With the years passing by, it’s becoming easier and more accessible to work as a digital nomad in another country or city. But before you book that flight, let’s chat about why picking the right city is a pretty big deal for us digital nomads. It’s not just about finding a pretty view or a cheap coffee. Because it also becomes clear there are cities to avoid as a digital nomad.
Think about it: your laptop and internet are basically your office. If that connection is spotty, your whole workday can go sideways fast. And let’s not even start on the cost of living. A place that looks affordable online might drain your bank account quicker than you can say “Wi-Fi password.”
The reality is, your chosen city directly impacts your productivity, your budget, and even your overall happiness. It’s about finding a place that supports your work, not one that constantly throws up roadblocks.
Here are a few things that really make a difference:
- Internet Speed and Reliability: Can you actually get your work done without constant buffering?
- Cost of Living: Will your money stretch far enough to live comfortably and explore?
- Visa Hassles: How easy is it to actually stay and work legally?
- Safety: Do you feel secure walking around, especially at night?
- Community: Is there a chance to meet other people, or will you be totally isolated?
Choosing wisely means you can focus on your job and actually enjoy the experience of living somewhere new. It’s about setting yourself up for success, not just a temporary escape. For some ideas on places that are generally good bets, you can check out top countries for remote work.
Getting this part right means less stress and more time to actually enjoy the adventure. It’s the foundation for a great digital nomad experience.
Key Factors to Consider When Avoiding Cities
So, you’re thinking about where to plant your digital flag for a while. It’s exciting, right? But just like picking the perfect coffee shop for your morning Zoom calls, choosing the right city matters. And sometimes, knowing where not to go is just as important as knowing where to aim. Let’s chat about some things that might make a city a bit of a headache for us remote workers.
Cost of Living and Affordability
This is a big one. If your daily latte costs more than your hourly rate, you’re going to have a bad time. We’re not all rolling in dough, and even if we are, why spend a fortune when you don’t have to? Look for places where your money stretches. A city that seems amazing on Instagram might drain your bank account faster than you can say “Wi-Fi password.”
- Rent: Is it sky-high or reasonable?
- Groceries: Can you afford to eat more than just instant noodles?
- Transportation: Will getting around cost an arm and a leg?
Some places are just prohibitively expensive, making it tough to save money or even just live comfortably without constantly worrying about your budget. It’s easy to get caught up in the allure of a city, but if it means you’re constantly stressed about money, it’s probably not the best fit.
Internet Speed and Reliability
This is non-negotiable, folks. Your livelihood depends on a stable internet connection. Imagine being in the middle of a client presentation and suddenly, poof! Gone. Or trying to upload a massive file and it takes hours. Some cities just don’t have the infrastructure yet, and it can be a real productivity killer. You want a place where the internet is fast and doesn’t cut out every five minutes. Check out speed tests and user reviews before you book that flight.
Visa Regulations and Bureaucracy
Nobody wants to spend their days filling out endless forms or worrying about overstaying their welcome. Complicated visa processes or strict immigration rules can turn your dream nomad spot into a bureaucratic nightmare. It’s worth doing your homework on what’s required to stay legally and for how long. Some countries make it super easy with digital nomad visas, while others… not so much. This can really impact your ability to settle in and focus on work.
Safety and Political Stability
This might seem obvious, but it’s worth repeating. You want to feel safe where you’re living and working. Cities with high crime rates or political instability can be stressful and, frankly, dangerous. It’s not just about personal safety; it’s also about knowing that things won’t suddenly change overnight due to unrest, making your stay uncertain. A peaceful environment lets you focus on your work and enjoy your surroundings.
Community and Networking Opportunities
While we’re often solo travelers, having a community can make a huge difference. If a city has a tiny or non-existent digital nomad scene, you might find yourself feeling isolated. It’s great to have places to connect with like-minded people, share tips, or even just grab a coffee with someone who gets the lifestyle. A city that’s hard to meet people in can feel pretty lonely after a while. Look for places with coworking spaces, meetups, or active online groups for digital nomads abroad.
The 7 Cities to Reconsider for Your Digital Nomad Journey in 2026
Alright, so we’ve talked about what makes a city great for us laptop warriors. Now, let’s flip the coin and look at some places that, while they might seem appealing on the surface, could actually make your digital nomad life a bit more… complicated in 2026. It’s not about saying these cities are ‘bad,’ but more about being realistic about potential hurdles.
City 1: Paris, France
Ah, Paris. The city of lights, love, and… surprisingly tricky Wi-Fi in older buildings? While Paris is undeniably beautiful and offers a rich cultural experience, its reputation as a digital nomad haven can be a bit overblown. The cost of living is famously high, and finding affordable, reliable internet outside of dedicated co-working spaces can be a real challenge. Plus, navigating the bureaucracy for longer stays, even with the new visa options, can be a headache. It’s a fantastic place to visit, but for extended work stays, you might find yourself spending more time troubleshooting your connection than enjoying the croissants.
City 2: Tokyo, Japan
Tokyo is a marvel of efficiency and technology, but that doesn’t always translate to an easy digital nomad experience. While major hubs have great internet, venturing into residential areas or smaller cafes can reveal spotty connections. The language barrier, while not insurmountable, adds another layer of complexity to daily life and administrative tasks. And let’s be honest, the cost of living, especially for accommodation, can really add up. It’s an incredible city to explore, but settling in to work might require more effort than you’d expect.
City 3: New York City, USA
This one might sting for some, but NYC is a prime example of a city that’s tough on the wallet for digital nomads. The sheer expense of daily life – from rent to a simple cup of coffee – can drain your savings fast. While the internet is generally good, finding a quiet, affordable spot to work consistently can be tough amidst the city’s constant buzz. The visa situation for non-US citizens also remains a significant hurdle for longer stays. It’s a city that thrives on energy, but that energy comes at a steep price.
City 4: London, UK
Similar to New York, London is a global hub with amazing connectivity and opportunities, but it comes with a hefty price tag. The cost of living is high, and finding budget-friendly accommodation that also offers decent workspace can be a struggle. While many cafes offer Wi-Fi, finding a stable connection for demanding work tasks might mean relying on co-working spaces, which adds to the expense. The UK’s visa system can also be complex for those looking to stay long-term.
City 5: Sydney, Australia
Sydney offers a fantastic lifestyle with its beaches and outdoor activities, but it’s geographically isolated and expensive. Flights to and from Australia are long and costly, which can be a major drawback if you need to visit home or other regions frequently. The cost of living is high, and while internet speeds are generally good, the overall expense can make it difficult to sustain a nomadic lifestyle long-term without a very healthy income. Plus, the time difference can be challenging if your clients are primarily in Europe or North America.
City 6: Reykjavik, Iceland
Iceland is stunningly beautiful and safe, but it’s also one of the most expensive places on earth. The cost of groceries, accommodation, and pretty much everything else is significantly higher than in most other digital nomad hotspots. While the internet is excellent, the limited daylight hours during winter months can impact productivity and mood for some. It’s a magical place, but perhaps better suited for a short, immersive visit rather than a long-term work base.
City 7: San Francisco, USA
While a hub for tech, San Francisco presents similar challenges to New York City regarding cost. Rent is astronomical, and even co-working spaces can be pricey. The city’s infrastructure, while advanced in many ways, can sometimes struggle with consistent internet reliability in certain areas, especially outside the main tech corridors. For many digital nomads, the sheer expense makes it unsustainable for anything more than a brief visit.
It’s easy to get caught up in the Instagram-perfect images of digital nomad life. But the reality often involves dealing with less-than-ideal Wi-Fi, navigating unfamiliar public transport, and figuring out where to get your laundry done. These practicalities, combined with high costs or bureaucratic hurdles, can turn a dream location into a daily grind. Always do your homework beyond the glossy photos.
Remember, these are just cities to reconsider. Many digital nomads thrive in these locations by carefully planning and budgeting. But for those seeking a smoother, more affordable, or less complicated experience in 2026, looking elsewhere might be a wiser move. For a broader look at destinations that are currently popular, you might want to check out top countries for digital nomads.
Alternatives: Cities That Shine for Digital Nomads
So, you’ve heard about the cities to maybe skip in 2026, but what about the places that are actually great for us remote workers? It’s not all about avoiding the bad; it’s also about finding the good, right?
There are tons of spots out there that really welcome digital nomads. Think places with solid internet, a decent cost of living, and a community vibe that makes you feel less like you’re just passing through and more like you’ve found a temporary home.
Some countries are even rolling out special visas to make things easier. For example, Georgia has become a popular choice because it’s pretty affordable, and places like Tbilisi and Batumi are building up their coworking scenes. You can often get by on a budget of around $700–$1,600 a month there, which is a nice change from some of the pricier hubs.
Then there’s Thailand. It’s been a go-to for ages, and for good reason. Beautiful beaches, island hopping, and a low cost of living are big draws. Cities like Chiang Mai and Bangkok, or islands like Ko Phangan, offer pretty impressive internet speeds too.
And don’t forget about places like Croatia. It’s got amazing nature, and the cost of living is reasonable. They even have a digital nomad visa that lets you stay for a year, with a monthly income requirement of about $3,000.
The key is finding a balance that works for you. It’s about more than just cheap rent; it’s about feeling connected, having reliable internet, and knowing you can actually get things done without a constant headache.
Here are a few more things to keep in mind when looking for your next spot:
- Community: Look for cities with existing digital nomad groups or coworking spaces where you can meet people. It makes a huge difference.
- Connectivity: Beyond just internet speed, think about how easy it is to get around the city and to other places.
- Local Vibe: Does the city have a culture you’re interested in exploring? It’s not just about work; it’s about the experience.
It’s easy to get caught up in the idea of the perfect Instagram shot, but remember, this is your life and your work. Finding a place that supports both is what really matters. If you’re curious about other options, exploring alternative destinations can open up a world of possibilities.
Making Your Final Decision: A Checklist
Alright, so you’ve looked at a bunch of cities, maybe even some of the ones we’ve suggested avoiding. Now comes the part where you really nail down where you’re going to set up your temporary home base. It’s not just about picking a pretty picture on Instagram; it’s about finding a place that actually works for you and your work.
Think about what really matters. Is it having a super-fast internet connection so you can hop on video calls without a hitch? Or is it more about finding a place with a low cost of living so your savings stretch further? Maybe you need a specific visa that’s easy to get, or perhaps you just want to feel safe and sound when you’re out exploring.
Here’s a quick rundown to help you sort it all out:
- Budget Check: How much can you realistically spend each month on rent, food, and fun? Don’t forget to factor in things like local transport and any visa fees. A place like Chiang Mai, for example, is known for its affordability, which can make a big difference to your wallet.
- Work Setup: Seriously, check the internet speeds. Look for coworking spaces if you need them, or just scout out cafes with good Wi-Fi. If you’re going to be working from your accommodation, make sure there’s a decent spot to set up your laptop – no one wants to work from a lumpy bed for weeks on end.
- Legal Stuff: Visa requirements can be a real headache. Some countries make it super simple for digital nomads, while others have complicated rules. Do your homework here to avoid any nasty surprises.
- Vibe Check: What kind of atmosphere are you looking for? Do you want a bustling city with lots of nightlife, or a quieter place where you can focus? And importantly, is there a community of other remote workers or locals who are welcoming?
- Safety First: Always look into the safety situation and general stability of a place. You want to feel comfortable exploring, not worried about your belongings or personal safety.
Remember, this isn’t a vacation. It’s work, just in a different location. Setting up a routine, even a flexible one, is key to staying productive and not burning out. Treat it like a job, because it is.
Don’t forget the practicalities, too. Things like travel insurance are a must, and some countries might even require health insurance for visa applications. It’s all about being prepared so you can actually enjoy the experience without constant stress. Making a list of your non-negotiables can really help narrow down the options and prevent you from picking a city that just isn’t the right fit for your digital nomad lifestyle.
Conclusion
We’ve looked at some spots that might not be the best fit for digital nomads in 2026. It’s not about saying ‘never go there,’ but more about being realistic. The dream of working from a beach with a laptop is often just that – a dream. Building real connections, managing work, and dealing with the day-to-day grind in new places can be tough. Remember, the Instagram version of this life isn’t the whole story. Think about what you really want from your travels and work, and choose your destinations wisely. Happy travels, and happy working!