How Much does being a Digital Nomad Cost? Top 10 Countries
How Much does being a Digital Nomad Cost in the top 10 countries for digital nomads? We’ve gathered 10 countries and given you an estimate of how much being a digital nomad will cost, based on experience and research on the interwebs.
For many travel fanatics, leveraging technology to earn a full-time income while traveling around the globe is a covetable lifestyle, and better than one’s wildest dreams.
That’s the main reason why digital nomadism has spiked in popularity in recent years and now that remote working has evolved into a conventional way of living, your fantasies of flexibility, freedom, and travel, don’t have to go unfulfilled.
If you’re planning to jump on this bandwagon, check out these top digital nomad hotspots and a rough estimate of how much it will cost you to stay in different countries.
Of course, it goes without mentioning that the cost of living will vary widely depending on which city you’ll choose to base yourself in and how opulent you want your lifestyle to be.
1. Puerto Rico
From deep steeped history and rich culture to diverse landscapes boasting rugged mountains, astounding beaches, and bioluminescent bays, Puerto Rico have an array of unique perks to lure even the most discerning traveler into its borders.
You can earn your money in this country while enjoying dramatic views of a beach or a mountain, and with Puerto Rico’s tropical weather, you’ll never have to brave through cold days!
The country has a good selection of co-working spaces, especially in San Juan. Some of these include;
- Piloto 151 (this was the first one and was established by Sofia Stolberg)
- CoSPAZIO
- The Workplace at District View Office Center
- co.co.haus
Rent: $700 – $1200
Food: $450 – $800
ESTIMATED MONTHLY BUDGET: $1500 – $2000
2. El Salvador
Famed for being the most populated yet the smallest country in Central America, El Salvador is graced with natural beauty and it’s a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.
Bordered by the Pacific Ocean on the south, this country also has beautiful volcanic-sand beaches where you can relax as you enjoy beautiful ocean views. Or you can visit Cerro Verde National Park where you can hike volcanoes.
San Salvador, the capital city of El Salvador is one of the best places to live as a digital nomad.
The internet speed in the city is decent, you’ll find a range of accommodation and you’ll be at the heart of the country from where you can easily venture further to explore other cities in El Salvador.
You’ll also find a lot of co-working spaces in the city. Some of these include;
Rent: $300 – $900
Food: $250 – $400
ESTIMATED MONTHLY BUDGET: $1300 – $1500
3. Mexico
From a long list of fun adventures, wonderful year-round weather, and astonishingly affordable cost of living, Mexico seemingly has everything you’d need to enjoy a comfortable digital nomadic lifestyle.
In recent years, this country has become a thriving hub for remote workers, especially in Mexico City, Puerto Vallarta, and Playa del Carmen.
Not only will you find co-working spaces in major cities, but also, most cafes have decent Wi-Fi. This allows you to easily get out and mingle with the locals, other digital nomads, or even expats.
Rent: $300 – $1100
Food: $120 – $160
ESTIMATED MONTHLY BUDGET: $750 – $2000
4. Brazil
Even before Brazil became the first country in Central America to enact a digital nomad visa, this country was already a popular destination among the digital nomad community.
Although it might seem a little bit expensive if compared to Asian destinations, Brazil has a lot to offer. Particularly because it’s large and diverse which means there’s something for everyone.
Jericoacoara and Florianopolis are the most famed locales for digital nomads but you can explore some smaller towns especially if you’re on a budget.
You might need to research the area beforehand, though, just to make sure there’s a Wi-Fi connection.
Rent: $300 – $800
Food: $350 – $500
ESTIMATED MONTHLY BUDGET: $800 – $1300
5. Italy
With sun-soaked Mediterranean islands, authentically flavorful cuisine, amazing culture, and countless archeological sites, Italy, is by far one of the best places in Europe for digital nomads.
It’s a popular travel destination so you’ll not run short of interesting places to explore. It’s among the cheapest countries in Western Europe and its infrastructure is pretty impressive.
Plus, with the government putting extra efforts to help replenish the quaint abandoned countryside, Italy is likely to be the next digital nomad hotspot in the near future.
Rent: $450 – $800
Food: $300 – $400
ESTIMATED MONTHLY BUDGET: $1500 – $2500
6. Spain
Cost of living in Spain as a digital nomad is considerably low. Especially when compared to other major cities in Europe such as London and Berlin.
In addition to Wi-Fi hotspots in most parts of the country, there are many affordable co-working spaces.
And regardless of which part of the country you decide to settle in, you’ll be just a stone’s throw away from a striking beach, a captivating museum, or a great eatery!
Rent: $450 – $1000
Food: $320 – $550
ESTIMATED MONTHLY BUDGET: $1200 – $2000
7. Istanbul, Turkey
Istanbul is a transcontinental metropolis that catches the attention of travelers worldwide. As the cliché goes, the capital of Turkey is the point where the East meets the West.
Here you’ll experience a great balance of the influence these two continents have poured into this city for over a thousand years.
From vibrant nightlife and amazing landmarks to breathtaking views and world-class infrastructure, Istanbul checks all the boxes for a great digital nomad destination where you can work and party hard.
Turkey is a culture-rich country, the people are very welcoming and the cost of living is relatively affordable.
Rent: $ 300- $400
Food: $180 – $250
ESTIMATED MONTHLY BUDGET: $1000 – $1500
8. Lisbon, Portugal
Boasting a wealth of captivating cultural landmarks, staggering beaches, and an interestingly lower cost of living compared to other cities in Europe, there are a bunch of reasons to adore Lisbon.
But what makes this city incredibly attractive to remote workers and digital nomads is the developed yet cheap transportation, the cybercafés, and pubs with internet connections.
Rent: $750- $1100
Food: $400 – $550
ESTIMATED MONTHLY BUDGET: $1500 – $2500
9. Cape Town, South Africa
Besides sunshine, beach atmosphere, and a welcoming ambiance, Cape Town offers you a sanctuary where you can work, play and explore the unique South African landscape.
It’s in a great location close to the Cape of Good Hope National Park and Cape Town International Airport.
Rent: $400 – $1000
Food: $250 – $400
ESTIMATED MONTHLY BUDGET: $900 – $1900
10. Rwanda, Kigali
If you’re yearning for a laidback atmosphere with miles of lush countryside and mountains Kigali, Rwanda may be the perfect choice for you.
It’s one of the cleanest cities in Africa, with well-developed infrastructure and a great range of awesome accommodations.
The internet is widely available and you can easily take advantage of free Wi-Fi, so you can work from coffee shops within the city, and in some restaurants.
Rent: $400 – $700
Food: $180 – $200
ESTIMATED MONTHLY BUDGET: $750 – $1800
Detailed statistics
For even more detailed statistics like the cost of a cup of coffee and tax rates, you can check out our interactive overview of the best places to live as a digital nomad!
Which country suits you best?
Every country comes with its own perks and downsides. You’ll have to make your own decision based on the things you find most important. Do you want to know more about the best cities and countries for digital nomads, besides just the prices? Check out all our overviews of the best places to be a digital nomad in Europe!