Get to know the authorIn the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, becoming a digital nomad is more accessible than ever. More and more companies are open to letting employees work from anywhere, while dozens of countries now offer digital nomad visas. For those hoping to earn money while traveling the world, there are plenty of digital nomad careers available — the hard part is choosing one to pursue.
To help you narrow down your search, we put together a list of some of the best digital nomad jobs available.
How we curated this list
We took multiple factors into account when creating this list. Why? Because we know that every digital nomad journey is personal – some seek higher pay and greater freedom, while others seek simplicity and ease. Bearing that in mind, we used the following to determine the inclusion of a job in this list:
- Accessibility: Skillsets can be self-taught or learned through online courses
- Location independent: Easy to work outside of a fixed office
- Earning potential: Livable wages with potential for growth (because being a digital nomad does not mean you won’t have a developing career path!)
- Professional growth: Opportunities for professional development
- High demand: Volume of jobs available
Preparing to work as a digital nomad
Before you embark on your digital nomad journey, however, it’s important to think about the practicalities:
- Visas: Most countries will require you to apply for a visa if you choose to live and work there on a long-term basis, 90 days being a common definition of “long-term” for visa purposes
- Securing work: It’s better to find work before you leave; expenses can add up quickly, and searching for a job while adjusting to a new lifestyle can be stressful
- Accommodation: Do you want to roam from place to place, or operate out of a central home base? Keep in mind that long-term rental contracts are typically cheaper than short-term stays at Airbnbs, hostels, and hotels
- Workspace: Will you work remotely from wherever you’re staying, or do you prefer a co-working space or café? If you choose one of the latter, factor those expenses into your budget and look at online reviews for the quality of Wi-Fi & the working space
- Equipment: Make sure that you have all of the gear you need to do your job. Opt for quality over cost savings as repairing or replacing equipment can be difficult or more expensive abroad. If upfront cost is an issue, look into monthly payment plans
- Essential services: Anywhere you work must have reliable Wi-Fi service, so don’t just take their word for it — read online reviews to confirm it. You’ll also want to look into a VPN,1 online banking or a currency transfer provider, and cellphone plans2 that can best accommodate your lifestyle
- Business structure: Anyone who is self-employed should understand the tax implications that come along with it and research which business structure is best for them3
Best digital nomad jobs
Below, we’ve compiled a list of the best digital nomad jobs out there. When thinking about which one to pursue, you’ll want to consider factors like which jobs help you leverage or build upon your existing skills, and whether the salaries they offer suit your lifestyle (although of course, your exact pay will depend largely on your skill level, years of experience, and the hours you put in).
Virtual Assistant
What they do
Serve as an administrative assistant for clients, helping with such tasks as scheduling meetings, answering emails and phone calls, entering data, booking travel, and more.
Who it’s for
Organized, responsible individuals who enjoy working with others, often supporting them as business owners.
Skills required
- Organization
- Time management
- Customer service
- Communication
- Typing
Estimated earning potential
$29,000 – $67,0004
Growth opportunities
- Executive Assistant
- Paralegal
- Customer Service Representative
- Marketing Assistant
- Project Manager
Online Educator
What they do
Teach classes or tutor students on a variety of different subjects.
Who it’s for
Patient, empathetic people who enjoy helping others.
Skills required
- Subject matter expertise (e.g. teaching English as a second language, math, science, etc.)
- Communication skills
- Creativity
- Classroom management
- Educational credentials, depending on role (e.g. TEFL certificate, teaching certificate, etc.)
Estimated earning potential
$33,000 – $78,0005
Growth opportunities
- Educational Administrator
- Instructional Designer
- Academic Advisor
- Curriculum Specialist
- Department Head
App Developer
What they do
Design, program, and debug mobile apps.
Who it’s for
Creative, technically-proficient individuals who enjoy a challenge.
Skills required
- Mastery of programming languages (e.g. JavaScript, HTML/CSS, Python, etc.)
- Familiarity with Agile practices
- Problem-solving
- Data analysis
- UX and design
Estimated earning potential
$63,000 – $139,0006
Growth opportunities
- Product Manager
- Project Manager
- Scrum Master
- Software Engineering Manager
- Data Scientist
Content Writer
What they do
Create written content for clients. Content writing can include short-form assets (e.g. social media copy, web copy, email copy, etc.) and/or long-form assets (e.g. blog posts, white papers, case studies, etc.).
Who it’s for
Creatives with a passion for the written word.
Skills required
- Writing
- Editing
- SEO
- Marketing
- Communication
Estimated earning potential
$32,000 – $92,0007
Growth opportunities
- Content Marketing Manager
- Content Editor
- Editorial Director
- Technical Writer
- Marketing Manager
SEO Specialist
What they do
Optimize websites to appear higher on search engine results pages.
Who it’s for
Analytical, results-driven people with a constant desire to learn.
Skills required
- Data analysis
- Google Analytics & Google Search Console
- Knowledge of SEO tools (e.g. Semrush, Moz, Ahrefs)
- Research
- Basic programming
Estimated earning potential
$33,000 – $97,0008
Growth opportunities
- SEO Manager
- Digital Marketing Manager
- Data Analyst
- Growth Marketing Manager
- Performance Marketing Manager
Social Media Manager
What they do
Create content, develop strategies, and perform community management for brands’ social media channels.
Who it’s for
Creative, data-driven individuals who love staying on top of the latest trends.
Skills required
- Writing
- Communication
- Strategy
- Knowledge of social media platforms
- Knowledge of social media marketing tools (e.g. Sprout Social, Hootsuite, Sprinklr, etc.)
Estimated earning potential
$36,000 – $91,0009
Growth opportunities
- Digital Marketing Manager
- Content Marketing Manager
- Brand Manager
- Head of Social Media
- Chief Content Officer
Web Developer
What they do
Design, build, and optimize web pages.
Who it’s for
People who enjoy creativity, design, and technology in equal measure.
Skills required
- Programming languages (JavaScript, HTML, CSS, etc.)
- UX and UI design principles
- Data analysis
- Knowledge of content management systems (e.g. WordPress, Hubspot, Drupal, etc.)
- Knowledge of design tools (e.g. Adobe Illustrator, Figma, InVision, etc.)
Estimated earning potential
$63,000 – $103,00010
Growth opportunities
- Software Engineer
- UX Designer
- UI Designer
- UX Researcher
- Head of UX
Marketing Specialist
What they do
Develop marketing campaigns, create marketing strategies, and provide marketing analysis and advice.
Who it’s for
People passionate about the art and science of marketing.
Skills required
- Communication
- Data analysis
- Strategy
- Knowledge of marketing platforms (e.g. Hubspot, Marketo, Moz, etc.)
- Project Management
Estimated earning potential
$37,000 – $92,00011
Growth opportunities
- Marketing Manager
- Marketing Operations Manager
- Brand Manager
- Marketing Research Analyst
- Chief Marketing Officer
Bookkeeper
What they do
Record and maintain financial records for businesses.
Who it’s for
Detail-oriented people who enjoy working with numbers.
Skills required
- Strong math skills
- Organization
- Attention to detail
- Data entry
- Basic knowledge of finance
Estimated earning potential
$31,000 – $64,00012
Growth opportunities
- Payroll Specialist
- Accountant
- Certified Public Accountant
- Personal Financial Advisor
- Finance Analyst
Recruiter
What they do
Help companies or agencies fill open roles.
Who it’s for
Those who excel at salesmanship and working with others.
Skills required
- People skills
- Communication
- Organization
- Time management
- Knowledge of applicant tracking systems (e.g. Greenhouse, iCIMS, Lever, etc.)
Estimated earning potential
- $50,000 – $129,00013
Growth opportunities
- Talent Acquisition Manager
- HR Manager
- Career Coach
- Employee Experience Manager
- Chief People Officer
Content Creator
What they do
Produce and curate engaging and valuable content across various digital platforms, including blogs, social media, videos, and podcasts.
Who it’s for
Creative individuals with a passion for storytelling, multimedia production, and building a loyal online audience.
Skills required
- Proficiency in content creation tools (e.g. graphic design software, video editing tools)
- Strong writing and communication skills
- Understanding of digital marketing and SEO principles
- Ability to adapt content for different platforms and target audiences
Estimated earning potential
$30,000 – $80,000*
*This figure is based on a review of several different sources and should be considered a starting point when researching the potential here as it is also highly dependent on other factors such as industry, your network, etc.
Growth opportunities
- Social Media Manager
- Video Producer
- Podcast Host
- Digital Marketing Specialist
- Freelance Writer or Editor
- Online Course Creator
Photographer
What they do
Take and edit photos for their employers, clients, and/or publications.
Who it’s for
Artistic souls with an eye for design.
Skills required
- Advanced knowledge of professional cameras
- Familiarity with photo editing software (e.g. Photoshop, Lightroom, Luminar, etc.)
- Knowledge of photography design principles
- Attention to detail
- Marketing
Estimated earning potential
$30,000 – $75,00014
Growth opportunities
- Graphic Designer
- Creative Director
- Videographer
- Video Editor
- Motion Designer
Affiliate Marketer
What they do
Promote and sell products or services for companies through affiliate programs, earning a commission for each successful referral.
Who it’s for
Entrepreneurs with a flair for marketing and a passion for building online relationships.
Skills required
- Digital marketing expertise
- Social media and content marketing knowledge
- Analytical skills to track and optimize campaigns
- Strong communication and persuasion abilities
Estimated earning potential
$40,000 – $100,00015
Growth opportunities
- Digital Marketing Manager
- E-commerce Strategist
- Influencer Marketing Specialist
- Online Business Owner
- SEO Specialist
Executive Coach
What they do
Guide and mentor executives and professionals to enhance leadership skills, improve performance, and achieve personal and career growth.
Who it’s for
Experienced professionals with a background in coaching, mentoring, or human resources, who have a passion for empowering others.
Skills required
Strong coaching and mentoring abilities
Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills
Understanding of leadership development strategies
Empathy and emotional intelligence
Estimated earning potential
$60,000 – $150,000*
*This figure is based on a review of several different sources and should be considered a starting point when researching the potential here as it is also highly dependent on other factors such as industry, your network, etc.
Growth opportunities
Leadership Development Consultant
Organizational Development Specialist
Executive Trainer
Human Resources Director
Professional Development Coach
Online Therapist
What they do
Provide counseling and therapeutic support to clients through virtual platforms, addressing mental health concerns, emotional well-being, and personal growth.
Who it’s for
Licensed and qualified mental health professionals who are adept at offering remote counseling services.
Skills required
Clinical expertise in psychology, counseling, or social work
Empathy and active listening skills
Ability to create a safe and supportive virtual environment
Knowledge of online therapeutic tools and platforms
Estimated earning potential
$50,000 – $100,000*
*This figure is based on a review of several different sources and should be considered a starting point when researching the potential here as it is also highly dependent on other factors such as industry, your network, etc.
Growth opportunities
Telehealth Specialist
Mental Health Consultant
Online Counseling Supervisor
Private Practice Owner
Mental Health Advocate
How to find digital nomad jobs
Getting a job as a digital nomad is no small feat; it’s essentially synonymous with getting a remote job. That said, there are several steps you can take to facilitate a productive digital nomad job search:
- Identify your skills and passion: Define your expertise and interests to shape your job search.
- Use Remote Job Websites: Check out platforms like Remote.co, We Work Remotely, and FlexJobs for diverse nomad job listings.
- Leverage social media and networking: Connect with remote-friendly companies on platforms like LinkedIn and other professional networks.
- Explore freelancing platforms: Market your skills independently on sites like Upwork, Fiverr, and Toptal.
- Attend virtual events: Participate in online job fairs, webinars, and conferences to expand your network and find opportunities.
- Engage with nomad communities: Join forums and social groups to learn from experienced nomads. Be sure to come prepared to listen more than you speak – networking is all about asking the right questions and committing to genuinely growing a relationship with professionals you admire.
- Be persistent and adaptable: Embrace the evolving nature of digital nomad jobs and stay determined in your search.
Best online job boards for digital nomads
In addition to the resources mentioned above, you may also find the following online resources useful for finding the right role for you to apply for:
| Upwork | Indeed | Idealist (nonprofit) | |
| Pangian | Freelancer.com | Working Nomads | PowerToFly (tech) |
| Remotive | Virtual Vocations | Remote OK | Arc (for junior tech roles) |
| Jobspresso | Guru | AuthenticJobs | Dribbble (for graphic design) |
| Outschool (for online teaching) | VIPKid (for online teaching) | Therapist Job Board (for mental health professionals) | Crossover (for advanced career professionals) |
Note: All links without a note in parenthesis indicate that you may remote jobs in many industries via the resource.
💡 Pro tip:
Don’t forget to check the careers page of the sites that curate remote job opportunities! Oftentimes they are hiring for remote roles as well, most typically in the web or business development departments.
Digital nomad tax implications
Understanding taxes is crucial for US digital nomads as they must file a US tax return annually, regardless of their global location. As a beginner, consider these key points:
Residency Status
Determine your tax residency, either as a “resident” or “non-resident” based on IRS guidelines. This impacts which forms you need to file.
Claiming IRS Tax Provisions
As a US digital nomad, you can leverage IRS tax provisions to manage your tax liability effectively. Two essential options are the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (FEIE) and the Foreign Tax Credit (FTC). Read more about these important digital nomad tax provisions.
Tax Treaties
Be aware of tax treaties between the US and the country you reside in. These treaties can influence how your income is taxed.
Filing Deadlines
Understand US tax filing deadlines, extensions, and payment requirements to avoid penalties.
Consider a Tax Professional
Due to the complexity of international tax laws, consider consulting a tax professional who specializes in expat or digital nomad tax matters.
References
- Best VPN Service
- The Best Travel Phone Plans for Digital Nomads
- Small Business Structure: How to Choose the Right One
- Glassdoor – Virtual Assistant Salary
- Glassdoor – Online Teacher Salary
- Glassdoor – Content Writer Salary
- Glassdoor – SEO Specialist Salary
- Glassdoor – Social Media Manager Salary
- Glassdoor – Web Developer Salary
- Glassdoor – Marketing Specialist Salary
- Glassdoor – Bookkeeper Salary
- Glassdoor – Recruiter Salary
- Glassdoor – Photographer Salary
- Glassdoor – Affiliate Marketer Salary
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