Throughout the decade the number of digital nomads has successfully risen, with over 10 million people categorized as being digital nomads which is exactly why countries are trying to catch up and have begun issuing digital nomad visas. Speaking of countries, have you ever wondered which are the best countries for digital nomads? Therefore, we have over 12 countries to complete your bucket list, and it’s not your typical bucket list. We have included a budget at the end of each country, including accommodation, food, and transportation. However, it can vary depending on your lifestyle and might cost more or less than the estimated budget such as the type of accommodation, and the food you choose.
What are the best countries for digital nomads
- Norway
- Sri Lanka
- Lombok, Indonesia
- Hungary
- Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Cape Town, South Africa
- South Korea
- New Zealand
- Greece
- Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- The Caribbean
- Malta
1. Norway
Norway takes the lead in the World Happiness Index. So, it’s not surprising that its glittering fjords, crisp air, and vast mountain range combined with fast internet speed wouldn’t be tempted to move their home office straight to Norway. Moreover, there are several co-working spaces across the country where you can easily meet new people and it’s also a great opportunity to network.
Estimate budget per month: US$3,000
2. Sri Lanka
Formerly known as Ceylon, it was then changed to Sri Lanka in the year 1972. This paradise island lies within the Indian Ocean and is known for its rich biodiversity, production of cinnamon, and delicious tea! The must-see sight is the Sirigiya palace ruins, which are perched on top of 200m ruins on a high rock. Furthermore, it is surrounded by a detailed network of gardens and reservoirs. In fact, rice is one of the main components of Sri Lankan cuisine. It is usually served with fragrant curries. Also, you can also opt for vegetarian dishes all throughout the country. Moreover, most nomads would vouch that Sri Lankans are one of the most hospitable countries in the world. Therefore, you can easily make friends with the locals and they are also very keen on helping foreigners.
Overall it’s quite an inexpensive country to settle in, you can also Indulge yourself in Ayurvedic spa treatments, And good news! Apparently, the Sri Lankan government is working on a digital nomad visa to encourage travel into the country.
Estimate budget per month: US$800
3. Lombok, Indonesia
Compared to its sister island of Bali, Lombok is also an affordable location for nomads to settle in. It isn’t as crowded as Bali. Moreover, the natural wonders there are mostly untouched and in pristine condition. The internet speed is also good and attractions around the island are mostly free of charge or would not cost more than $1 to enter specific beaches, there is a huge community of ex-pats and digital nomads alike in Kuta and Senggigi as well as cute co-working spaces you can explore.
Estimated budget per month: US$800
4. Hungary
It might not be as popular as its surrounding European countries. However, Hungary has a lot to boast about. Starting with Budapest, located near the Danube river, is the perfect city for Nomads as it also has multiple public transportations to accommodate visitors coming to the cultural spots of Hungary. Head over to Debrecen and enjoy the architecture that dates back to the 19th century, Sopron on the other hand is filled with medieval architecture.
Estimate budget per month: US$1,100
5. Buenos Aires, Argentina
Argentina has a mixture of North, Latin American, and European influence this city has a vibrant nightlife and is a major cosmopolitan city in South America. Moreover, you will also have great travel opportunities to surrounding countries such as Brazil, Chile, and Uruguay. The digital nomad visa policies are also very friendly, you can extend your 90-day stay and enjoy more of its café culture.
Estimate budget per month: US$900
6. Cape Town, South Africa
As the oldest and second-largest city in southern Africa, it is rich in culture and home to the magnificent Table mountain. Even more, the beautiful country is also famous for its world-class wine trails and coastal retreats. It is also fairly inexpensive for digital nomads and filled with coffee shops to work in. if you’re an adrenaline junkie, you might want to consider kayaking, surfing, sandboarding, and even skydiving. If you’re looking to make new friends there is also a meetup application where you can select your locations and it’ll connect you to groups that are nearby.
Estimate budget per month: US$1,200
7. South Korea
Trust me when I say this country is full of the brim with unique cafes and is a shopping haven! You should definitely try Korean food such as Tteokboki, Kimbap, and raw marinated soy sauce crab, an amazing delicacy. Moreover, South Korea is also one of the best countries for digital nomads to live in. There is even quite a big community of digital nomads in Seoul, the capital of the city of South Korea and one of the best neighborhoods to settle in would be Gangnam, Itaewon, Hongdae, and Dongdaemun.
When you are in Korea don’t forget to visit Jeju Island, its beauty will leave you in awe.
Estimate budget per month: US$2,000
8. New Zealand
Famous for its picturesque landscape and indigenous Maori culture, this country is probably one of the few Covid-19 green zones in the world. Set up your base camp in Auckland which is the biggest city in the whole country. It has unique restaurants, water harbors, mountain ranges, and even rainforests. You can expect an abundance of free activities to do around the city. There, you can find beautiful beaches like Mission Bay and Takapuna, or head to the east or the west coast if you are into surfing. Splurging on Manuka honey and Trying Maori traditional food is also a must when you’re there! With those many attractions, no wonder New Zealand also made it to the list of the best countries for digital nomads.
Estimate budget per month: US$2,100
9. Greece
Planning to launch a digital nomad visa soon, Greece is a haven for tourists and nomads alike. There are multiple co-living spaces and rental apartments you can opt for, and the cost of food and groceries in Greece is relatively cheaper compared to other EU countries. Greeks also know how to party so expect dynamic nightlife, Thessaloniki, Athens, and Psiri are well-known party destinations in Greece.
Enjoy your weekends by exploring the beaches of Mykonos, Venetian forts in Corfu, as well as the iconic volcanic island of Santorini.
Estimate budget per month: US$1,300
10. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
The city of Kuala Lumpur is a colorful and vibrant city full of ex-pats and digital nomads, it is a unique blend of multiple cultures from Malays, Indians, & Chinese. If you’re into street food then this is the place for you! There is abundant street food and “Peranakan” dishes which are a mixture of Malay and Chinese cuisine. There are a bunch of cafes and co-working spaces all throughout the city. Moreover, if you’re bored of city life you can always hop on a boat or flight to Langkawi or Pangkor Island. Or, you can drive opt for a 5-hour drive to Penang island, a beautiful island donned with iconic and historical pieces.
Malaysia is also connected to Singapore by a shot toll drive. So feel free to explore Singapore during weekends.
Estimate budget per month: US$800
11. The Caribbean
Most of the island countries in the Caribbean have allowed a digital nomad visa so you can splash around the beach after work. Enjoy Barbados, Bermuda, Mauritius, Anguilla, Antique, and Barbuda. Living costs here might be a tad bit pricey in comparison to other countries but it is definitely worth the visit. You have friendly locals, amazing accommodations, and beautiful beaches.
Estimate budget per month: US$1,300
12. Malta
Malta is the next country that made it to the list of the best countries for digital nomads to live in. This island country lies in the Mediterranean sea and consists of 3 main islands. Therefore, you should definitely check out the fish market in Malta. The well-known one is Marsaxlokk fish market, which opens on Sundays you can expect to get a good bargain on the seafood there. In addition, other must-see sights are the Dingli Cliff to enjoy the sunsets, Blue Grotto, the old capital of Mdina, and the island of Gozo. there are a few Starbucks around Malta as well as coffee shops and co-working spaces you can opt for.
Estimate budget per month: US$1,300
So, have you decided where to go based on the 12 best countries for digital nomads? Now that you know what your options are, book a trip with JoinMyTrip. You can find travel buddies in our ever-growing travel community. Moreover, we offer loads of guided trips, co-working trips, road trips, safari trips, and so much more! So, sit back and relax and you can let your trip leader do the rest.