9 Cheap Places for Digital Nomads In 2024: Travel And Work Cheaper!
As an affiliate, we may earn via purchases from links in this post at no cost to you.
Have you ever dreamed of working remotely in some of the most beautiful places on Earth without breaking the bank? In 2024, the digital nomad lifestyle is more accessible than ever.
Picture starting your morning in a Lisbon café or wrapping up work in Bali just in time to catch a sunset by the sea. Trust me, it’s as amazing as it sounds—and you don’t need a huge budget to make it happen.
I’ve spent time exploring a few of these places myself and found some great, affordable spots where you can live, work, and enjoy new cultures. From vibrant cities to tranquil beaches, these destinations will let you have it all—without overspending.
Let’s dive into the best cheap places for digital nomads in 2024!
What Does “Affordable” Really Mean for Digital Nomads?
When I say “affordable,” I don’t mean scraping by on the cheapest possible options. The goal is to find a place where you can live comfortably—enough space, good food, reliable Wi-Fi—and still have money left over for a few fun extras. After all, part of the digital nomad life is enjoying your surroundings, right?
In most places, your biggest expenses will be rent, food, transportation, and, of course, internet. The good news? Many countries are now offering digital nomad visas, making it even easier to stay longer without worrying about constantly renewing your tourist visa.
Now, let’s get into some of the best, budget-friendly spots where you can live your nomad dreams.
Asia – The Eastern Haven for Budget Nomads
Chiang Mai, Thailand: A Southeast Asian Gem for Digital Nomads
Chiang Mai has been a digital nomad hotspot for years, and for good reason. I spent a couple of months there, and it felt like the perfect mix of affordability and comfort.
Affordable Cost of Living
Everything from rent to meals in Chiang Mai is surprisingly affordable. I found a cozy little apartment for less than what I’d usually spend on groceries back home, and the street food—don’t even get me started. Pad Thai for a dollar? Yes, please.
Vibrant Co-Working Spaces
Chiang Mai is filled with co-working spaces. I used to split my time between a bustling café and a quieter workspace called Punspace. These spots are full of people from all over the world, and I loved the mix of cultures and ideas. The Wi-Fi is always reliable, which is key when you’re working remotely.
A Thriving Digital Nomad Community
The best part of Chiang Mai? The community. It’s so easy to meet people who are also living the remote work lifestyle. There are weekly meet-ups, and I’ve made friends that I still keep in touch with years later. If you’re looking for a place to feel at home quickly, this is it.
Bali, Indonesia: A Digital Nomad Destination By The Sea
Ah, Bali. I still think about the calm mornings, working from a beachfront café as the waves rolled in. It’s no wonder Bali is a dream destination for so many.
Affordable Luxury Living
In Bali, you can live in a stunning villa with a pool for much less than you’d imagine. I rented a small place just steps away from the beach, and I felt like I was living in a postcard. The cost of living is more than reasonable, especially when you factor in how beautiful the surroundings are.
Cultural Experiences on a Budget
Beyond the beaches, Bali offers so much culture. I spent afternoons exploring temples or attending traditional dance performances, and most of it was free or very affordable. You don’t need to spend a lot to immerse yourself in the local culture.
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam: A Bustling Hub for Digital Nomads
If big city energy is what you’re after, Ho Chi Minh City (or Saigon) is a great choice. When I was there, I was struck by how vibrant the city felt—there’s always something happening.
City Life with Low Expenses
The cost of living in Ho Chi Minh City is incredibly low for such a large city. I remember grabbing pho on the street for just a few dollars, and it was some of the best food I’ve had. Apartments are affordable, and transportation is cheap, especially if you’re comfortable using motorbike taxis.
Networking Opportunities in a Growing Economy
Ho Chi Minh City is buzzing with opportunities, especially if you’re in tech or entrepreneurship. The co-working spaces are fantastic, and I met plenty of like-minded remote workers who were also looking to grow their businesses.
Europe – Old World Charm at New Age Prices
Lisbon, Portugal: A Creative and Tech Hub in Western Europe
I spent a few weeks in Lisbon, and it instantly became one of my favorite European cities. It’s beautiful, historic, and modern all at once.
A Hub for Creatives and Tech
Lisbon has a thriving tech and creative scene. You’ll find plenty of co-working spaces, and the city’s charm makes it a great place to spark creativity. I remember working from a rooftop café overlooking the river—it’s hard to beat that kind of inspiration.
Cost-Effective Lifestyle in a European Context
Lisbon is one of the more affordable capitals in Western Europe. Rent is reasonable, especially if you stay outside the central tourist areas. The food, especially seafood, is fresh and affordable, and the public transportation is easy to navigate.
Krakow, Poland: A Historic Jewel in Eastern Europe
Krakow was a pleasant surprise when I visited. It’s a city full of history, yet it’s incredibly affordable compared to other European destinations.
Living Cheaply in a Historical Setting
I stayed in a beautiful old part of the city, Kazimierz, and the rent was shockingly low. There’s something magical about walking through Krakow’s medieval streets, knowing you’re living in a place with so much history while still keeping your costs down.
Strong Expat and Nomad Communities
Krakow has a growing expat community, and it’s easy to meet people. There are plenty of co-working spaces and events for remote workers, so it’s not hard to feel connected.
Tbilisi, Georgia: A Hidden Gem at the Crossroads of Europe and Asia
I haven’t made it to Tbilisi yet, but every nomad I’ve met who has been there raves about it. It’s quickly becoming one of the top choices for digital nomads, and I can see why.
Extremely Welcoming Visa Policies and Low Living Costs
Georgia has some of the most relaxed visa policies around—many nationalities can stay for up to a year without any paperwork headaches. From what I’ve heard, the cost of living is incredibly low, with great food and cheap rent, all in a city that blends European and Asian influences.
Latin America – Tropical Paradises on a Dime
Medellin, Colombia: The City of Eternal Spring in the Heart of South America
Medellin has transformed into a favorite spot for digital nomads, and I’ve heard nothing but good things about the city.
Low Cost of Living
Medellin is known for its perfect year-round weather and affordable lifestyle. Rent, food, and transportation are all very budget-friendly, and the digital nomad community is growing. Whether you’re into city life or nearby nature, Medellin offers the best of both worlds.
Safety and the Digital Nomad Scene
Medellin has come a long way in terms of safety. It’s now one of the top destinations in South America for remote workers, with a welcoming community and great infrastructure for living and working.
Mexico City, Mexico: A Metropolitan Experience on a Modest Budget
Mexico City is one of the most exciting places I’ve ever visited. The city is full of life and offers an incredible mix of history, culture, and affordability.
Cultural Richness and Affordability
Mexico City has everything—museums, art, food, and nightlife—all at a fraction of the cost you’d expect in such a large city. I remember paying just a couple of dollars for the most incredible tacos, and rent in the city is much more affordable than you’d think for such a massive metropolis.
Antigua, Guatemala: Small-Town Charm in One of the Cheapest Places for Digital Nomads
Antigua is a gem for digital nomads looking for a slower pace of life. Surrounded by volcanoes and colonial architecture, it offers a peaceful, charming environment.
Small-Town Charm with All the Amenities
Antigua has everything you need as a digital nomad—affordable housing, reliable internet, and plenty of cafés to work from. It’s the kind of place where you can unwind, enjoy the beauty of nature, and still get your work done.
Tips for Living Cheaply as a Digital Nomad
Living as a digital nomad doesn’t mean you have to compromise on quality of life. Here are a few tips I’ve picked up along the way:
Finding Affordable Accommodation
Look into co-living spaces or short-term rentals on platforms like Airbnb. When I stayed in Bali, I found that negotiating long-term stays often got me a better deal.
Budgeting for Food
Cooking at home can save you money, but in places like Southeast Asia, eating out can be just as affordable. In Chiang Mai, I could eat out every day without breaking the bank.
Transportation Hacks
Public transport and walking are your best friends. In Ho Chi Minh City, I used motorbike taxis all the time—they were fast and incredibly cheap.
Free or Low-Cost Entertainment
Look for local activities that don’t cost much. I used to love wandering the streets of Lisbon or hiking in Bali—all free ways to enjoy your surroundings.
Health Insurance and Emergency Funds
Always have travel insurance such as SafetyWing. Many cover nomads worldwide at reasonable prices. Also, always have a little extra set aside for emergencies—it’ll give you peace of mind when you’re on the move.
Cheap Places For Digital Nomads: The Last Word
So, there you have it—some of the best, most affordable places for digital nomads in 2024. Each destination has its own unique charm, but they all offer the same thing: a great quality of life at a low cost. Whether you want to explore a vibrant city or relax by the beach, you’re sure to find a place that fits your lifestyle and budget.
Where will you head next? Wherever it is, I can assure you the journey is just as rewarding as the destination. Happy travels!
FAQs
How much money do I need to live as a digital nomad?
It depends on where you go, but generally speaking, you can live comfortably in many digital nomad hotspots for around $800 to $2,500 a month.
In places like Bali or Chiang Mai, for example, your rent, food, and everyday expenses can be incredibly low. Europe will be a bit pricier, but cities like Lisbon and Krakow still offer great value compared to other Western capitals.
How do I stay connected to work while traveling?
Reliable internet is a must! When looking for places to stay, always double-check that they offer good Wi-Fi. Co-working spaces are also great options. In cities like Ho Chi Minh and Medellin, you’ll find plenty of places specifically designed for remote workers with fast internet and quiet spaces to get work done.
What’s the best way to find affordable accommodation as a digital nomad?
You can start with platforms like Airbnb, Booking.com, or local short-term rental sites. In many places, you can negotiate a better price for longer stays.
Co-living spaces are also becoming popular and often include additional perks like Wi-Fi, housekeeping, and even social events. When I stayed in Bali, I found that staying longer got me better rates at villas and guesthouses.
Do I need special visas to be a digital nomad?
Yes, and it depends on the country. Many places now offer special digital nomad visas that let you stay for extended periods.
Georgia, for example, has one of the most flexible visa policies, allowing many nationalities to stay for up to a year without any paperwork headaches. Portugal also offers a remote work visa, which is great if you’re thinking about Europe.
How do I meet other digital nomads?
It’s easier than you might think! Co-working spaces and local meet-ups are excellent places to start. Most major digital nomad hubs have a thriving community, with events and social gatherings happening regularly. In Chiang Mai, I used to attend weekly meet-ups and found it was a great way to meet new people and share experiences.
