Cheapest and best countries for digital nomads this year.

Top 10 countries for digital nomads in 2025

In 2025, the digital nomad lifestyle is more mainstream than ever. With flexible work, global mobility, and rising costs in traditional urban centres, many are searching for destinations that combine affordability, safety, community, and a high quality of life.

A comprehensive global study conducted by hotelwithtub.com has ranked 1,370 cities using key metrics including living costs, digital infrastructure, nomad satisfaction, safety, social presence, and return rates. This guide presents the top 10 countries for digital nomads in 2025, spotlighting their leading cities and the qualities that make them remote work havens.

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Below is a summary table of the best-performing destinations:

Rank	city	Country	Score	Monthly cost (Solo)	Monthly cost (Family)	Safety	Nomad rating (5)	Return rate (%)	Instagram hashtags
1	Bangkok	Thailand	91	$1,537	$2,839	Good	4.55	18	37.2M
2	Dubai	UAE	89	$3,156	$8,065	Great	3.5	16	167.2M
3	London	United Kingdom	85	$5,937	$10,786	Great	2.87	15	190.0M
4	Tokyo	Japan	81	$3,284	$4,366	Great	3.47	17	16.0M
5	Nakhon Ratchasima	Thailand	80	$1,062	$1,103	Great	2.92	14	82.3K
6	Seoul	South Korea	80	$2,561	$3,714	Great	3.35	14	27.2M
7	Taipei	Taiwan	78	$2,330	$3,028	Great	3.02	14	19.4M
8	Barcelona	Spain	78	$5,509	$6,167	Great	3.15	15	78.2M
9	Buenos Aires	Argentina	78	$1,600	$2,771	Okay	3.05	18	29.0M
10	Tbilisi	Georgia	77	$2,120	$3,482	Good	3.41	17	4.1M

1. Thailand: Asia’s remote work powerhouse

Thailand’s dominance is unmistakable in 2025. With seven cities in the global top 100, it cements its reputation as the ultimate nomad destination. At the forefront is Bangkok, which scores 91/100 the highest in the world.

Bangkok blends affordability with fast internet, world-class co-working spaces, and a vibrant cultural scene. Living costs average US$1,537/month for solo nomads, with family costs at US$2,839. A high nomad rating of 4.55/5 and a return rate of 18% show that remote workers aren’t just passing through they’re staying or coming back.

Another standout is Nakhon Ratchasima, also known as Korat. At $1,062/month, it’s the most affordable in the top 10. Its smaller-city atmosphere provides a more tranquil alternative while still offering solid infrastructure and a welcoming expat community.

With low costs, safe environments, and high satisfaction, Thailand continues to lead the pack for remote workers seeking value and variety.

2. United Arab Emirates: Where luxury meets connectivity

Dubai ranks #2 globally, known for its luxury lifestyle, tax-free income, and state-of-the-art infrastructure. Though not cheap US$3,156/month for solo nomads and US$8,065 for families it excels in safety, transport, and digital access.

Its return rate of 16% shows that despite the price tag, nomads are drawn back. Dubai also scores high in global visibility, with 167.2 million Instagram hashtags, indicating a thriving social and professional scene.

For high-earning remote professionals looking for fast internet, premium amenities, and a safe, English-speaking environment, Dubai stands as a top-tier choice.

3. United Kingdom: London as a cultural hub

London, the UK’s crown jewel, comes in at #3. While it’s among the most expensive in the top 10 US$5,937/month solo, US$10,786 for families it offers a globally connected lifestyle with rich culture, history, and networking potential.

It has the highest Instagram visibility of any city studied, at 190 million tags, and a healthy 15% return rate. Its diversity, educational institutions, and tech scene make it an excellent choice for nomads working in media, finance, and digital industries.

London is ideal for those who can manage the cost and want to be in the heart of global innovation and cultural exchange.

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4. Japan: Innovation and tradition in Tokyo

Tokyo is ranked 4th, a city where the modern and traditional coexist. With a population of over 14 million and 19.8 million annual visitors, it offers a safe, clean, and highly efficient lifestyle.

Costs are moderate for a major world city US$3,284/month solo and the quality of life is consistently rated “Good” with a return rate of 17%. The infrastructure is unparalleled, with one of the world’s most reliable public transport systems and near-universal high-speed internet access.

Japan’s visa options for remote workers are expanding, making Tokyo a strong contender for long-term digital stays.

5. Thailand: Nakhon Ratchasima affordable, safe, and authentic

Coming in at #5, Nakhon Ratchasima also known as Korat offers perhaps the best cost-of-living value in the entire top 10. With solo expenses averaging only US$1,062/month and family costs a remarkably low US$1,103/month, it is the most affordable city in the top 10 rankings.

Despite its small size compared to Bangkok, Korat boasts “Great” safety, a steady 14% return rate, and increasing popularity among digital nomads, evidenced by 82,300 Instagram hashtags. It also earns a 2.92/5 nomad satisfaction rating, reflecting a modest but growing digital nomad community.

Korat is ideal for nomads who prefer authentic Thai experiences away from tourist crowds but still want reliable digital infrastructure, budget-friendly living, and peaceful surroundings. With strong public transport, proximity to national parks, and welcoming locals, Nakhon Ratchasima offers a slower, more affordable alternative to Thailand’s urban centres without sacrificing remote work viability.

Top 10 countries for digital nomads in 2025 7

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6. South Korea: Seoul tech-focussed and efficient

Seoul drops to #6 in the updated list but remains a heavyweight for tech-savvy remote workers. It offers reliable infrastructure, fast public Wi-Fi, and excellent safety. With living costs at US$2,561/month solo and US$3,714/month for families, it’s more expensive than Korat but offers a denser urban experience.

The city has a 3.35/5 nomad rating, and a 14% return rate, showing growing interest from digital professionals in Asia. With 27.2 million Instagram hashtags, Seoul is not only functional but visually dynamic, offering countless cafés, cultural events, and a high-energy atmosphere.

7. Taiwan: Taipei balanced, calm, and productive

Now ranked #7, Taipei strikes a sweet spot between serenity and efficiency. A popular destination for digital nomads who value structure, safety, and balanced living, Taipei offers solo costs at US$2,330/month, with family life at US$3,028/month.

Taipei is rated “Great” for safety and earns a 3.02/5 nomad satisfaction score. The 14% return rate and 19.4 million Instagram hashtags reflect a loyal international remote work community. Taiwan’s public health system, clean air, and widespread English signage make Taipei an underrated yet practical option for long-term stays.

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8. Spain: Barcelona – creative and cosmopolitan

Barcelona holds the #8 spot, serving as a favourite among digital creatives, especially those in design, media, and digital arts. With living costs at US$5,509/month, it’s one of the more expensive cities in the top 10, but it compensates with a rich lifestyle sunny beaches, renowned cuisine, and vibrant co-working spaces.

With a nomad rating of 3.15/5, a 15% return rate, and 78.2 million Instagram hashtags, Barcelona is highly appealing. The city offers Spain’s newly launched digital nomad visa, making long-term residence easier for remote workers from outside the EU.

9. Argentina: Buenos Aires Latin America’s budget star

Buenos Aires, now #9, remains a go-to city for digital nomads in Latin America. With solo living costs at US$1,600/month and family expenses at US$2,771/month, it offers one of the lowest cost profiles in the top 10.

The city combines European architecture with South American spirit, great café culture, and a lively arts scene. It earns a 3.05/5 nomad rating, an impressive 18% return rate, and 29 million Instagram hashtags. For nomads seeking culture and cost-efficiency, Buenos Aires is a strong option, even amid ongoing economic instability.

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10. Georgia: Tbilisi Europe’s emerging remote work capital

Tbilisi rounds out the top 10, offering digital nomads a solid value proposition with living costs at US$2,120/month for individuals and US$3,482/month for families. With a return rate of 17%, a 3.41/5 satisfaction score, and 4.1 million Instagram hashtags, this small capital is gaining international attention.

Georgia’s favourable visa policies allowing many nationalities to stay visa-free for up to a year plus attractive tax incentives and low bureaucracy, make Tbilisi an ideal place for freelancers and remote entrepreneurs. The city’s cultural mix, scenic landscapes, and affordability create a relaxed, creative environment for long-term stays.

Choosing the right country for you

Each of these countries excels in different areas. Thailand leads for value and variety, the UAE for luxury and speed, Japan and Korea for infrastructure and safety, and cities like Buenos Aires and Tbilisi for budget-friendly living with rich cultural rewards.

Whether you’re a high-income remote worker seeking luxury, a startup founder searching for tax benefits, or a creative seeking community and inspiration, there’s a 2025 destination that fits your needs.

As the digital nomad lifestyle continues to evolve, these countries are at the forefront of remote work, connectivity, and global mobility. Before choosing your next destination, consider what matters most—cost, culture, safety, infrastructure—and you’ll find your perfect base among the world’s best.

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