The best cities for digital nomads – Bangkok, Thailand, crowned top

• New data has revealed the best cities for digital nomads to live and work in, with Bangkok, Thailand, taking the top spot.
• Bucharest, Romania, was identified as the second-best city for digital nomads, followed by Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, in third.
• The research looked at criteria influencing the appeal of cities for digital nomads, such as internet speed, cost of living, and visa options. 

Remote working is becoming an increasingly popular option for employees seeking more flexibility and work-life balance. A huge draw of remote work for many is the ability to travel more or move somewhere new without the constraints of a fixed working address. 

As reported by Pew Research Center, 14% of employed American adults were working remotely full-time in 2023. Similarly, in the UK, around 13% of Brits exclusively worked from home from January to October 2024 according to the Office of National Statistics (ONS). 

That’s why a team of experts at QR Code Generator created an index of the best cities for digital nomads according to relevant criteria, such as broadband and mobile speed, cost of living, rent, and other expenses, availability of coworking spaces and accessibility to remote working visas. Cities were scored on each factor and an appropriate weighting was applied to create a total index score out of 100. 

The top 10 best cities for digital nomads 

Coming out on top was Bangkok, Thailand, with a score of 69.98 out of 100. The capital city ranked highest for restaurant affordability, with a score of 9.43 out of 10, followed by average broadband speed with a score of 9.06 out of 10. 

Bangkok’s ornate temples, delectable cuisine, and energetic street life are ideal for anyone seeking to experience somewhere new. Thailand’s capital offers a dynamic atmosphere, making it a coveted hotspot for any digital nomad looking to embrace a heritage-rich city that uniquely blends modernity and tradition. 

In second place was Bucharest, Romania, with a score of 65.62. Romania’s capital performed best in remote visa access, with a score of 8.82 out of 10, followed by average broadband speed, with 8.12 out of 10. 

An artistic hub, Romania’s capital has plenty for digital nomads to explore, such as its elaborate and diverse architecture, an arts scene featuring some of the world’s best galleries, museums and theatres, and tranquil parks ideal for nature lovers. 

Ranking third was Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, with 62.35 out of 100. Brazil’s second largest city was best for local purchasing power, with a score of 9.10 out of 10, and restaurant affordability, with a score of 8.52 out of 10. 

Rio is revered for its striking natural beauty and dazzling coastlines, with Ipanema Beach boasting 1.5 miles of sand and crystal blue water against a dramatic mountain backdrop. The city’s friendly atmosphere is showcased by its carnival scene, which spotlights colorful costumes and samba dancing, perfect for outgoing digital nomads. 

Ranking fourth was Buenos Aires, Argentina, with a score of 61.90 out of 100. Buenos Aires scored highest in grocery affordability, with 9.29 out of 10, alongside restaurant affordability, with 9.03 out of 10. 

The capital city is beloved for its lively neighborhoods and delicious food, offering a haven of passion and excitement for residents and tourists alike. The city will appeal particularly to digital nomads looking for somewhere with a distinctive Latin American flair. 

Rounding out the top five was Beijing, China, with a score of 60.60. Beijing was determined as being best for broadband speed, with a 10 out of 10 score, followed by mobile speed with 9.16 out of 10. 

China’s sprawling capital is home to some of the world’s most ancient buildings, such as The Forbidden City, alongside other historic landmarks and UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Additionally, Beijing’s modern infrastructure and vast professional community cement it as the perfect choice for digital nomads seeking a lively environment. 

Placing sixth was Shanghai, China, with a score of 60.53 out of 100. As the biggest city in the world, Shanghai is a major economic and cultural center offering a haven of excitement for residents and tourists alike. From a vast shopping scene to iconic monuments, Shanghai is perfect for digital nomads hoping to immerse themselves in diverse surroundings. 

Following in seventh place was Madrid, Spain, with a score of 59.97. Spain’s capital has a quaint historic charm that offers something for everyone, particularly art lovers and foodies – whereas the city’s buzzing nightlife scene will be perfect for avid partygoers with bundles of energy. 

In eighth was Budapest, Hungary, with a rating of 59.88. Budapest is one of Europe’s most beloved cities and is a melting pot of different architectural influences. Hungary’s capital is also celebrated for its charming streets, thermal baths and vibrant arts scene, making it the perfect spot to inspire creativity among digital nomads. 

Ranking ninth was Barcelona, Spain, with an index score of 59.87. The busy Spanish metropolis is popular for its warm climate and ornate architecture, such as the iconic Sagrada Família. It’s an ideal choice, particularly for digital nomads wanting to enjoy a mix of culture, history and beautiful weather. 

Completing the top ten was Porto, Portugal, which had an overall index score of 58.74. As one of the oldest cities in Europe, Porto is famous for its fortified wine, traditional Portuguese dishes, and picturesque coastal landscape, which will undoubtedly attract any digital nomad aiming for comforting surroundings while they work. 

Commenting on the findings, Marc Porcar, CEO of QR Code Generator PRO S.L, said: 

“Many people find themselves feeling stuck in their jobs or bored with the routine of their everyday lives, and transitioning to a digital nomad lifestyle can remedy that. 

“Some are put off by expenses and accessibility, but they shouldn’t be, as there are plenty of affordable cities with a lot to offer working professionals. Most of these will accept remote workers with open arms and welcome their contributions to the wider community. 

“Cities such as Bangkok, Bucharest and Rio are appealing spots for those looking to expand their horizons. Not only are they beautiful places with plenty to offer, but they also have ease of access and are relatively inexpensive. Their internet connection, available visa options and affordable cost of living, among other factors, provide an environment for digital nomads to thrive. 

“While it may seem like a huge lifestyle change, being a digital nomad can provide a world of opportunity for many people. Living and working somewhere new can encourage both personal and professional growth, and many individuals will find their lives enriched by immersing themselves in a culture they wouldn’t have otherwise experienced.”