With the rise in digital nomadism, finding affordable places to live has become very important. According to a report from Statista, the number of digital nomads increased by 130 percent by mid-2022 compared to 2019.
While working remotely offers great freedom, some places can be very pricey. Fortunately, many countries, including those in Europe, have affordable cities with low rent, easy transportation, and plenty of coworking spaces.
Besides being budget-friendly, these countries also offer incredible attractions, from historical sites to natural wonders. Below are the 12 best countries where remote workers can live for less than $1000 per month, as reported by TheTravel.
Also take a look at our list of countries that offer visas for digital nomads if you are considering moving to a new country and want to find out about your visa options.
Bulgaria
Bulgaria is often listed among the top 10 cheapest countries to live in for under $1000 a month, making it popular with digital nomads.
Varna attracts remote workers with affordable rentals, natural attractions, friendly people, authentic restaurants, and unique culture.
Sofia, another hub for remote workers, offers inspiring coworking spaces. Studios outside the city center start as low as $260, with many spacious options available.
Find perfect apartments for rent in Bulgaria
India
Few people consider India when thinking of countries to live in for less than $1000 a month. However, India has a thriving digital nomad community and an affordable lifestyle.
Popular places like Bengaluru and Goa offer rentals ranging from $250 to $400, depending on the level of luxury. In Goa, digital nomads also enjoy beautiful beaches, each with its own unique charm.
Colombia
Colombia has become a popular destination for digital nomads, and it’s easy to see why.
Medellin is one of the best cities in South America for remote workers, offering affordability and exciting adventures. A one-bedroom apartment in a good neighborhood costs around $400 a month, and a week's worth of groceries is less than $50. This leaves enough money for utilities, transport, occasional dining out, and budget-friendly excursions.
Croatia
Croatia is also a top country for living on less than $1000 a month.
Zagreb is a great city for digital nomads, with events dedicated to them and numerous coffee shops offering free Wi-Fi and great coffee.
Zadar and Split are other excellent options, featuring affordable rentals and communities of like-minded individuals.
Additionally, visitors can enjoy exploring Croatia's stunning natural wonders.
Brazil
Brazil is one of the countries in South America that offers a digital nomad visa, allowing remote workers to enjoy its beautiful beaches and stunning architecture at a reasonable price. The temporary permit is valid for one year and can be extended for another year.
Brazil also offers remote workers an incredible work-life balance, as it’s a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Some experiences and attractions cost a few bucks, so visitors don’t have to spend more than their planned budget.
Vietnam
One of the best answers to the question "Where can I live for $1000 a month" is Vietnam. It is widely known as the cheapest country in Southeast Asia, after all. Most of its cities, like Hanoi and Da Nang, have remarkable coworking spaces and cheap rentals that don’t skimp on quality.
Additionally, given Vietnam’s unique history, impeccable culture, and countless mind-blowing attractions, it’s easy to see why most digital nomads will love being here for the longest time. Adventurers spend their free time visiting bustling markets, exploring neighborhoods by motorbike, sampling local foods, and touring historical sites.
Best of all, most of these experiences are affordable.
Romania
Romania introduced a digital nomad visa in December 2021, attracting thousands of remote workers seeking a country rich in culture, ancient structures, and stunning landscapes. It's one of the affordable places to live on $1000 a month.
Cluj-Napoca, Romania's second-largest city, offers reasonably priced accommodations and high-speed internet, even in most cafes. Bucharest is another excellent option for digital nomads, with its variety of attractions and modern infrastructure.
Thailand
Digital nomads looking for a place to live for less than $1000 a month should consider Thailand. With its affordable cost of living, friendly locals, fast internet, and beautiful landscapes, Thailand is a remarkable country that attracts digital nomads.
In addition to these features, many remote workers appreciate Thailand for its excellent visa options. The Long-Term Residency Visa, recently introduced for remote workers, allows stays of up to 10 years.
Find perfect apartments for rent in Thailand
Indonesia
Indonesia is a top choice for digital nomads because of its low cost of living, even in cities with good infrastructure.
Bali, known as the 'Vatican for digital nomads,' is the best city to live in for under $1000 a month. The food is affordable and tasty, and getting around on motorbikes adds authenticity without costing much. Remote workers in Bali can also enjoy its beautiful beaches, historical sites, and stunning natural features.
Argentina
Argentina has become a sought-after spot for digital nomads looking for affordable living. With a monthly budget under $1000, individuals can lead a comfortable life in cities like Buenos Aires, Córdoba, or Mendoza. The country's economic challenges have resulted in favorable exchange rates for foreign currencies, making it an even more appealing choice for remote workers.
Despite these challenges, Argentina has a lively culture, delicious food, and breathtaking natural scenery, all while allowing digital nomads to make their money go further. With so much to explore and experience, visitors will never be short of exciting adventures during their stay in Argentina.
Mexico
Mexico offers some of the best cities for digital nomads to work and live in for less than $1000 per month. However, it's also possible to live on a tighter budget in less touristy cities and towns.
Campeche is a great example of such a place, where you can find one-bedroom apartments ranging from $260 to $320, leaving room in your budget for utilities, dining out, and transportation.
Besides its affordability, Mexico has a variety of attractions, from beautiful beaches to historical sites, for tourists to explore while working remotely.
Georgia
Georgia is another option for living on $1000 a month, and it's one of Eastern Europe's best-kept secrets. With a monthly budget of less than $1000, remote workers can find comfortable accommodations, delicious food, and rich cultural experiences in cities like Tbilisi, Batumi, or Kutaisi.
Georgia's low cost of living, along with its stunning natural landscapes, ancient monasteries, and warm hospitality, make it an attractive destination for location-independent professionals.
The country also offers a digital nomad visa with easy qualification requirements. It's definitely worth considering as an affordable place to live.
Bonus tip: Tanzania
Tanzania is an emerging destination for digital nomads seeking an affordable and adventurous lifestyle for under $1000 a month. The country offers a unique blend of stunning natural landscapes and vibrant culture, making it an attractive option for remote workers.
Arusha is a popular city among digital nomads, known for its proximity to Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest peak in Africa. Living in Arusha allows remote workers to enjoy affordable rentals and immerse themselves in the local culture while being just a short distance away from the opportunity to embark on the adventure of a lifetime by climbing Kilimanjaro.
In addition to Kilimanjaro, Tanzania offers other breathtaking experiences such as safaris in Serengeti National Park, relaxing on the beautiful beaches of Zanzibar, and exploring the bustling markets of Dar es Salaam. With a relatively low cost of living, Tanzania provides a rich cultural experience without breaking the bank, making it a compelling choice for digital nomads.
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