Budget-Friendly Digital Nomad Destinations for 2025

Living in a cheap city always sounds appealing. But for digital nomads, it's not just about cheap accommodation or cheap food. At the end of the day, we still need to work, produce and enjoy. If the internet is bad, the community is weak, the infrastructure is inadequate, it's almost impossible to live in that city for long, no matter how cheap it is.

In compiling this list, we focused not only on costs, but also on livability criteria: fast Wi-Fi, nomadic community, safety, geographical location and ease of daily life. The result? Cities that don't burn a hole in your pocket and don't weigh down your soul. This list of 7 cheap but livable cities for digital nomads is a bit different from the classic “cheapest cities” content because this time our criteria is a bit closer to real life.

Here we go if you are ready.

2. Is the Cheapest Always the Best?

A city may have a low cost of living, but that alone is not enough. Especially if you plan to stay as a digital nomad for a long time, cheap rent alone will not cover all your expenses.

What hidden costs should digital nomads watch out for in cheap cities?

Common hidden costs include visa fees, unreliable internet, private health expenses, and transportation challenges. Even cheap cities can become costly if infrastructure is weak.

Things to consider in cheap cities

In some cities, prices are affordable, but a lack of infrastructure, security issues or cultural differences can make everyday life difficult. Unstable internet or lack of co-working space can put you in a cycle of lost productivity.

Hidden costs

• Visa Fees: Some countries offer easy entry, while others may require high application fees and bank guarantees.

• Health Expenses: The inadequate health system in cheap cities may force you to pay for private insurance or private hospitals.

• Transportation: Even if accommodation is cheap, transportation within the city can be expensive or complicated. Additional expenses may arise such as renting a motorbike or taking frequent transfers.

Vibe Note: Cheapness sometimes seems like a short-term gain, but it can tire you out in the long run. Balance is the most critical criterion.

3. What are the cheapest cities for digital nomads in 2025?

Top cheapest cities for digital nomads in 2025 include Tbilisi, Bali, Ho Chi Minh City, Antalya, Medellín, Da Nang, and Marrakech. These destinations offer a low cost of living, fast Wi-Fi, and strong remote work communities.

1- Tbilisi, Georgia

• Average Monthly Cost of Living: $1,200-$1,600

• Infrastructure: Fast and cheap cafe Wi-Fi, many co-working spaces, strong expat/digital nomad community

• Why This City? Nightlife, history, natural thermal resources; the cost of living is quite affordable.

2- Bali, Indonesia

• Average Monthly Cost of Living: $1,000-$1,500

• Infrastructure: Canggu/Ubud co-workings, average speed 75 Mbps, global nomadic community

• Why This City? It offers a balance of tropical life, activities, yoga, surfing and nature.

3- Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

• Average Monthly Cost of Living: $900-$1,300

• Infrastructure: Large cafe culture, good co-working spaces, very strong mobile internet

• Why This City? Cheap, fast-paced, culturally rich; welcome to food paradise.

4- Antalya, Türkiye

• Average Monthly Cost of Living: $800-$1,200

• Infrastructure: Increased co-working options, fiber internet, tourist-friendly environment in summer and winter

• Why This City? Sea + city + village life at hand; especially in the off-season, it is quite affordable.

5- Medellín, Colombia

• Average Monthly Cost of Living: $1,200-$1,600

• Infrastructure: Modern co-working spaces, fast wireless internet, active digital nomad scene

• Why This City? Spring weather, city events, and local friendships increase.

6- Da Nang, Vietnam

• Average Monthly Cost of Living: $900-$1,300

• Infrastructure: Beachside cafes with Wi-Fi, thriving co-working, peaceful community

• Why This City? Nature + city balance, coastal pleasure, quieter Vietnam alternative.

7- Marrakech, Morocco

• Average Monthly Cost of Living: $1,000-$1,400

• Infrastructure: Modern Wi-Fi in riads, colorful co-working spaces, artistic design-oriented spaces

• Why This City? Europe-Asia-Africa mix, mystical atmosphere, delicious and cheap cuisine

4. Can you live on under $1,000/month as a digital nomad?

Yes, it’s possible to live on under $1,000/month in cities like Antalya, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang. Smart budgeting, local lifestyle, long-term deals, and shared accommodation make it doable.

Negotiate

Especially in places like Asia and North Africa, where haggling is part of the culture, you can significantly reduce the price of accommodation and transportation. The first price quoted is almost never the final price.

Deal for the Long Term

Daily or weekly stays are expensive. Even on Airbnb, you can get a discount if you say you will stay for a month. Direct contact with local hosts is also advantageous.

Eat Local

Instead of touristic restaurants, street food and local artisan restaurants are both cheaper and more authentic. It is also the best way to discover new flavors.

Consider Shared Accommodation

Co-living spaces or renting a room is much cheaper than staying alone. 

Bonus: It's a great opportunity to meet new people!

Vibe Note: Living under $1,000 is not about “suffering” but about making “smart choices”. When you learn to prioritize your spending, you can reduce your costs without reducing your quality of life.

5. Closing: It's Possible to Spend Less and Experience More

Why are these cities ideal for digital nomads, not just cheap?

These cities combine affordability with essentials for nomads, fast internet, community, safety, and lifestyle perks. It’s not just about saving money, but living better for less.

This is what I have learned in the last 2 years: Digital nomad life is not just about opening a laptop under palm trees. Sometimes it is possible to live without breaking the bank by really immersing yourself in a country. Even in the cheapest cities, a full life can be waiting for you, as long as you know where to look.

Spending less money does not mean less enjoyment. Sometimes, on the contrary, you find real experiences in simplicity. New flavors, new friendships, crossing your own boundaries... None of these require luxury.

So which one is for you?

Which of the cities above would you like to live in for a long time? Share in the comments or chat with us!

Hope this guide gave you some clarity! For more real stories, tips, and nomad discoveries, follow NomadVibe on Instagram and YouTube, we’re sharing everything we learn along the way.

And as I always say, until the next post arrivederci folks :)