The 13 Best Digital Nomad Cities for US Expats in 2023

Best Digital Nomad Cities in 2023

Wondering what the best digital nomad cities are? You’re not alone. For digital nomads, the entire world is your office, which is exactly what makes it so difficult to settle on where to go. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by an overload of choices, though, we’re here to help.

We did some research to put together a list of some of the top digital nomad hotspots in the entire world. Here’s a quick rundown of the best digital nomad cities in 2023.

Here’s a quick rundown of the best digital nomad cities in 2023:
Lisbon, Portugal
Madrid, Spain
Uvita, Costa Rica
Medellin, Colombia
Split, Croatia
Athens, Greece
Buenos Aires, Argentina
Tallin, Estonia
Saranda, Albania
Cuenca, Ecuador
São Paulo, Brazil
México City, México
Dubai, UAE
And a surprise bonus city we’ll reveal at the end!

How we evaluated the best digital nomad cities for this list

To come up with our list of the top digital nomad cities, we looked at different criteria like:

  • Cost of living
  • Healthcare
  • Safety
  • Digital nomad visa requirements
  • Local culture
  • Digital nomad community

Considering that dream destinations are largely subjective, we’ve ordered the following list of digital nomad hubs randomly. Let’s dive in! 

The best digital nomad cities: 2023 edition

Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon

💰 Cost of living

About €1,200 (~$1,320 USD) per month.1

🏥 Healthcare

Lisbon generally has high-quality private and public healthcare options, although wait times can sometimes be an issue. Those on the digital nomad visa must arrange their own coverage for their first four months after arrival, but after getting their resident permit, they can apply for local health insurance plans.

🚨 Safety

Lisbon is considered quite safe, with a lower crime rate than many other major European cities. Violent crimes are rare — the most common crimes are petty crimes like pickpocketing in crowded tourist areas.2 Follow common-sense precautions, and you’ll be less likely to encounter problems.

🗺️ Digital nomad visa requirements

To apply for Portugal’s digital nomad visa, you must work remotely, earn a minimum of €3,040 ($3,350 USD) per month, have a clean criminal record, and arrange private travel insurance for the first four months of your stay.

👋 Local culture

Portugal’s capital and largest city, Lisbon is a vibrant and captivating destination with a unique blend of history, culture, and modernity. Lisbon is known for its beautiful architecture (often featuring azulejos, a type of glazed, colorful tile), rolling hills, great beaches, and excellent cuisine, including the ever-popular pastéis de nata custard tarts.

🌍 Digital nomad community

Lisbon is a hot destination for digital nomads, and the city has taken intentional steps to pave the way for them. Nomads in Lisbon are nearly spoiled for choice with a wide variety of co-working spaces, including one of the most distinguished in the world. There are also dedicated communities and events for digital nomads. Some of the most popular neighborhoods for location-independent workers include Alfama, Bairro Alto, and Principe Real.3

Madrid, Spain

💰 Cost of living

About €1,860 (~$2,045 USD) per month.4

🏥 Healthcare

Madrid has a robust, high-quality healthcare system. While those holding the digital nomad visa are not granted access to the public system, there are a number of great private options that can be accessed at a cost of anywhere from $50 to $200 USD per month, depending on your age, health, and how extensive of your coverage is. 

🚨 Safety

Madrid is a very safe city to visit. Violent crimes are rare, with petty crimes like pickpocketing much more common (especially in tourist areas).5 Exercise the same caution you would in any major city.

🗺️ Digital nomad visa requirements

To apply for Spain’s digital nomad visa, you must work remotely and earn at least €2,160 (~$2,375 USD) per month, no more than 20% of which can come from Spain. Additionally, nomads must purchase health insurance with coverage during their entire stay in Spain, in addition to demonstrating a clean criminal record.

👋 Local culture

Madrid is a beautiful, historically rich city that greatly values culture. With some of the best museums in the world, one of the best international soccer teams, and a seemingly endless array of tapas bars to visit, it’s hard to get bored in this European capital. On top of that, the locals tend to be outgoing, friendly, and eager to practice their English.

🌍 Digital nomad community

Madrid is home to a growing digital nomad community, especially since the launch of the Spain digital nomad visa. There are plenty of coworking spaces, and coliving spaces are starting to pop up. Some of the most popular neighborhoods for digital nomads include Malasaña, La Latina, and Chamberí. 

Uvita, Costa Rica

💰 Cost of living

Around $2,000 to $4,000 USD per month.6

🏥 Healthcare

Costa Rica’s healthcare system is one of the best in the world — the United Nations ranked it at number 20.7 Uvita specifically has a large number of healthcare clinics, dentists, and even a hospital nearby. For more serious or complicated issues, however, you may need to travel to San José, which is three hours away by car.

🚨 Safety

Uvita is generally safe, with many foreign tourists (including families) visiting each year. That being said, crimes like petty theft and pickpocketing are not unheard of. The town (and especially the beach) are widely patrolled, but you’ll want to avoid dressing flashy, bringing valuables in public, and walking alone at night.

🗺️ Digital nomad visa requirements

To apply for Costa Rica’s digital nomad visa, you must work remotely, earn at least $3,000 USD per month ($4,000 USD if you’re bringing family members), and purchase private health insurance for the entirety of your stay in the country.

👋 Local culture

This town along Costa Rica’s Pacific coast is beautiful and tranquil, perfectly emblematic of Costa Rica’s pura vida lifestyle. However, there’s still plenty to do. Uvita is particularly well known for its stunning beaches, excellent surfing, and outdoor activities like whale-watching and hiking.

🌍 Digital nomad community

Uvita has a relatively small but tight-knit digital nomad community that is growing larger every year. There are several different co-working spaces and cafés to work out of, and fast, reliable Wi-Fi.

Medellin, Colombia

Medellin, Colombia, has long been a popular digital nomad destination.

💰 Cost of living

About COL$4,250,000 (~$1,050 USD) per month.

🏥 Healthcare

Colombia has a high-quality healthcare system. The World Health Organization ranked it as the 22nd best in the world, and the top one in Latin America.9 Medellin in particular has some of the best facilities in the country, with many hospitals and healthcare facilities. Those holding a digital nomad visa must purchase a private insurance plan, which may cost around $180 – $325 USD per month.

🚨 Safety

While Medellin had a turbulent past from the ‘70s to the ‘90s, safety has improved enormously in recent years.10 Most tourist areas and affluent neighborhoods are safe during the daytime, although it is often recommended that people avoid walking alone at night. Common recommendations for foreigners include taking Ubers instead of taxis, exercising particular caution in the downtown areas, and don’t take more than they need while going out.11

🗺️ Digital nomad visa requirements

To apply for Colombia’s digital nomad visa, you must work for or with a company located outside of Colombia, earn a minimum of $3 million Colombian pesos (~$745 USD) per month, and purchase private health insurance.

👋 Local culture

Medellín, Colombia, exudes a dynamic and innovative vibe. With year-round pleasant weather, Medellin has been dubbed the “City of Eternal Spring.” Medellín’s warm and welcoming locals contribute to a sense of community and hospitality, fostering a sense of connection for both residents and visitors. From a thriving tech community to an active arts and cultural scene, there’s something for just about everybody.

🌍 Digital nomad community

Historically an off-the-beaten-track destination for the world’s backpacking community, globalization has positioned Medellin extremely well for the digital nomad boom. Although prices aren’t as low as they once were, by today’s digital nomad standards Medellin remains known for its affordable cost of living, many co-working and co-living spaces, and fast and reliable internet. Additionally, there are a variety of different digital nomad groups that offer community support, gatherings and events. Some of the top neighborhoods for digital nomads include Laureles, Poblado, Envigado, and Sabaneta.12

Split, Croatia

💰 Cost of living

About €1,400 to €3,000 (~$1,550 – $3,250) per month, depending on lifestyle.

🏥 Healthcare

Split, Croatia, generally has high-quality, accessible healthcare. There are several major hospitals and many medical clinics that are modern and well-equipped, offering both basic care and specialized services. Digital nomad visa holders do have to purchase private health insurance, which costs around €36-€135 ($40 to $150 USD) per month.13

🚨 Safety

Croatia is ranked as the 15th-safest country according to the Global Peace Index. Split in particular ranks well for safety, with low rates of both violent and petty crime.14 Foreigners that follow common-sense precautions are unlikely to encounter safety issues.

🗺️ Digital nomad visa requirements

To apply for Croatia’s digital nomad visa, you must work for a company based outside of Croatia, earn at least €2,300 (~$2,520 USD) per month, purchase private health insurance, and possess a clean criminal record.

👋 Local culture

Split, Croatia, is a charming coastal city that offers ancient monuments, such as the UNESCO World Heritage site Diocletian’s Palace; modern bars, restaurants, and shopping; and gorgeous beaches. Residents are spoiled for views as they stroll along Rica, the city’s waterfront promenade, and there cafes for catching up with (and making!) friends are in abundant supply. 

🌍 Digital nomad community

While Split may not have as large of a digital nomad community as other major cities, it’s growing all the time. There are a number of co-working spaces and work-friendly cafés already open, and many new spaces opening every month. Some digital nomads note that the internet isn’t quite as quick and reliable as it is in other places, but the government is actively working on addressing the issue. Popular neighborhoods for digital nomads include Radunica, Meje, and Bacvice. 

Athens, Greece

Neighborhood street in Athens, Greece

💰 Cost of living

About €900 – €3,000 (~$990 – $3,200 USD) per month, depending on lifestyle.

🏥 Healthcare

The healthcare in Greece as a whole is generally of good quality, with the best care available in major cities such as Athens or Thessaloniki. With a number of large, well-equipped hospitals and various clinics, it’s easy to receive both general and specialized care — although private facilities tend to be better than public ones. Private insurance costs depend largely on factors like your health and age, but they can cost as little as €80 or as much as €1,000 per year or more. 

🚨 Safety

Athens is largely a safe city, although there has been an increase in petty crimes such as pickpocketing and bag snatching. The best way to stay safe is by keeping to the central neighborhoods, and avoiding or being hyper-vigilance in areas like Omonia Square, Metaxourghio station, and Exarchia. In addition to practicing basic common sense, it’s recommended to stay away from demonstrations and only ride in licensed taxis.15

🗺️ Digital nomad visa requirements

To apply for Greece’s digital nomad visa, you must work for or with a company located outside of Greece, earn a minimum of €3,500 (~$ 3,850 USD) per month, have a clean criminal record, and purchase private health insurance.

👋 Local culture

Few places blend the past and the present as much as Athens. The bustling city is home not only to historic sites like the Acropolis and the Parthenon, but also trendy bars and restaurants, and contemporary art galleries. The warm Mediterranean climate encourages many residents to spend time outdoors, whether they’re taking a stroll, dining on a terrace, or heading down to a nearby beach.

🌍 Digital nomad community

Athens’ digital nomad community is still developing, but it’s expected to grow in the wake of Greece’s recently-launched digital nomad visa. The internet in Athens is fast and reliable, and there are many co-working spaces (although they are largely populated by small startups vs. individual remote workers). A couple of particularly popular neighborhoods for digital nomads are Koukaki and Pangrati.

Buenos Aires, Argentina

💰 Cost of living

About $1,000-$1,300 USD per month.16

🏥 Healthcare

Buenos Aires offers exceptional healthcare at a much lower price than in the US, something which has turned it into a destination for medical tourism. Hospitals and health clinics abound and provide care for everything from minor injuries to major procedures. Digital nomads will need to purchase private insurance, which typically costs about $80 USD per month for those 26 and below and $100 USD for those 27 and older.17

🚨 Safety

Argentina is a generally safe country overall, with the Global Peace Index rating it as the third-safest country in Latin America.18 Buenos Aires specifically is quite safe as well, although petty crime is on the rise in certain areas (including San Telmo, Florida Street, and Avenida de Mayo). There is some civil unrest as inflation continues to grow, so foreigners should be aware of protests and demonstrations. 

🗺️ Digital nomad visa requirements

To apply for Argentina’s digital nomad visa, you must work for or with a company located outside of Argentina, be able to financially support yourself (there aren’t any specific income requirements, but some recommend earning around $2,500 USD per month), have a clean criminal record, and purchase private health insurance.

👋 Local culture

Buenos Aires is a lively, cosmopolitan, and multicultural city where the traditions of Europe and Latin America combine. Don’t be surprised if you find people dancing the tango on a street filled with ornate, European-style buildings, or a traditional parilla next to an authentic Italian restaurant. Digital nomads in particular will enjoy the city’s thriving arts scene, lush parks, and festive nightlife.

🌍 Digital nomad community

Buenos Aires’ digital nomad community has been on the rise as the US dollar continues to outperform the Argentinean peso, making it one of the top digital nomad destinations in South America. There are multiple digital nomad groups, such as Buenos Aires Digital Nomad Meetups and Digital Nomads Buenos Aires, that arrange meet-ups and events. While there are many co-working places to choose from, some find that the internet speed and reliability are spotty from place to place.

Tallinn, Estonia

Tallin, Estonia

💰 Cost of living

About €1,500 (~$1,650 USD) per month.

🏥 Healthcare

Tallinn has a high-quality healthcare system with modern, well-equipped facilities (hospitals, clinics, medical centers, etc.) that cover a range of medical services.

🚨 Safety

Tallinn, Estonia is a generally safe city. Violent crime is very low — much more typical are things like petty theft and vandalism. That being said, it’s recommended that foreigners stay away from the outskirts of the city, and be particularly diligent while on public transit (especially during high tourist seasons).19

🗺️ Digital nomad visa requirements

To apply for Estonia’s digital nomad visa, you must be older than 18, be an employer/partner/shareholder of a company outside of Estonia, work remotely for clients based outside of Estonia, and verify that you have a monthly income of at least €3,500 (~$3,850 USD).20 

👋 Local culture

Tallinn’s Old Town, with its cobblestone streets and historic architecture, may make you feel like you’ve stepped right into a fairy tale. But don’t be fooled — it’s still a modern, tech-savvy city. The culture is a blend of Baltic and Scandinavian influences, reflected in the city’s cuisine, arts, and design scene. The warm and welcoming locals, bustling cafés, artesanal markets, and many cultural events make it a great place to live.

🌍 Digital nomad community

Estonia has been at the forefront of the digital nomad visa trend. Launched in July 2020, at the time it was the first of its kind. Since then, Estonia (and Tallin in particular) have become synonymous with digital nomadism, with the result being a large digital nomad community and many services such as co-working spaces, co-living spaces, and laptop-friendly cafés readily available. The nomad population spikes during the summer, when the weather is mild and the sun doesn’t set until late in the night. 

Saranda, Albania

💰 Cost of living

Less than $1,000 per month.21

🏥 Healthcare

Healthcare in Saranda is improving as it receives more and more tourism, but there are still sometimes challenges in quality and accessibility, and facilities may not be as numerous or modern as in other large cities in Europe. If you develop a healthcare issue requiring complex or specialized care, you may need to fly elsewhere in Europe.

🚨 Safety

Saranda, like Albania as a whole, has a low rate of crime. Crimes against tourists are rare, but when they do occur they are typically petty crimes like pickpocketing (typically on crowded places like public transport). Additionally, water quality can vary, so it’s best to stick to bottled water or to boil tap water before drinking it.

🗺️ Digital nomad visa requirements

To apply for Albania’s digital nomad visa, you must have a valid employment/service contract with a foreign company, sufficient income, a clean criminal record, and private health insurance.

👋 Local culture

Saranda is located along the Ionian Sea, featuring a wide array of things to do, such as visiting historic ruins, sunning on beaches, and trying out fresh seafood restaurants and local markets. The pace of life is relaxed, and the people welcoming. Nature buffs will enjoy exploring wonders like the Blue Eye Spring and exploring up and down the Albanian Riviera.

🌍 Digital nomad community

Saranda’s digital nomad community is small, but growing, with remote workers flocking to the city for its world-class beaches at affordable prices. Internet speed and reception is typically good, especially at work-friendly cafés. However, 10-20 minute power outages are not uncommon.22 While the co-working space economy is still developing, more are opening all the time.

Cuenca, Ecuador

💰 Cost of living

Less than $1,000 USD per month.

🏥 Healthcare

The quality of healthcare in Cuenca can vary, but it tends to be better in private facilities rather than public ones. If you have complex or specialized medical needs, you may need to head to a bigger city (such as Quito) to be properly attended to.

🚨 Safety

While crime rates are overall higher in Ecuador than in the other Latin American countries on this list, it varies widely from location to location. Cuenca, for its part, is considered one of the safest areas. 

Streets are clean, widely patrolled, and safe to stroll during the day — though it’s better to take an Uber or official taxi at night. Be particularly aware of your surroundings at the bus station, and avoid or exercise particular vigilance in areas like Cayambe, La Merced, and Feria Libre.23

🗺️ Digital nomad visa requirements

To apply for Ecuador’s digital nomad visa, you must prove that you work remotely for a company or client abroad, earn at least 3x the basic monthly salary ($1,350, as of 2023), have a clear criminal record, and purchase private health insurance.

👋 Local culture

Cuenca’s culture is a rich blend of indigenous heritage and Spanish colonial influence. Preserving tradition is important to this city— which makes sense, given that the historic center has been labeled a UNESCO World Heritage site. Locals are warm and welcoming, and pride themselves on craftwork like Panama hat weaving and ceramics. While the pace of life may be a bit slower, they know how to celebrate as well, with festivals, parades, and celebrations all throughout the year.

🌍 Digital nomad community

Cuenca’s digital nomad community may not be as large as the one in Ecuador’s capital city of Quito, but it’s growing nonetheless. There are a few co-working spaces and laptop-friendly cafés, with more expected to open. The internet is generally high-quality, as much of the city has fiber-optic connectivity, although it varies between neighborhoods.

São Paulo, Brazil

São Paulo, Brazil

💰 Cost of living

Approximately $1,200 – $1,500 USD per month.

🏥 Healthcare

São Paulo boasts a well-developed healthcare system with both public and private options.24 Private facilities often offer a higher quality of care and shorter wait times, making them preferable for expatriates and digital nomads. However, public healthcare is available and can be a more affordable alternative.

🚨 Safety

Safety can be a concern in some areas of São Paulo, as it is a bustling metropolis. While violent crime rates have decreased in recent years, petty crimes like pickpocketing can still occur, especially in crowded tourist areas. It’s advisable to stay cautious and avoid displaying valuable items in public.

🗺️ Digital nomad visa requirements

As of 2023, Brazil doesn’t offer a specific digital nomad visa. However, you can enter the country on a tourist visa and work remotely for up to 180 days within a year. Be sure to check the latest visa regulations before planning your stay.

👋 Local culture

São Paulo is a melting pot of cultures, resulting in a diverse and vibrant local scene. The city is known for its art, music, and culinary experiences. You’ll find a mix of traditional Brazilian culture, as well as modern and international influences. The locals, known as Paulistanos, are known for their friendly and welcoming nature.

🌍 Digital nomad community

São Paulo boasts a thriving digital nomad community due to its status as Brazil’s economic hub. Co-working spaces, tech meetups, and networking events are common. The city offers excellent internet connectivity, with many areas having access to high-speed fiber-optic internet. Neighborhoods like Vila Madalena and Pinheiros are particularly popular among the digital nomad crowd.

Mexico City, Mexico

Mexico City, Mexico

💰 Cost of living

Roughly $1,000 – $1,500 USD per month.

🏥 Healthcare

Mexico City offers a mix of healthcare options, with both public and private facilities.25 Many private hospitals are well-equipped and provide high-quality care. Expats and digital nomads often opt for private healthcare due to its efficiency and English-speaking staff.

🚨 Safety

While Mexico City has had a reputation for safety concerns in the past, it has made significant strides in improving security. Most areas frequented by tourists and expats are considered safe, especially during the day. Like any big city, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings and take precautions against petty theft.

🗺️ Digital nomad visa requirements

As of 2023, Mexico doesn’t have a specific visa for digital nomads. You can enter the country on a tourist visa and engage in remote work, however, the length of time for which visas are issued is changing, as is government regulation regarding remote work.26 It’s advisable to follow immigration rules and ensure that your work activities comply with visa regulations.

👋 Local culture

Mexico City is a dynamic and culturally rich metropolis with a deep history. From ancient Aztec ruins to colonial-era architecture, the city is a blend of tradition and modernity. The locals are known for their warmth and hospitality. The city’s vibrant arts scene, street food culture, and lively festivals make it an exciting place to explore.

🌍 Digital nomad community

Mexico City has been gaining popularity among digital nomads due to its affordability and cultural offerings. The city has numerous co-working spaces, cafes with reliable Wi-Fi, and networking events. The internet connectivity is generally good, and you’ll find various neighborhoods like Condesa and Roma Norte that are favored by the digital nomad community.

Dubai, UAE

Taxes in Dubai and the UAE - aerial shot of Dubai

💰 Cost of living

Approximately $2,500 – $3,500 USD per month.

🏥 Healthcare

Healthcare in Dubai is of high quality, with modern medical facilities and well-trained professionals. Both public and private healthcare options are available. Expats and digital nomads often choose private healthcare for quicker service and English-speaking staff.

🚨 Safety

Dubai is known for its strict approach to law enforcement, making it one of the safest cities in the world.27 Crime rates are generally low, and the city is known for its safe streets, even at night. However, it’s still advisable to exercise caution and follow local laws and regulations.

🗺️ Digital nomad visa requirements

As of 2023, Dubai offers a one-year virtual working program that allows remote workers and their families to live in Dubai while continuing their jobs. The program requires proof of employment, health insurance with UAE coverage, and a passport with at least 6 months of validity.

👋 Local culture

Dubai is a city of contrasts, blending traditional Arabian culture with modern luxury. While it’s a multicultural hub, the UAE’s Islamic values and traditions are deeply rooted. Visitors are expected to respect local customs, including dress codes and public behavior. The city offers a mix of traditional souks, futuristic skyscrapers, and world-class shopping malls.

🌍 Digital nomad community

Dubai has been actively attracting remote workers through its virtual working program. The city boasts a growing digital nomad community with co-working spaces, tech events, and networking opportunities. The internet infrastructure is excellent, providing reliable high-speed connections throughout the city.

BONUS – An upcoming digital nomad city for 2024

Toronto

💰 Cost of living

Approximately $2,000 – $3,000 USD per month.

🏥 Healthcare

Canada is known for its publicly funded healthcare system, and Toronto offers a range of medical facilities and services. Residents and visitors have access to quality healthcare, with no immediate out-of-pocket costs for most medical services.

🚨 Safety

Toronto is generally considered a safe city, with a low crime rate compared to other major cities. Violent crime is relatively rare, and the city’s neighborhoods are generally safe to explore. As with any urban area, it’s wise to remain vigilant, especially in crowded or unfamiliar areas.

🗺️ Digital nomad visa requirements

Canada just launched its remote working scheme, targeting location-independent workers in tech in particular. According to Immigration Minister Sean Fraser, “We’re actually creating a pool of talent of people who will be able to stay in Canada in the long term.”

👋 Local culture

Toronto is a diverse and multicultural city, often referred to as a “cultural mosaic.” You’ll find a mix of cultures, languages, and cuisines. The city’s art scene, theaters, and vibrant neighborhoods offer a rich cultural experience. Torontonians are known for their friendliness and openness to different backgrounds.

🌍 Digital nomad community

Toronto has a growing digital nomad community, thanks to its status as Canada’s largest city and financial hub. The city offers a plethora of co-working spaces, tech meetups, and networking events. The internet infrastructure is robust, with reliable high-speed connectivity available in most areas.

How to choose a city to be digital nomad?

Embarking on a digital nomad journey is an exciting endeavor, offering the freedom to work remotely while exploring new places. However, selecting the right city to call your temporary home requires careful consideration of several factors. Here’s an overview of considerations to help you evaluate potential cities for your digital nomad adventure.

Internet connectivity

As a digital nomad, a reliable and fast internet connection is non-negotiable. Look for cities with a robust internet infrastructure and widespread Wi-Fi availability. Check for areas with high-speed connections and explore co-working spaces or cafes known for their excellent internet services.

Climate and environment

Consider your climate preferences. Do you thrive in a warm tropical paradise or prefer a cooler, more temperate climate? Research shows that the weather can greatly impact our ability to do our work, as demonstrated by the number of people who live with and suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).28 

Depending on your preferences, research cities that align with your ideal weather conditions. A city’s environment, such as proximity to beaches, mountains, or natural landscapes, can also play a role in your overall experience.

Community and networking

A strong digital nomad community can provide invaluable support and enrich your experience. Seek out cities with a thriving community of like-minded individuals by exploring hashtags associated with digital nomads on social media, and engaging with thought leaders in the space. More and more often, co-living spaces also offer a source of comfort and community to digital nomads.29

While building your community, you can also research co-working spaces, meetups, and events designed for digital nomads. Engaging with fellow nomads can lead to networking opportunities and lasting friendships that endure long after the time you spend together in a city.

Balancing popular destinations with off-the-beaten-track locations

Balancing between popular destinations and emerging cities is essential to developing a holistic understanding of the international digital nomad community. 

Established digital nomad hotspots offer established infrastructure and a welcoming community. On the other hand, up-and-coming cities might provide unique experiences and potential growth opportunities.

In order to evaluate your preference, take honest stock of where you’re at in your life and what you’re looking to get out of a new experience.

Digital nomad visas and regulations

As demonstrated throughout this article, many, many countries are now offering official digital nomad visas to remote and self-employed workers. Digital nomad visas, or even flexible visa options, can assist you in landing on your feet in a new destination by giving you an extended period of time to legally reside there. 

Government support and tax considerations

Some countries offer favorable tax conditions for digital nomads. In addition to researching whether a country offers a digital nomad visa, it’s important to understand and compare the tax incentives between countries. 

Strong incentives indicate that a government is supportive of remote work, and foreign residents. Moreover, favorable tax conditions can significantly impact your financial situation and overall experience.

Cost of living

Evaluate the cost of living in your chosen city. Compare expenses such as accommodation, food, transportation, and entertainment. Consider your budget and how it aligns with the local cost of living to ensure a comfortable and sustainable stay.

Quality of life

Assess the overall quality of life in a potential city. Consider factors like healthcare, safety, cultural attractions, and leisure activities. A city that offers a well-rounded lifestyle will enhance your digital nomad experience.

Personal interests and hobbies

Factor in your personal interests and hobbies. Do you enjoy outdoor activities, art, food, or cultural experiences? Choose a city that aligns with your passions to make the most of your time outside of work.

Future planning

Think about the long term. While your current digital nomad journey might be temporary, consider how the city aligns with your future goals. Whether it’s a stepping stone to your next adventure or a place to settle down eventually, make choices that resonate with your aspirations.

Ultimately, the perfect digital nomad city will be a unique blend of your preferences and practical considerations. Take the time to research and weigh the factors that matter most to you, ensuring a fulfilling and enriching experience as you explore the world while working remotely.

Digital nomad working overlooking the sea

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References

  1. Cost of Living in Lisbon
  2. How Safe is Lisbon for Travel?
  3. Living in Lisbon as a Digital Nomad
  4. Cost of Living in Madrid
  5. How Safe is Madrid for Travel?
  6. Cost of Living in Uvita
  7. Understanding the Costa Rican Healthcare System
  8. Living in Uvita, Costa Rica – An Expat’s Guide
  9. Overview of Colombia Healthcare System
  10. Crime in Medellin – Data Update 2023 (Mid-Year)
  11. The Ultimate Medellin Digital Nomad Guide: Is It Worth It?
  12. Cost of Living in Croatia
  13. Is Croatia Safe to Visit in 2023
  14. Is Athens Safe – 2023
  15. Cost of Living in Argentina
  16. Healthcare During Your Stay in Buenos Aires
  17. Global Peace Index in Argentina 2023
  18. Argentina Digital Nomad Visa
  19. Is Tallin Safe for Travel in 2023
  20. Digital Nomad Visa – Estonia
  21. Can You Live for Less Than 1000 USD in Sarande, Albania?
  22. The Ultimate Guide to Albania for Digital Nomads
  23. The Safest City in Ecuador 2023
  24. Healthcare in São Paulo
  25. Healthcare in México
  26.  Changes to Time Allowed in México on a Visitor Permit
  27.  Is it Safe to Travel to Dubai in 2023?
  28. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
  29.  Seven Ways to Make Your Coliving Experience the Best Yet

Note: Unless indicated otherwise above, for information regarding the estimated cost of living in a certain city we utilize Numbeo.com.

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The Top Digital Nomad Cities in 2023 - FAQ

  • What are the tax implications of being a digital nomad?

    US citizens and permanent residents are subject to taxation on worldwide income, meaning that US digital nomads may trigger tax obligations in both the US and the countries they pass through. 

    Understanding and managing these obligations is crucial to leading a financially healthy lifestyle, and we strongly recommend consulting with a US expat CPA prior to embarking on a digital nomad journey, particularly if you intend to support yourself through self-employment activities. These include but are by no means limited to, business coaching, offering digital marketing services, and teaching English online. 

    US expat tax experts can assist you in both navigating and optimizing your tax situation as you explore the world.