10 Most Affordable Countries for Digital Nomads in 2023

Are you dreaming of a life where you can work remotely from anywhere in the world? Imagine sipping your morning coffee on a white sandy beach or exploring vibrant cities while earning a living. Well, it’s time to turn that dream into reality!

The pandemic has opened up new possibilities for digital nomads, and several countries offer affordable living and incredible experiences for remote workers like yourself.

Like a treasure trove waiting to be discovered, these countries beckon with their stunning landscapes, affordable housing options, and fast internet speeds. Each destination has its unique allure, from the sun-soaked shores of Costa Rica and Bali to the historic charm of Malta and Greece. And the best part? These countries have introduced digital nomad visas to attract remote workers like yourself.

But what exactly is a digital nomad visa? Is it easy to become one? How do digital nomads make money? Don’t worry – we’ve got you covered. This article will delve into all these questions as we explore the ten most affordable countries for digital nomads.

So pack your bags and get ready for an adventure unlike any other!

Key Takeaways

Costa Rica offers tax-free living and has a minimum monthly income requirement of $3,000 for individuals and $4,000 for families.
Malta has nationwide 5G coverage, over 400 free public wifi spots, and a minimum monthly income requirement of $2,933 (€2,700).
Greece has affordable housing, low costs for food, shopping, and transportation, and a minimum monthly income requirement of $3,868 (€3,500).
Mexico has affordable flights to the US, a median broadband speed of 46 Mbps, and a minimum monthly income requirement of $2,600.

What Is a Digital Nomad Visa?

Digital nomad visas are legal pathways allowing remote workers to live and work in foreign countries, immersing themselves in new cultures while earning a living.

If you’re looking for the cheapest places to live as a digital nomad, considering countries with digital nomad visas is a great idea.

When choosing a digital nomad destination, the cost of living is an important factor to consider. Some countries offer an affordable cost of living, making them ideal for budget-conscious remote workers. These countries provide opportunities to experience new cultures without breaking the bank.

Among the cheapest countries for digital nomads, Portugal stands out as one of the top choices. With its welcoming people and beautiful beaches, Portugal offers an affordable and outstanding work-life balance. Greece is another option with low food, shopping, and transportation costs.

Mexico also ranks high on the list of affordable destinations for digital nomads. It has a reasonable cost of living and offers convenient flights to the United States and reliable internet speeds. Costa Rica provides tax-free living for remote workers and offers an attractive lifestyle at an affordable price.

So, if you’re looking for the cheapest places for digital nomads to live, consider exploring these destinations that offer low living costs and opportunities to immerse yourself in new cultures while enjoying your remote work lifestyle.

Is It Easy To Be a Digital Nomad?

Being a remote worker and living abroad can feel like embarking on an exhilarating journey, with new challenges and opportunities awaiting you at every turn. If you’re considering becoming a digital nomad, you may wonder if it’s easy to transition.

The good news is that many countries make it relatively simple for remote workers to live and work legally. Here are four of the cheapest places for digital nomads:

Bali, Indonesia: With its stunning beaches and fast internet speeds, Bali has become a popular destination for digital nomads. You can stay up to 60 days with a B211a visa, which can be renewed twice for six months.
Mexico: Known for its affordable cost of living and proximity to the US, Mexico offers great opportunities for remote workers. With a minimum monthly income requirement of $2,600, it’s one of the cheapest options.
Portugal: Recently launching a digital nomad visa program, Portugal welcomes remote workers with open arms. It offers beautiful beaches, affordable living costs, and a great work-life balance.
Croatia: This country offers a temporary visa for digital nomads, allowing stays for up to 1 year. Croatia is an attractive destination with dedicated villages for remote workers and affordable housing options.

These countries provide affordable, vibrant digital nomad communities and infrastructure tailored towards remote work. So pack your bags and get ready to explore these incredible destinations while continuing to work remotely!

How Do Digital Nomads Make Money?

Ready to embark on your digital nomad life? Wondering how you can sustain yourself financially while living and working abroad? The good news is that there are plenty of opportunities for digital nomads to make money while exploring the world.

One of the key advantages of being a digital nomad is that you can work remotely for clients or companies from anywhere in the world. This means that you have access to a global job market and can take advantage of different cost of living levels in various countries.

Several options are available if you’re looking for cheap places to live as a digital nomad. Countries in Southeast Asia, such as Bali, Indonesia, Thailand, and Vietnam, offer affordable living costs and vibrant digital nomad communities. These destinations not only provide low-cost accommodation but also boast fast internet speeds.

In addition to Southeast Asia, Africa has become an attractive destination for digital nomads seeking affordability. Countries like Kenya, South Africa, and Morocco offer a mix of cultural experiences and relatively low living expenses.

Alternatively, if you prefer closer proximity to North America, Colombia is another excellent option with its affordable cities like Medellin and Bogota.

Remember that it’s essential to research each country’s remote work visa requirements before making any decisions. By choosing one of these cheapest destinations for digital nomads, you can experience new cultures while maintaining financial stability on your exciting journey as a digital nomad.

10 Cheapest Places for Digital Nomads

If you’re looking for the cheapest places to live and work as a digital nomad, Malta, Greece, Croatia, St Lucia, Mexico, Portugal, Spain, Brazil, Costa Rica, and Indonesia (specifically Bali) are worth considering.

In Malta, you’ll find a welcoming community and a low cost of living.

Greece offers stunning landscapes and a chance to earn income from local companies.

Croatia even has a dedicated village for remote workers, making it easy to connect with like-minded individuals.

One of the best things about St Lucia is the quick tourist visa processing.

Mexico offers affordable living costs and convenient flights to the US, while Portugal boasts beautiful beaches and a laid-back lifestyle.

Spain provides low tax rates and opportunities in various fields, while Brazil offers a diverse natural environment and accessible healthcare for ex-pats.

Bali in Indonesia is affordable, with stunning beaches and fast internet speeds.

These countries provide cost-effective options and unique experiences for digital nomads.

And if you would like to see our top picks for digital nomad cities, check out our recent article.

Malta

If you’re looking for a digital nomad destination that offers nationwide 5G coverage and affordable flights to mainland Europe, Malta is the place for you. As one of the cheapest countries for digital nomads, Malta provides a specific digital nomad visa that allows you to work remotely while enjoying all the benefits this beautiful island offers.

Malta is known as one of the cheapest digital nomad destinations, making it an attractive choice for those seeking affordability. The cost of living in Malta is relatively low compared to other European countries, especially in its capital city, Valletta. You can find affordable accommodations and enjoy delicious local cuisine without breaking the bank.

With its advanced technology infrastructure, including nationwide 5G coverage, Malta ensures you can access fast and reliable internet wherever you go on the island. This makes it ideal for remote workers who rely heavily on internet connectivity for their jobs.

In addition to its affordability and excellent connectivity, Malta offers convenient flight connections to mainland Europe. This means you can easily explore nearby countries or take advantage of affordable European travel opportunities during your time off.

If you’re eager to find the cheapest places where digital nomads can live and work hassle-free, look no further than Malta. It’s one of the few countries to offer a specific digital nomad visa and provides an ideal combination of affordability, modern infrastructure, and easy access to other European destinations.

Greece

While Greece offers a digital nomad visa with affordable housing and low costs for food and transportation, some may worry about the language barrier. However, Greece is known for its welcoming people; many locals speak English, especially in tourist areas. It is one of the best places in Europe for digital nomads who love the combination of affordability and a rich cultural experience.

In addition to its affordability, Greece has a huge digital nomad community. Many remote workers flock to popular destinations like Athens or Thessaloniki, where they can connect with like-minded individuals. The country’s stunning landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and ancient ruins make it an attractive destination for those seeking adventure and inspiration.

Overall, Greece ranks high among cheap digital nomad destinations in Europe. With its affordable living costs, vibrant culture, and beautiful scenery, it’s no wonder it continues to attract digital nomads worldwide, so grab a new travel backpack and hit the road!

Croatia

Croatia offers a dedicated village for remote workers outside Zadar, providing an ideal work-life balance in a picturesque setting. As a digital nomad, you’ll find Croatia a great European destination.

Not only does it offer stunning natural landscapes and historical sites, but it also has a growing community of digital nomads. The village near Zadar is specifically designed to cater to remote workers, with coworking spaces, reliable internet connectivity, and comfortable accommodations. You can enjoy the tranquility of the countryside while still having access to all the amenities you need.

One of the advantages of choosing Croatia as your digital nomad destination is its strategic location between Europe and Asia. This makes it easy for you to explore nearby countries such as Morocco or even travel further into Europe or Asia during your stay. Additionally, if you’re interested in experiencing different cultures, Croatia is not far from Africa or Colombia, allowing you to visit other continents during your time abroad easily.

Croatia offers affordable options compared to other European countries regarding the cost of living. While major cities may have higher prices, housing costs are generally reasonable outside those areas. It’s important to note that bureaucracy can be slow in Croatia, so be prepared for delays when dealing with administrative tasks.

Croatia provides an attractive environment for digital nomads seeking an affordable yet beautiful place to live and work remotely in Europe.

St Lucia

For a quick and hassle-free experience, consider St Lucia as your next digital nomad destination, where you can obtain a visa in just five days. St Lucia has recently introduced a new digital nomad visa that allows remote workers to live and work on the island for an extended period.

Here are some reasons why St Lucia is an attractive option for digital nomads:

Easy access to other countries: Located in the Caribbean, St Lucia offers easy access to other popular tourist destinations in the region. You can easily explore neighboring islands or take short trips to places in Europe or even North America.
Affordable cost of living: Compared to many digital nomad hotspots, St Lucia offers a relatively low cost of living. Accommodation, food, and transportation are reasonable, allowing you to stretch your budget further.
Beautiful natural surroundings: St Lucia is renowned for its stunning landscapes and pristine beaches. As a digital nomad, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy the island’s natural beauty while working remotely.
Welcoming community: St Lucians are known for their friendly and welcoming nature. You’ll feel right at home among the locals eager to welcome digital nomads and contribute to creating a vibrant community.

So, if you’re looking for a new digital nomad destination with quick visa processing, easy access to countries around the world, affordable living costs, and beautiful surroundings – consider making St Lucia your following base as you explore new opportunities as a remote worker.

Mexico

With its affordable flights to the US and a median broadband speed of 46 Mbps, Mexico seems like an ideal destination for digital nomads. But what other benefits does it offer? Mexico is known for its stunning beaches and vibrant culture and offers some of the most affordable places for digital nomads.

Whether you settle down in popular destinations like Playa del Carmen or quieter towns like Puerto Escondido, Mexico provides endless opportunities for remote workers seeking cheap places to call home.

The country has recently introduced a digital nomad visa with a minimum monthly income requirement of $2,600. This means you can live and work in Mexico without breaking the bank. Additionally, Mexico has a thriving digital nomad community, making it easy to connect with like-minded individuals.

Portugal

Imagine immersing yourself in Portugal’s vibrant culture and breathtaking landscapes while enjoying a laid-back lifestyle and working remotely as a digital nomad. Portugal is one of the cheapest places for digital nomads, making it an attractive option for those looking for affordable destinations.

Not only does Portugal offer a digital nomad visa, but it also boasts beautiful beaches and a welcoming atmosphere. Here are two reasons why this country in Europe stands out among other countries with digital nomad visas:

Affordable Cost of Living: Portugal has one of the lowest living costs among countries that offer digital nomad visas. You’ll find everything from housing to food, shopping, and transportation at reasonable prices.
Work-Life Balance: Besides its affordability, Portugal offers an outstanding work-life balance. You can enjoy healthy food options, easy access to nature, and a laid-back lifestyle that allows you to relax after work.

Portugal truly deserves its reputation as one of the best digital nomad destinations and one of the most popular places in Europe for digital nomads seeking an escape from expensive places to live.

Spain

When considering where to live and work remotely, don’t overlook Spain – a country with a digital nomad visa and opportunities in translation, content creation, and marketing.

Spain offers a great work-life balance with its beautiful landscapes, affordable housing outside major cities, and a reliable public transportation system. The country has low tax rates and fast internet speeds, making it an attractive destination for digital nomads.

Spain has plenty to offer, whether you want to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture or enjoy the breathtaking beaches. However, it’s important to note that the Spanish bureaucracy can be challenging sometimes, so be prepared for delays in getting things done.

Despite this hurdle, Spain remains one of the top places for digital nomads in Europe, looking to become part of the thriving digital nomad lifestyle.

Brazil

Brazil offers a diverse natural environment and the opportunity for free healthcare, making it an enticing destination for those seeking adventure and peace of mind. A general consensus among globetrotters is that Rio De Janeiro is also one of the best digital nomad cities in South America.

Brazil has gained popularity among digital nomads as one of the cheapest places to live and work as a digital nomad. The country provides a digital nomad visa valid for up to one year, with the possibility of renewal. Expats can enjoy the beauty of its diverse landscapes, from stunning beaches to lush rainforests.

In addition, Brazil offers free healthcare for expats for total peace of mind. While processing times for the digital nomad visa can be lengthy, Brazil’s benefits make it worth considering as one of your potential digital nomad hotspots in Europe.

Indonesia (Bali)

Escape to the tropical paradise of Bali, where palm-fringed beaches, crystal-clear waters, and rich cultural experiences await you as a digital nomad.

As one of the cheapest and best Asian countries in the world for digital nomads, Bali offers an affordable cost of living that allows you to stretch your budget further.

With its digital nomad visa program, it’s easier than ever to live and work in this stunning country in Asia. Known as a popular digital nomad hub, Bali attracts remote workers from around the globe with its fast internet speeds and thriving coworking spaces.

Explore the bustling city of Ubud or unwind on some of the most beautiful beaches in the world while enjoying a laid-back lifestyle.

Bali truly offers a perfect blend of affordability and natural beauty for digital nomads looking for their next adventure.

Costa Rica

Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and breathtaking landscapes of Costa Rica as you embrace the opportunity to work and live in this remote, worker-friendly haven. With its digital nomad visa and affordable cost of living, Costa Rica is one of the cheapest places for digital nomads to live in the world.

Here are four reasons why it’s an ideal destination for remote workers:

Cost of Living: Costa Rica offers a significantly lower living cost than other countries with digital nomad visas. You can enjoy affordable housing options, inexpensive food, and transportation, allowing you to stretch your budget.
Travel Opportunities: Explore the stunning beauty of Costa Rica while working remotely. From lush rainforests to pristine beaches, this country provides endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation.
Digital Nomad Community: Join a thriving community of like-minded individuals who’ve chosen Costa Rica as their remote work destination. Connect with fellow digital nomads, attend networking events, and build valuable connections.
Work-Life Balance: Experience a laid-back lifestyle that promotes a healthy work-life balance. Take breaks to enjoy outdoor activities or unwind on the beach after a productive day’s work.

Costa Rica offers an inviting environment for digital nomads looking to live and work remotely while enjoying this beautiful country.

Final Thoughts

Now that you’ve explored the most affordable countries for digital nomads, you’re well-equipped to embark on your remote work journey.

Remember, becoming a digital nomad may not always be easy, but with determination and patience, you can overcome any obstacles that come your way.

Whether navigating slow bureaucracy or finding housing in major cities, these challenges are worth it for the incredible benefits these countries offer.

So pack your bags, buy a mobile hotspot, embrace the freedom of remote work, and let your adventurous spirit soar like a bird in flight!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How can I live as a digital nomad?

A: Living as a digital nomad means working from anywhere in the world while exploring new places. To live as a digital nomad, you need a stable internet connection, a laptop or other necessary equipment, and the ability to manage your work and travel arrangements.

Many nomads use a mobile hotspot for reliable internet connectivity. To learn more about these, check out our article about the best WiFi for digital nomads.

Q: Which countries offer the cheapest cost of living for digital nomads?

A: Some countries offering a low cost of living for digital nomads include Colombia in South America and several African countries. These destinations are known to be cheap countries for those who want to live and work remotely.

Q: Are there any countries that provide specific visas for digital nomads?

A: Some countries have introduced digital nomad visas to attract remote workers. These visas allow digital nomads to stay in the country for an extended period and work while enjoying the local culture and lifestyle.

Q: What are some of the best places for digital nomads?

A: Some of the best digital nomad locations include Bali in Indonesia, Chiang Mai in Thailand, and Lisbon in Portugal. These digital nomad cities offer an outstanding balance of the low cost of living, vibrant digital nomad communities, and beautiful surroundings.

Q: How can I travel around and work as a digital nomad?

A: As a digital nomad, you can travel the world while working remotely. You can stay in one place for an extended period or explore multiple destinations throughout the year. The key is to plan your travel and work schedule accordingly to maintain a balanced lifestyle.

Q: What are some of Asia’s best countries for digital nomads?

A: Asia is known for its affordable living costs and diverse cultures, making it a popular destination for digital nomads. Some of the best countries for digital nomads in Asia for digital nomads include Thailand, Vietnam, and Malaysia.

A: Yes, here are some cities that are considered to be among the cheapest and cater to digital nomads: Hanoi, Vietnam; Medellin, Colombia; and Lisbon, Portugal. These cities offer a low living cost and good infrastructure for digital nomads.

Q: Where can I find a list of the cheapest places for digital nomads?

A: Several online resources list the cheapest places for digital nomads. You can refer to websites and forums dedicated to digital nomad travel and online communities of digital nomads to get recommendations and find the cheapest cities for digital nomads.