7 Best Cities for Remote Workers in 2025

As I write this, the sun is finally shining, the temperature is rising, and all I can think about is escaping somewhere cooler, maybe with a crisp white wine or a well-brewed chamomile tea in hand. But for now, all I can do is dream.

You, on the other hand, don’t have to. The beauty of remote work is that you can take your job anywhere, and to help you do that, I’ve put together seven of the best cities to work from in 2025.

One last thing before we dive in, hope you have a global bank account that makes it easy to manage your finances across different countries. With Geegpay, you can create multi-currency accounts in USD, GBP, EUR, and your local currency. Plus, you can pay for anything easily with your Geegpay virtual dollar card. So if you don’t, open one now. 

Now, without further ado, let’s take a look at the cities.

1. Lisbon, Portugal

Portugal has been topping the charts as a remote work hotspot, and for good reason. Lisbon, its vibrant capital, is the perfect mix of old-world charm and modern convenience. With an extensive network of co-working spaces, affordable cost of living compared to other European capitals, and a buzzing digital nomad community, Lisbon is one of the best cities for digital nomads in 2025, offering a great blend of culture and affordability.

Why Lisbon?

• Portugal’s digital nomad visa makes it easy to stay long-term.
• Excellent weather almost year-round.
• Affordable cost of living, especially compared to cities like London or Paris.
• Great public transport, fast Wi-Fi, and a growing community of remote workers.
• Pastéis de nata. Enough said.

If you love ocean views, cobblestone streets, and an endless supply of great food and wine, Lisbon should be at the top of your list.

🔗ICYMI, Portugal offers digital nomad visas. See our article on Top Countries Offering Digital Nomad Visas in 2025 and How to Apply for how to apply

2. Mexico City, Mexico

If you love the energy of a big city, Mexico City is an exciting, dynamic, and surprisingly affordable place for remote workers. It’s got everything from fast Wi-Fi, co-working spaces, an incredible food scene, to a rich culture that blends history with modern living.

Why Mexico City?

• Relatively low cost of living compared to U.S. and European cities.
• A strong expat and digital nomad community.
• Good weather which is mild and pleasant year-round.
• Fantastic food, from street tacos to Michelin-starred restaurants.
• Great connectivity to the U.S. and Latin America.

If you want the convenience of a major city but still crave vibrant culture, affordability, and fantastic food, Mexico city is the place to be.

3. Chiang Mai, Thailand

Another favorite among digital nomads, Chiang Mai continues to be one of the best cities for remote workers in 2025. It’s affordable, has great infrastructure, and is surrounded by stunning mountains and temples.

Why Chiang Mai?

• Incredibly low cost of living. Here, your money stretches far.
• A well-established digital nomad community with plenty of networking opportunities.
• Amazing local food at unbeatable prices.
• Plenty of co-working spaces, fast internet, and great cafés to work from.
• Easy access to nature, from waterfalls to hiking trails.

If you want a slower pace of life while still being part of a thriving digital nomad hub, Chiang Mai is your best bet.

4. Medellín, Colombia

Once known for its turbulent past, Medellín has completely transformed into one of the most innovative and livable cities in Latin America. It’s safe, affordable, and packed with coworking spaces and coffee shops perfect for remote work.

Why Medellín?

• The ‘City of Eternal Spring’ has perfect weather all year long.
• One of the most affordable cities for remote workers in South America.
• Great infrastructure, reliable internet, and plenty of co-working spaces.
• A growing expat and remote work community.
• Stunning landscapes, from lush mountains to nearby coffee plantations.

If you want a mix of nature, city life, and affordability, Medellín is worth considering.

5. Barcelona, Spain

For those of you who want a European city with a lively atmosphere, beaches, and a thriving remote work scene, Barcelona is hard to beat. It’s got world-class food, stunning architecture, and plenty of networking opportunities for digital nomads.

Why Barcelona?

• Gorgeous Mediterranean weather.
• A strong freelancer community.
• Great public transport and walkability.
• Amazing food—think tapas, seafood, and wine.
• Beautiful beaches to unwind after work.

It’s not the cheapest city on this list, but if you want a mix of culture, city life, and beachside relaxation, Barcelona is a fantastic choice.

6. Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) has become a digital nomad favorite thanks to its affordability, thriving start-up scene, and fast-paced lifestyle. It’s got amazing food, a great coffee culture, and an exciting energy that makes it an ideal base for remote workers.

Why Ho Chi Minh City?

• Extremely affordable cost of living.
• A lively expat and digital nomad scene.
• Some of the best coffee in the world.
• Plenty of coworking spaces and fast internet.
• A great base for exploring Southeast Asia.

If you thrive in high-energy environments and love street food, Ho Chi Minh City is an exciting place to work remotely.

7. And finally, Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Town is one of the most breathtakingly beautiful cities in the world, and it’s also gaining popularity among remote workers. It offers an unbeatable mix of nature, vibrant city life, and affordability.

Why Cape Town?

• Stunning landscapes, from Table Mountain to pristine beaches.
• A relatively low cost of living compared to Western cities.
• A growing digital nomad scene with plenty of co-working spaces.
• Fantastic food and wine culture.
• Outdoor adventures like hiking, surfing, and wildlife safaris.

If you want to work with a view of mountains and the ocean while still enjoying city comforts, Cape Town is an excellent choice.

Incase you still need more insight to make a decision on which city to choose, here are some frequently asked questions:

1. What are the best websites to research remote work-friendly cities?

Websites like Nomad List, Teleport, and Expatistan provide insights on cost of living, internet speed, and overall quality of life in cities around the world. Reddit and Facebook groups also have firsthand experiences from remote workers.

2. How do I check the cost of living before moving to a new city?

Platforms like Numbeo, Expatistan, and local rental websites give an estimate of monthly expenses, including rent, food, transportation, and utilities. Joining online expat communities can also help you get real-time insights from people already living there.

3. Where can I find information on digital nomad visas?

Websites like VisaGuide, Nomad Capitalist, and government immigration pages provide up-to-date details on visa options for remote workers. Many travel bloggers also break down the application process for specific countries.

4. How do remote workers receive international payments?

When getting international payments, it’s important to choose a platform with low fees and good exchange rates. Freelancers and remote workers use platforms like Geegpay’s multi-currency wallet to receive and convert payments in multiple currencies.

5. How do I find co-living and co-working spaces in a new city?

Websites like Nomad List, Coworker, and Facebook expat groups help remote workers find co-living spaces and co-working offices. Many cities also have dedicated communities for networking and socializing.

In all, each of these cities offer something unique, whether it’s affordability, community, or breathtaking scenery. So the real question is, where will you go first? And of course, wherever you decide to go, don’t forget to take Geegpay with you.

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