Cheap Destinations Digital Nomads Should Consider

Some of the favorites among digital nomads are the cheapest places where you can actually save money while living in some of the world’s most beautiful destinations.

For over five years, I have been living and working remotely abroad and have successfully kept my expenses lower than if I had stayed in Canada.

With remote work, you not only have the freedom to reside anywhere you desire, but you also have the opportunity to enjoy a significantly improved lifestyle compared to your home country, all while saving money and exploring different parts of the world!

To inspire your next move, here are the least expensive digital nomad destinations.

Ko Lanta, Thailand

Ko Lanta is renowned for being one of Thailand’s most beautiful islands due to its pristine beaches, rainforests, and world-famous diving and snorkeling opportunities.

In comparison to Chiang Mai, which is often considered one of the best places for digital nomads, Ko Lanta provides a tranquil and genuine Thai experience, with significantly lower levels of pollution, addressing two common concerns expressed by digital nomads in Chiang Mai.

Furthermore, Ko Lanta offers an astonishingly affordable cost for nomads, which amounts to only $360.

Thailand provides a tourist visa that enables two entries, with each entry allowing a stay of 60 days, which can be extended to 90 days. Therefore, there is a total allowance of 180 days. Furthermore, the delectable Thai cuisine on Ko Lanta adds to its appeal for me.

Ubud, Indonesia

The cost for digital nomads in Ubud is only $452, reflecting a low expense.

There exists a highly thriving community of digital nomads that provides co-working spaces and networking opportunities, not to mention the opportunity to make acquaintances who comprehend the lifestyle.

The area is famous for its amiable locals, stunning landscapes, and an exceptional vegetarian dining scene.

If you are a citizen of the US, UK, or Canada, you have the option to obtain a 30-day tourist visa when you arrive in the country. This visa can be prolonged by an extra 30 days on one occasion. However, if you plan to stay for a longer duration, it is necessary to apply for the visa prior to your arrival.

Da Lat, Vietnam

In contrast to Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, which are popular destinations for digital nomads in Vietnam, Da Lat has the lowest crime rate and nomad cost.

Da Lat differentiates itself from numerous other Vietnamese destinations due to its temperate climate, in contrast to the tropical climate present elsewhere. Often referred to as “The City of Eternal Spring,” the city’s stunning weather contributes to its abundant natural beauty.

The architecture of Da Lat is yet another notable feature.

Da Lat earned its other nickname, “Little Paris,” due to the presence of French settlers in the past, who imparted a European ambiance to the area.

The cost to stay in Da Lat for a nomad is only $600. The visa requirements for Vietnam tend to change frequently, but at present, tourist visas are being issued for visits lasting between 30 to 90 days.

Siem Reap, Cambodia

Siem Reap seems to be becoming popular among digital nomads due to two factors: the visa process is simple (allowing 30 days upon arrival, with the option to extend for another 30 days) and the cost for nomads is low, at $690.

Siem Reap boasts co-working spaces and cafes that offer reasonably fast WiFi connections, and in close proximity lie the renowned temples of Angkor Wat.

Belgrade, Serbia

Digital nomads often overlook Serbia, but those who have worked in Belgrade have reported positive experiences, praising the friendly locals and reliable internet.

Belgrade, with a nomad cost of $750, is the most affordable city in Europe on the list.

What is great is that US, UK, and Australian citizens are not required to have a visa for visits up to 90 days.

Luang Prabang, Laos

Luang Prabang, the capital city of Laos, is known for being one of the most affordable cities for digital nomads in Asia. Comparatively, it is even more budget-friendly than Chiang Mai.

The cost of meals at restaurants is between $2-3, while at the nightly market it is less than $1. The night market is open every night. I paid $20 per night for my hotel stay, but monthly rentals are available for much cheaper. It is possible to live comfortably in this place with a monthly budget of $1000.

On a day trip, you have the opportunity to visit one of the most stunning waterfalls in Southeast Asia, in Luang Prabang – a beautiful city situated on the Mekong River and surrounded by mountains.

The nomad community in Laos is smaller compared to other countries in Southeast Asia, yet it exists to some extent.

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Ho Chin Minh has been a favored destination among expats teaching English for a considerable amount of time. Now, numerous remote workers are residing in the city to relish its affordable living expenses in addition to its remarkable cuisine, rich culture, vibrant nightlife, and highly efficient WiFi.

Ho Chi Minh, previously known as Saigon, offers the necessary infrastructure for a comfortable lifestyle. If you are brave enough to rent a motorbike, this is an inexpensive means to travel and discover different regions of Vietnam.

Living in Vietnam offers the opportunity to enjoy the amazing street food, which is considered among the finest options available. Notably, one can be delighted to savor a satisfying meal for a mere $1-2. By residing in Ho Chi Minh, it becomes feasible to maintain a comfortable way of life with an expenditure slightly exceeding $1000 per month.

One major drawback of residing in Vietnam is the limited duration of a tourist visa, which is only valid for 30 days. Consequently, it is essential to consider the cost of visa runs within your financial plan.

Medellin, Colombia

Medellin, known as the city of eternal spring, is highly recommended for digital nomads in South America. Although I have only experienced Medellin as a backpacker, I have a strong desire to revisit the city and reside there as a digital nomad due to its vibrant nightlife.

Nomalist states that the typical monthly cost of living for a nomad exceeds $1500.

In addition to a vibrant digital nomad community, affordable living expenses, and exceptional climate, Medellin provides an excellent way of life boasting top-notch dining establishments and a vibrant nightlife. The majority of nomads choose to reside in the El Poblado area, which is home to various coliving and coworking spaces.

If you are a tourist from Canada, the United States, or the European Union, you are allowed to remain in the country for a period of 90 days without requiring a visa. Subsequently, you have the option to depart the country and re-enter, allowing for an additional 90-day stay, with a maximum duration of 180 days within a single year.

Bansko, Bulgaria

Bansko, a small mountain town in Bulgaria, has transformed into a popular destination for nomads due to its breathtaking mountain landscapes and abundance of outdoor activities throughout the year. During the summer, visitors have the opportunity to ascend to the highest summit and in winter, they can enjoy skiing down the mountains.

Bansko is a highly affordable destination, where you can rent basic apartments for as low as 150 euros a month during the summer. Additionally, even booking a last-minute hotel this summer only cost me 20 euros per night. This is another place where you can comfortably live for $1000/month or less. A recommended time to visit Bansko is at the end of June for Bansko Nomad Fest, which brings together 500+ digital nomads to celebrate the location-independent lifestyle.

Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon, once included in all lists of the most affordable places for digital nomads in Portugal, has unfortunately seen a significant increase in prices due to its popularity. Nevertheless, it still provides a high quality of life in comparison to other Western European cities, considering the cost.

After relocating to Lisbon, I quickly comprehended why numerous individuals claim it is the ultimate destination for digital nomads. This vibrant city offers charming cafes for work, pleasant winters compared to other European locations, and a captivating atmosphere.

Due to a significant increase in apartment rentals, the cost of living in Lisbon is no longer as inexpensive as it once was. However, in 2022, I managed to live comfortably with an approximate monthly budget of $2000.

If you choose to stay at a coliving space, it will increase your expenditures (I personally paid 900 euros per month). However, the costs for food and transportation are reasonably priced. Furthermore, if you opt for residency, the taxes are highly advantageous.

Lisbon is a city of relatively small size, where walking around the hilly streets and stopping to enjoy the beautiful viewpoints (miradouros) is considered one of the best activities. Additionally, there are numerous exquisite locations in Portugal that can be visited as day trips from Lisbon.