As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, digital nomads are seeking destinations that offer affordability, lifestyle benefits, and opportunities for investment.
Nomad Capitalist, a consultancy firm specializing in global mobility, has unveiled its list of the top 10 most affordable countries for digital nomads in 2025.
Using facts from the Nomad Capitalist video, data from Internations’ Expat Insider latest report, and additional cost of living data from Numbeo, we’ve examined these destinations to provide a comprehensive breakdown of their offerings.
Highlights
- 🌏 Vietnam tops the list as the most affordable country for digital nomads in 2024.
- 🇨🇴 Colombia is noted for its low living costs, but has higher taxes compared to others.
- 🇮🇩 Indonesia offers immigration options but is not the most tax-friendly.
- 🇵🇦 Panama is tax-friendly and uses the US dollar, making it appealing.
- 🇵🇭 The Philippines features affordable residence programs for digital nomads & expats.
- 🇲🇽 Mexico provides a good lifestyle and potential for citizenship.
- 🇹🇭 Thailand ranks eighth, with a focus on investment for long-term residence and good digital nomad visa.
10 Cheapest Countries in the World for Digital Nomads
1. Vietnam
Vietnam tops the list as the most affordable country for digital nomads. Known for its vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and low living costs, Vietnam attracts many digital nomads and investors. However, long-term residence options are limited.
- Average Rent: $450/month (1-bedroom apartment in city center)
- Food in Restaurants: $2.50/meal (local)
- Groceries: $100/month
- Utilities: $50/month
- Source: Numbeo.com (Vietnam)
2. Colombia
Colombia, with its rich history and stunning landscapes, offers affordability and increasing accessibility for real estate investors. Popular cities like Bogotá, Medellín, and Cali provide varying levels of affordability.
- Average Rent: $400/month (1-bedroom apartment in city center)
- Food in Restaurants: $3/meal (local)
- Groceries: $120/month
- Utilities: $60/month
- Source: Numbeo.com (Colombia)
3. Indonesia
Indonesia, particularly Bali, remains a favorite among digital nomads. With programs like “My Second Home,” the country is opening up more immigration opportunities. However, taxes and longer-term residency can be challenging.
- Average Rent: $450/month (1-bedroom apartment in city center)
- Food in Restaurants: $2/meal (local)
- Groceries: $80/month
- Utilities: $50/month
- Source: Numbeo.com (Indonesia)
4. Panama
Panama is a tax-friendly destination with a stable economy. Although slightly more expensive than some other countries on this list, its use of the US dollar and robust infrastructure make it an attractive choice.
- Average Rent: $700/month (1-bedroom apartment in city center)
- Food in Restaurants: $7/meal (local)
- Groceries: $150/month
- Utilities: $80/month
- Source: Numbeo.com (Panama)
5. Philippines
The Philippines is one of Asia’s most affordable countries for digital nomads, with new residence programs catering to digital nomads and retirees. Its English-speaking population and tropical setting add to its appeal.
- Average Rent: $400/month (1-bedroom apartment in city center)
- Food in Restaurants: $3/meal (local)
- Groceries: $100/month
- Utilities: $60/month
- Source: Numbeo.com (Philippines)
6. India
India’s diverse culture and low cost of living make it a fascinating option. However, nomads seeking a high standard of living may find the costs higher than expected in major cities.
- Average Rent: $300/month (1-bedroom apartment in city center)
- Food in Restaurants: $2/meal (local)
- Groceries: $80/month
- Utilities: $40/month
- Source: Numbeo (India)
7. Mexico
Mexico combines affordability with a strong appeal for North American digital nomads. Its proximity to the US and robust digital nomad community make it a top choice.
- Average Rent: $500/month (1-bedroom apartment in city center)
- Food in Restaurants: $5/meal (local)
- Groceries: $120/month
- Utilities: $70/month
- Source: Numbeo.com (Mexico)
8. Thailand
Thailand, known for its bustling cities and serene islands, remains an affordable and popular destination. Immigration programs require investments, but the country offers a rich lifestyle and also a good digital nomad visa.
Thailand’s Digital Nomad Visa offers a fantastic opportunity for remote workers looking to live and work in the country. Introduced to attract long-term visitors, this visa allows digital nomads to stay in Thailand for up to 12 months, with the option to extend. Applicants must meet certain income requirements, demonstrating a steady source of remote work income.
- Average Rent: $400/month (1-bedroom apartment in city center)
- Food in Restaurants: $2.50/meal (local)
- Groceries: $90/month
- Utilities: $50/month
- Source: Numbeo.com (Thailand)
9. Brazil
Brazil offers a mix of affordability and pathways to citizenship, though safety concerns in some regions may deter potential residents. Coastal cities like Florianópolis are particularly appealing.
- Average Rent: $300/month (1-bedroom apartment in city center)
- Food in Restaurants: $3.50/meal (local)
- Groceries: $100/month
- Utilities: $60/month
- Source: Numbeo.com (Brazil)
10. China
China’s inclusion highlights its affordability for foreign remote workers / expats working in multinational corporations. However, the barriers for entrepreneurs remain high.
- Utilities: $70/month
- Average Rent: $600/month (1-bedroom apartment in city center)
- Food in Restaurants: $3/meal (local)
- Groceries: $120/month
- Source: Numbeo.com (China)
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