We have all heard of Chiang Mai, Thailand being one of the best places to live as a digital nomad. And there is no doubt that the Southeast Asian city is at the top of many lists as a must-see place to live and work as a digital nomad. With a strong mix of culture, food, nightlife and activities, plus a very cheap standard of living, Chiang Mai should not be overlooked.
But if you are looking for a place that’s a bit more “unknown” or off the beaten path, then maybe look into staying and working in these six cities.
Tbilisi, Georgia
With a basic apartment costing just over $400, it is easy spend a couple weeks, or months, in the capital city of the Eastern European country of Georgia. Sitting on the banks of the Kra River, the largest city in the country (home to 1.5 million people) is a cultural hub and a crossroads of many different ethnicities.
In the words of one National Geographic writer, “Riotous and anarchic, the capital of Georgia is anything but organized…Despite this — maybe even because of it — this city is one of the best, most strikingly original travel destinations in Europe or Asia, if not the world.” (National Geographic)
The country is also very digital nomad friendly. A new law was recently passed, which allows citizens from many countries to live in the country visa-free for an entire year. Similarly, it is really cheap to live there. Groceries and other necessities are similarly inexpensive (usually a meal in an average cafe costs around $12–15).
Thessaloniki, Greece
While the country as a whole is relatively inexpensive, the town of Thessaloniki is one of the best places to get the most bang for your buck — plus it is drop dead gorgeous. This medium sized town that sits along the coast(population: 390,000 people), has a lot to offer. It has been called one of the prettiest cities in Greece — which is quite an honor since the country is also home to the very photogenic and beautiful city of Santorini.
Called the second city of Greece, it is a mecca for good food, art, culture and history. It also is pretty cheap. The average cost of living, according to the site The Nomad List, is roughly $1,977 a month, with an average apartment costing $338 and dinner being just under $8. And if you are looking to get away from the city, there are many beaches to choose from, including the ones on the Chalkidiki Peninsula, which are often considered some of the best in the region.
Medellin, Colombia
As one of the biggest digital nomad hubs in all of Latin America, Medellin is the most well-known location on this list. But even though it is quickly growing a positive reputation, it is still relatively off the radar for many digital nomads. The city is a thriving metropolis with a population near four million people, and due to this, it is a cultural hotspot. Similarly, there is already a large and thriving digital nomad community set up, making it easy to meet like-minded people and bounce questions and ideas off one another.
With good internet, stellar weather, and a lots of activities and sites in and around the city, Medellin is a top choice for anyone wanting to spend some time in Latin America. The cost of living is low — roughly $1,346 a month, with an apartment setting you back only $476 a month and dinner costing an average of $5.86.
Vilnius, Lithuania
With strong internet, many cute cafes, and plenty of things to do in and around the city, it is no wonder Vilnius is quickly becoming a top digital nomad location. While the cost of living is a bit higher than other places on this list — coming in at just over $2,000 a month — the amenities seem to make up for it.
With the fastest public Wifi in the world, it is easy to get work done from anywhere within the city. There is also a growing number of co-working spaces and digital nomad groups — perfect for when you want to get some work done and bounce ideas of others. Vilnius is also a hotspot for start-ups, and the act of breaking out on your own is highly supported. And when you finish your work, don’t worry, there is lots of action to be had. Including, being close to beautiful forests, large lakes and Baltic Sea beaches.
Tarifa, Spain
Mixing work and play is easy in the charming town of Tarifa on the coast of Spain. With low prices and easy access to other places — including being only 14 km from Africa, this cute seaside town is the perfect place to escape to if you are feeling a bit tired or overwhelmed with big cities.
Considered one of the kite-surfing capitals of the world, Tarifa is top destination for tourists — though it somehow still keeps its laid back, seaside vibe. And if you aren’t into kitesurfing, don’t worry, there are still plenty of other outdoor activities to take part in, including mountain biking, diving, surfing and climbing. With good weather year round, there is no excuse when it comes to exploring the nearby areas, which include national parks and popular cities like Granada, Seville and Cadiz.
But once you are ready to settle in for some work — you will be happily surprised to find strong internet, lots of good cafes and even some spots along the beach that cater to the digital nomad set-up (strong Wifi, great views, and plenty of coffee).
Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan
It is likely that you have never heard of Bishkek, and if you have, it is even more unlikely that you’ve considered traveling and working there. But you would be pleasantly surprised if you did, since this town is a great place to stop off for a couple days or weeks and get some work done.
With low cost of living, ringing in at a very manageable monthly cost of $983, along with lots of fun things to do in and around the city, including visiting the nearby Ala Archa National Park, Bishkek is quickly becoming one of the most comfortable places in the region for digital nomads.