Exploring the cheapest digital nomad destinations has been a core part of my journey over the past three years. Finding affordable cities lets you enjoy incredible experiences without blowing your budget while staying productive in inspiring environments. It also helps you travel further and longer.
From Southeast Asia to Eastern Europe, here are ten affordable cities perfect for digital nomads. Whether you’re looking for sandy beaches, rich history, or motivating coworking spaces, there’s something here for everyone.
Hua Hin, Thailand
Hua Hin might not have the fame of Bangkok or Chiang Mai but it is one of the cheapest digital nomad destinations. I spent a month here in an Airbnb and loved the modern infrastructure, affordability, and relaxing nature. It led to an excellent, dream-like work-life balance.
Longer-term apartments start at $250 per month, and delicious local meals cost around $2–$3, making it easy to stick to a budget. There are not too many dedicated coworking spaces but I found lots of great spots and loved working from a beachside cafe or bar with decent WiFi.
Its beautiful coastline and nearby national parks offer plenty of opportunities to unwind. Hua Hin is a great choice as an under-the-radar, affordable option for digital nomads.
Shkodër, Albania
Nestled on the shores of Lake Skadar, this Albanian city is both breathtaking and budget-friendly. Known for its stunning landscapes and low cost of living, Shkodër is becoming a hotspot for digital nomads. During my time in Albania, I was amazed by the warmth of the locals and the region’s natural beauty.
With accommodations starting at $200 per month, you’ll have money left over to explore its historic landmarks, and its numerous UNESCO World Heritage sites, or take a day trip to nearby mountains. Good WiFi is everywhere, but affordable coworking spaces are popping up too, making it easy to stay connected.
Want to learn more about Albania? Check out my guide to the Best Places in Albania for some inspiration.
San José, Costa Rica
San José is an underrated but one of the cheapest digital nomad destinations I have visited. I loved my time in Costa Rica, mixing an amazing house sitting placement in Santa Teresa with affordable rentals in San Jose and volunteering through Workaway all over the country.
Apartments in the capital start at $550 monthly, and coworking spaces like Costa Rica Workstation are perfect for remote work. On weekends, you can explore Costa Rica’s famous beaches or rainforests – all within a few hours’ drive and well-connected by reliable and affordable buses.
For tips on affordable travel and Workaway experiences, check out my guide: Using Workaway to Travel.
Phu Quoc, Vietnam
Phu Quoc offers a tropical escape that’s surprisingly affordable for digital nomads. I house-sat here for three weeks, enjoying its pristine beaches and quiet atmosphere. The island’s laid-back vibe is very different from much of Vietnam and makes it an ideal spot for work and relaxation.
Budget apartments and bungalows cost around $300–$400 per month, and meals from local markets are just $1–$3. While coworking spaces are less common, many of the larger resorts have business centers that are available to use even if you’re not staying at the hotel.
We discovered this little hack while searching for a gym. We were able to pay the hotel across the road a daily fee of around $6pp for full use of their facilities including pools, gym, spa, and business center. Want to know more? Then read House Sitting in Phu Quoc for tips on making the most of your stay.
Budapest, Hungary
Budapest is one of Europe’s most stunning and affordable capitals, perfect for digital nomads, and one of my favorite places to visit. I spent two months here, combining remote work with a Workaway teaching placement at a Montessori preschool, but have been back for numerous mini-breaks.
Apartments in the city start at $450 per month, while dining and transportation are equally budget-friendly. The city’s cafe culture and reliable coworking spaces, like Impact Hub, make it an excellent base for fun and productivity. It’s a fantastic option if you’re looking for the cheapest digital nomad destinations.
I especially loved how accessible Budapest is for visitors. During my stay, I hosted three different groups of friends and family visiting Budapest for the first time. They all loved it! Click here for my top 10 Budapest sights and activities.
Bali, Indonesia
Bali has long been a digital nomad hotspot, and it’s not hard to see why. I stayed for two months, using a rented apartment in Kuta Beach as a base to explore the island’s stunning destinations, like Canggu and Ubud.
Living costs are low, with meals at Warungs costing just $2–$4. Bali’s coworking scene is thriving, with every bar and cafe offering decent WiFi, affordable coffee and refreshments, and beautiful inspiring spots to call your office for the day.
Check out my Bali Travel Guide for tips on making the most of this tropical paradise.
Bansko, Bulgaria
Bansko is quickly earning a reputation as one of Europe’s most affordable digital nomad destinations. Nestled in the Pirin Mountains, it offers a wonderful mix of outdoor adventure and excellent work infrastructure.
Furthermore, living costs are incredibly low, with apartments, coworking, and food totaling under $600 per month. Its numerous coworking spaces, like Coworking Bansko, have a strong community vibe, making it easy to network with other remote workers.
Whether you’re skiing in winter or hiking in summer, Bansko offers an active lifestyle for digital nomads seeking balance.
Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon is an incredible city offering sunny weather, affordable living, and a fantastic digital nomad community. Its colorful neighborhoods and indulgent foodie scene make it a top choice for remote workers from around the world.
Portugal’s D7 visa is a game-changer for remote workers. With proof of around $9,000 annual passive income, you can apply for residency and enjoy a 2-year stay in this beautiful city. Beyond this, permanent residency in Europe is a distinct possibility.
Lisbon’s coworking spaces, beaches, and cultural richness make it one of Europe’s best options for digital nomads.
Podgorica, Montenegro
Montenegro’s capital is an underrated gem for digital nomads. I loved Podgorica, soaking in its laid-back vibe and exploring the stunning coastline and mountains just a short drive away. We mixed a 2-month Workaway posting with lots of exploring via reliable buses and affordable taxi rides.
Apartments start at $400 monthly, and the city has excellent WiFi and coworking facilities. The wine scene is surprisingly good, and the bars and cafe culture make it an easy city to relax in after a productive workday.
Montenegro’s small size means you can explore its incredible diversity – from chilling on the beaches of Budva to skiing on the slopes of Kolasin – all within a few hours.
Mexico City, Mexico
Mexico City’s cultural richness and affordability make it a fantastic destination for digital nomads. I spent a few weeks here experiencing this mega city in its entirety, hopping back to the USA from Costa Rica. The diverse neighborhoods, affordability, and incredible food scene blew me away.
I booked a pleasant but very cheap Airbnb apartment just outside of the CBD but apartments in central areas like La Condesa or Roma start at $550, while meals range from $2 street tacos to affordable fine dining. The city’s coworking options, like WeWork and Coffice, are top-notch and have low daily rates.
Although the traffic can be overwhelming, Mexico City’s energy and opportunities make it worth the adventure. Plus an efficient and cheap public transport system makes getting around easier and quicker for those without a car.
Conclusion
Exploring the cheapest digital nomad destinations opens doors to a fulfilling lifestyle without breaking the bank. Whether you’re drawn to the beaches of Southeast Asia, the charm of Eastern Europe, or the colorful cities of Latin America, there’s an affordable destination waiting for you.
Pack your bags, embrace the adventure, and discover how far your budget can take you. To save even more on your digital nomad budget check out The Top Countries Looking for House Sitters Right Now.
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