A few years ago, I took the leap—left the traditional office behind, packed my bags, and set out to build a life on the move.
Since then, I’ve worked from bustling cafés in Southeast Asia, sun-soaked coworking spaces in Europe, and beachside hammocks (which, spoiler: are terrible for productivity).
Being a digital nomad isn’t just about working remotely—it’s about finding the right places to live, work, and thrive. Some cities make it easy, offering fast Wi-Fi, a strong community, and an affordable cost of living.
Others? Not so much.
In 2025, the landscape for digital nomads is better than ever, with more visa options, improved infrastructure, and new hubs emerging around the world. So, where should you go next?
Well, I’ve rounded up what I think are five of the best places to call home—whether for a few months or a few years.
Let’s dive in.
1. Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon has become a top European remote-work hub, offering an attractive balance of cost and lifestyle.
It remains relatively affordable for Western Europe (around $800 per month excluding rent) and boasts some very decent internet speeds (fixed broadband ~175 Mbps download speeds on average).
The city’s thriving startup ecosystem and expat scene also mean plenty of coworking spaces and networking events.
Last but not least, with 300+ sunny days a year and beaches a short ride away, Lisbon delivers on climate and leisure.
2. Chiang Mai, Thailand
Long a classic in the nomad circuit, Chiang Mai remains a favorite for budget-conscious remote workers. Living costs are exceedingly low–at around 1,000 USD monthly.
Despite its affordability, Thailand provides reliable connectivity; according to SpeedTest, median speeds exceed 200mbps.
A large, tight-knit nomad community has developed here over the years, supported by numerous coworking spaces and meetups. The city offers an appealing mix of traditional culture and modern amenities, and its cooler, mountainous climate is more comfortable than other Thai cities.
After work, nomads enjoy everything from night markets and temples to nearby jungle treks.
Safety is generally very good, and Thailand recently introduced a “Destination Thailand” remote work visa allowing stays up to 6 months per entry – further cementing Chiang Mai’s status as a remote work hub.
3. Canggu (Bali), Indonesia
Bali has been a digital nomad magnet for years, and Canggu is its current hotspot.
This surf-town-turned-tech hub offers a tropical lifestyle at a reasonable cost – about 2,000 USD.
There are countless networking events, from startup meetups to surf outings, fostering connections among the many expats on the island. The climate is warm year-round (with a wet and dry season), and there’s no shortage of leisure activities, from yoga retreats to sunset beach parties.
Bali is also known for being welcoming and relatively safe for foreigners, with a moderate crime rate and friendly locals.
Notably, Indonesia is rolling out a new 5-year digital nomad visa that would allow remote workers to live in Bali tax-free on foreign income – a game-changer making an extended stay much easier.
Overall, Canggu seems to hit the sweet spot for those seeking a laid-back work-life balance in paradise.
4. Tbilisi, Georgia
Tbilisi is an up-and-coming gem for digital nomads, blending Old World charm with modern conveniences.
The city is also budget-friendly; expats report that the cost of living here is much lower than other Western cities. In one 2025 ranking, Tbilisi was noted for its low costs (~$2,045/month) relative to other capitals
Internet connectivity is excellent – Georgia has some of the fastest internet on this list. Average mobile internet speeds in Tbilisi are a whopping 231 Mbps. This ensures smooth Zoom calls and cloud work!
Culturally, Tbilisi offers a unique blend of European and Asian influences – cobblestone streets, colorful wooden balconies, and a famous wine and café culture that make for inspiring work breaks.
Safety and hospitality are strong points too: Georgia consistently ranks high for personal safety and low crime. For remote workers seeking a culturally rich, low-hassle, and affordable base, Tbilisi is a top contender.
5. Mexico City, Mexico
Mexico City has quickly become a North American favorite for digital nomads seeking big-city amenities at a reasonable cost.
Home to a thriving community of remote workers, the city is known for its lively coworking scene, networking events, and a rich cultural backdrop from art galleries to Aztec history.
Living expenses are quite affordable given the city’s size and offerings – around $1,800 USD per month is a typical budget for a comfortable life in Mexico City.
Internet speeds aren’t bad with average download speeds of 94 Mbps.
Final words
The world is more remote-work-friendly than ever, and in 2025, digital nomads have some incredible options.
Whether you’re looking for European charm, Southeast Asian affordability, or a tropical paradise, these five destinations offer the perfect mix of work, community, and adventure.
Of course, the best place for you depends on your priorities—cost, culture, climate, or connectivity. But no matter where you go, one thing’s for sure: the freedom to work from anywhere is a game-changer.
So, where’s your next stop?
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