The rise of the digital nomad lifestyle has transformed how people approach work and travel. No longer tied to a single office, many professionals now have the freedom to work from anywhere in the world. If you’re a digital nomad or aspiring to become one, choosing the best cities for digital nomads is crucial. With factors like affordable living, vibrant culture, and fast internet, these cities offer the perfect blend of work and adventure. In this article, we will explore the top five cities for digital nomads in 2025, with a focus on internet speed rankings, so you can make an informed decision for your next destination.
1. Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon has rapidly become one of the best cities for digital nomads in Europe. Not only does it offer a mild climate and rich history, but it also has a thriving coworking space scene and fast, reliable internet speeds. The city’s internet speeds have been consistently high, averaging 200 Mbps in most areas, which makes it ideal for remote work. Lisbon also boasts a relatively low cost of living compared to other major Western European cities, making it an attractive option for those who want to stretch their budget.
Beyond work, Lisbon has a vibrant culture and a growing community of expats, making it easy to network and meet like-minded people. The city’s many cafes and coworking spaces provide an excellent environment for productivity. Whether you’re enjoying the views from Alfama or sipping coffee in the Baixa district, Lisbon offers the perfect balance of work and play.

2. Bali, Indonesia
Bali has long been a favorite destination for remote workers, and it continues to be one of the best cities for digital nomads in 2025. Known for its affordable cost of living, stunning beaches, and laid-back atmosphere, Bali is a paradise for remote workers. The internet speed in Bali is impressive as well, with speeds reaching up to 100 Mbps in popular nomad hubs like Canggu and Ubud. While Bali may not offer the ultra-fast internet of larger cities, the connection is more than adequate for video calls, content creation, and general online work.
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The island’s thriving digital nomad community is another major draw. Best cities for digital nomads, like Dojo Bali and Tropical Nomad provide a great place to connect with others in the same line of work. Plus, the cost of living in Bali is significantly lower than in many other digital nomad hotspots, allowing for a more relaxed lifestyle with plenty of room to explore the island’s cultural and natural wonders.
3. Mexico City, Mexico
Mexico City has increasingly become a popular destination for digital nomads, and it is not hard to see why it is one of the best cities for digital nomads. With a combination of a rich cultural scene, excellent food, and affordable living, Mexico City is one of the best cities for digital nomads in 2025. The internet speeds in Mexico City are fast, with averages ranging from 150 to 200 Mbps in many areas, particularly in business districts like Polanco and Roma. This makes it a top choice for remote workers who require high-speed internet for tasks like video conferencing and content creation.
The city’s affordability is another major advantage. Rent is much cheaper than in most U.S. cities, and Mexico City’s extensive public transportation system makes it easy to get around. In addition, the vibrant expat community and coworking spaces offer excellent opportunities for networking and collaboration. Whether you’re working from a cafe or a dedicated coworking space, Mexico City is one of the best cities for digital nomads.

4. Chiang Mai, Thailand
Chiang Mai has long been a staple in the digital nomad community, and it remains one of the best cities for digital nomads in 2025. This charming city in northern Thailand offers a perfect balance of affordable living, fast internet, and a relaxed lifestyle. Internet speeds in Chiang Mai are typically around 100 Mbps, which is more than enough for the majority of remote work activities. The city is home to many coworking spaces, such as Camp Chiang Mai and Mana Coworking, where digital nomads can work alongside others and find inspiration.
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Beyond work, Chiang Mai offers a laid-back atmosphere, with easy access to temples, mountains, and nature. The low cost of living in Chiang Mai allows for a lifestyle that is hard to beat. You can enjoy delicious street food, explore vibrant markets, and live comfortably on a modest budget. Chiang Mai remains amongst the best cities for digital nomads who want to work hard and play hard without breaking the bank.
5. Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona is another city that ranks high on the list of the best cities for digital nomads in 2025. Known for its stunning architecture, lively atmosphere, and excellent quality of life, Barcelona is a city that offers the perfect combination of work and play. The internet speeds in Barcelona are impressive, with averages of around 200 Mbps in many areas, ensuring that remote workers can stay productive and connected without any issues.
Curious where else you could be working remotely in Europe? Take a look at our Europe on a Budget guide for digital nomads.
The city’s vibrant coworking scene, coupled with its status as a hub for tech startups, makes Barcelona a great place to network and collaborate. The cost of living in Barcelona is higher than in some other digital nomad hotspots, but it is still affordable compared to other Western European cities. Moreover, Barcelona’s proximity to the beach means you can take a break from work and soak up some sun when needed.

Choosing the Right City for You
Finding the best cities for digital nomads ultimately depends on your personal preferences, work requirements, and lifestyle choices. Lisbon offers a blend of history, culture, and fast internet, making it ideal for those who love European cities. Bali is perfect for those seeking a tropical lifestyle with affordable living. Mexico City offers a vibrant cultural scene and excellent internet speeds, while Chiang Mai is great for those looking for a budget-friendly, laid-back environment. Barcelona, with its excellent quality of life and coworking opportunities, rounds out our list as an ideal city for digital nomads.
As we move further into 2025, the number of destinations for digital nomads will only continue to grow. No matter where you choose to settle, make sure you prioritize fast internet, reliable coworking spaces, and a welcoming community. The world is your office—now it’s just a matter of picking the perfect location for your next adventure.
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