Where to Live as a Digital Nomad for Less Than $1,500 Per Month

Introduction.

If you’re reading this, chances are you’re looking to live the dream of being a digital nomad without breaking the bank.

The idea of working from anywhere, exploring new countries, and soaking in different cultures sounds amazing, but it often comes with the fear of not being able to afford it. After all, most people think you need a six-figure income to live that lifestyle.

But the truth is, you don’t! It’s entirely possible to live as a digital nomad for under $1,500 a month—yes, you read that right!

There are countless places around the world where the cost of living is low enough to make this dream a reality.

If you’re flexible, adventurous, and open to new experiences, you can live in some incredible spots without burning a hole in your wallet.

In this post, I’m going to walk you through the best locations to live as a digital nomad on a budget, what the cost of living is like, and how you can manage your lifestyle to keep it affordable.

Plus, I’ll throw in some useful tips along the way to help you make the most of your journey. Ready? Let’s dive in!

Best Places to Live as a Digital Nomad for Less Than $1,500 per Month

1. Chiang Mai, Thailand

Chiang Mai has long been a popular spot for digital nomads, and for good reason. This laid-back city in Northern Thailand offers everything you need to live comfortably without spending too much.

You can rent a decent apartment for as little as $300 per month. Eating out? Street food is both delicious and affordable, with meals starting at just $2–$3.

The cost of living in Chiang Mai is among the lowest for any nomadic destination in Southeast Asia, making it ideal for those on a budget. The city also has a strong community of digital nomads, so you won’t be alone in your journey.

You’ll find coworking spaces, cafes, and plenty of opportunities to connect with other like-minded people. And let’s not forget the amazing nature, temples, and markets that Chiang Mai is known for.

Estimated Monthly Expenses:

Rent: $300–$500
Food: $200–$300
Transport: $50
Coworking space: $50–$100
Total: $600–$1,000

2. Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon has become a hot spot for digital nomads in recent years. This charming city offers a perfect mix of history, culture, and modern amenities at an affordable price compared to other European cities.

You can find a studio apartment for around $700–$900 per month, and the food is both tasty and reasonably priced. Plus, Lisbon’s public transportation system is reliable, so getting around the city won’t break the bank.

Though Lisbon is a bit more expensive than places like Chiang Mai, it’s still possible to live here for under $1,500 a month if you budget wisely.

The city is known for its coworking spaces, and the vibrant expat community ensures that you’ll meet fellow digital nomads easily.

Estimated Monthly Expenses:

Rent: $700–$900
Food: $250–$300
Transport: $50
Coworking space: $100–$150
Total: $1,100–$1,400

3. Bali, Indonesia

Bali’s popularity among digital nomads is undeniable, and it’s no surprise why. With its tropical climate, beautiful beaches, and vibrant expat community, Bali offers a low-cost lifestyle that’s perfect for remote workers.

You can find private villas or apartments for as low as $400 per month, and eating out is cheap, with local meals often costing under $3.

The best part? Bali has a huge digital nomad scene, with coworking spaces popping up all over Ubud and Canggu.

These coworking spots offer fast internet, a great atmosphere, and plenty of opportunities to network with other remote workers. The island is also full of things to do, whether you’re into yoga, surfing, or exploring rice terraces.

Estimated Monthly Expenses:

Rent: $400–$700
Food: $200–$300
Transport: $50–$100 (scooter rental)
Coworking space: $100–$150
Total: $750–$1,250

4. Mexico City, Mexico

If you want to experience city life while staying within your budget, Mexico City might be the place for you. It’s one of the most affordable major cities in North America. You can find a comfortable apartment for around $500 per month, and food is inexpensive, with street food tacos costing as little as $1.50.

Mexico City also has an exciting mix of history, art, and modern culture. With great public transportation, vibrant neighborhoods, and plenty of coworking spaces, it’s a fantastic city for digital nomads looking to live well on a budget.

Plus, there’s no shortage of things to do when you need a break from work, from exploring ancient ruins to sampling some of the best cuisine in the world.

Estimated Monthly Expenses:

Rent: $500–$700
Food: $200–$300
Transport: $30
Coworking space: $100–$150
Total: $830–$1,230

5. Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Vietnam is becoming an increasingly popular destination for digital nomads, and Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) is at the heart of it all.

With its low cost of living, HCMC offers everything you need to live comfortably without overspending.

You can rent a basic apartment for $300–$500 per month, and food is extremely affordable. You can get a delicious local meal for around $2–$3.

The city also boasts a growing digital nomad community, and there are plenty of cafes and coworking spaces to choose from. HCMC is fast-paced and full of energy, but it’s also got a mix of modernity and tradition, making it a fascinating place to live and work.

Estimated Monthly Expenses:

Rent: $300–$500
Food: $150–$200
Transport: $40
Coworking space: $50–$100
Total: $540–$840

6. Tbilisi, Georgia

Tbilisi is a hidden gem for digital nomads looking for an affordable place to live in Europe. Georgia’s capital offers a rich history, beautiful landscapes, and a low cost of living. Rent is incredibly cheap, with apartments starting around $400 per month.

The food is also affordable, with meals typically costing $5 or less. Tbilisi’s public transportation system is easy to use and inexpensive.

Georgia also offers a unique visa program for digital nomads called the “Remotely from Georgia” program, which allows remote workers to live and work in the country for up to one year.

The digital nomad community is growing here, and there are coworking spaces available throughout the city.

Estimated Monthly Expenses:

Rent: $400–$600
Food: $200–$250
Transport: $30
Coworking space: $50–$100
Total: $700–$1,000

Tips for Staying Within Budget as a Digital Nomad

Embrace Local Food: Avoid expensive restaurants and eat where the locals do. Street food and local eateries are not only more affordable, but they also give you a taste of authentic local culture.
Choose a Budget-Friendly Neighborhood: When renting, look for neighborhoods that are slightly outside the touristy areas. These places are often cheaper but still close enough to everything you need.
Use Coworking Spaces Wisely: While coworking spaces are a great way to stay productive and meet other digital nomads, they can add up. Look for memberships or pay-as-you-go options to save money. Alternatively, some cafes have good Wi-Fi and are free to work from!
Stay Active with Cheap Transport: In most digital nomad hotspots, public transportation is affordable. Consider renting a scooter if you’re in a place like Bali or Vietnam, where it’s a common and cheap mode of transport.
Be Smart with Communication: Use local SIM cards for data or rely on Wi-Fi in cafes and coworking spaces to avoid expensive roaming charges.

FAQs

1. Is it really possible to live on $1,500 a month as a digital nomad?

Yes, it’s definitely possible! While it depends on your lifestyle, many digital nomads live on far less than $1,500 a month in certain countries. The key is to choose destinations where the cost of living is low, and to be mindful of your spending.

2. How do I find accommodation on a budget?

Websites like Airbnb, Booking.com, and Facebook groups for digital nomads are great places to find affordable accommodation. For longer stays, you can also look into local rental listings or platforms like Nomad List.

3. What if I don’t know the language?

Language barriers can be challenging, but in many countries, especially those popular with digital nomads, English is widely spoken. Learning a few key phrases in the local language can go a long way, though!

Conclusion

Living as a digital nomad on less than $1,500 a month is entirely possible—and honestly, it can be pretty exciting! With so many amazing destinations offering affordable living, the world is your oyster. So, the only question left is: which place will you call your next home?