastructure, making it an ideal city for remote workers.

Fast Internet: Lisbon is known for its excellent internet connectivity, particularly in co-working spaces and cafes.
Affordable Living: While Lisbon is more expensive than some cities on this list, it’s still much more affordable compared to other European capitals like Paris or London.
Visa: Portugal offers a D7 Visa, which allows non-EU citizens to live and work in the country, provided they have sufficient income from remote work.

Perfect for: Tech professionals, entrepreneurs, and those who love a mix of city life and beach relaxation.

3. Mexico City, Mexico

Why It’s Great: Mexico City has become a thriving hub for digital nomads in 2024, thanks to its vibrant culture, fast internet, and affordable cost of living. With an abundance of cafes, co-working spaces, and a huge expat community, it’s a perfect spot for remote workers.

Fast Internet: Mexico City boasts excellent internet connectivity, and many co-working spaces cater to the needs of digital nomads.
Affordable Living: Compared to major U.S. cities, living in Mexico City is very affordable. You can find affordable accommodation and delicious food options throughout the city.
Visa: Mexico offers a Temporary Resident Visa for digital nomads, allowing you to stay for up to four years with the possibility of renewal.

Perfect for: Creative professionals, freelancers, and remote workers seeking a mix of urban culture and affordability.

4. Chiang Mai, Thailand

Why It’s Great: Chiang Mai is a classic destination for digital nomads, and its popularity continues to soar in 2024. Known for its affordability, excellent co-working spaces, and laid-back atmosphere, Chiang Mai offers a peaceful yet productive environment for remote work.

Fast Internet: Chiang Mai has reliable internet connectivity, and many co-working spaces cater specifically to remote workers.
Affordable Living: Thailand remains one of the most affordable places for digital nomads, with low accommodation and food costs.
Visa: Thailand offers a Tourist Visa with multiple entry options, and it is possible to extend stays. There is also the Smart Visa for highly skilled professionals.

Perfect for: Budget-conscious nomads, creatives, and entrepreneurs seeking a relaxed lifestyle.

5. Tbilisi, Georgia

Why It’s Great: Tbilisi has become one of the most popular destinations for remote workers in recent years. In 2024, Georgia continues to attract digital nomads with its low cost of living, rich culture, and modern amenities.

Fast Internet: Georgia offers reliable internet speeds, especially in the capital, Tbilisi, where numerous cafes and co-working spaces provide high-speed connections.
Affordable Living: The cost of living in Tbilisi is low, making it a great place for digital nomads who want to stretch their budget.
Visa: Georgia’s visa-free regime allows citizens of many countries to stay for up to one year without a visa, making it one of the most flexible destinations for remote workers.

Perfect for: Entrepreneurs, freelancers, and anyone looking for a unique cultural experience combined with affordable living.

6. Barcelona, Spain

Why It’s Great: Barcelona is another top remote work city for 2024. It offers a dynamic mix of beaches, vibrant nightlife, and excellent infrastructure for remote workers. Its popularity among digital nomads is only growing due to its work-friendly environment and cultural appeal.

Fast Internet: Barcelona’s internet speeds are top-notch, and the city is home to many co-working spaces designed for remote workers.
Affordable Living: While Barcelona can be more expensive than some other destinations on this list, it still offers a more affordable cost of living compared to major global cities like London or Paris.
Visa: Spain offers a Non-Lucrative Visa that allows remote workers to stay for up to one year without needing a job in Spain.

Perfect for: Digital nomads who enjoy city life, beach access, and a vibrant social scene.

7. Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Why It’s Great: Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) in Vietnam is a growing destination for digital nomads in 2024. Known for its affordable cost of living, delicious food, and fast internet, HCMC is an excellent city for remote workers seeking an exciting environment and low living expenses.

Fast Internet: The city offers reliable high-speed internet, which is crucial for remote workers.
Affordable Living: Ho Chi Minh City is very affordable, offering budget-friendly accommodation, food, and transportation.
Visa: Vietnam offers a Tourist Visa that can be extended, as well as options for longer stays for remote workers.

Perfect for: Budget-conscious nomads, especially those looking to experience the vibrant culture of Southeast Asia.

8. Bucharest, Romania

Why It’s Great: Bucharest is a rising star in the digital nomad destinations scene. It combines Eastern European charm with modern infrastructure, offering excellent co-working spaces and high-speed internet at an affordable cost.

Fast Internet: Romania boasts some of the fastest internet speeds in Europe, making it an ideal place for digital nomads who rely on connectivity.
Affordable Living: Bucharest is one of the most affordable cities in Europe, making it a great option for remote workers on a budget.
Visa: Romania is part of the EU, and as such, it offers visa options for long-term stays for non-EU citizens through the D Visa.

Perfect for: Digital nomads seeking affordable European living with fast internet and modern amenities.