Spain
Over three million digital nomads are living and working in Spain. The country has an excellent infrastructure, with high-speed internet and a wide range of coworking spaces. Spain also offers an excellent quality of life, with a temperate climate, Mediterranean food, and a relaxed lifestyle.
Spain Internet Speed
With an average internet speed of 88.73 Mbps, Spain isn't quite on par with Portugal – but it's undoubtedly one of the faster European countries when it comes to internet speeds, and you'll find that this speed is more than enough to support your digital nomad lifestyle.
Median broadband speeds 2022: 134 Mbps download, 100 Mbps upload.
Cost of Living in Spain
In Spain, the cost of living is relatively low. You can get by on a budget of around 2,500 Euros per month; however, as Spain is a vast country, the cost of living will vary depending on where you live. Barcelona is the most expensive city in Spain, while rural areas are much cheaper.
Here's a breakdown of key monthly estimates in Spain:
Rent: 744 Euros
Basic Utilities (Electricity, Heating, Water, and Internet/Phone): 161 Euros
Transport (public or private car): 200 Euros, but cars are optional as most villages are set up for walking
Groceries: 335 Euros
Entertainment (Going Out, Movies, etc.): 558 Euros
Based on data from International Living
Visa & Taxes
There is currently a digital nomad visa in process that the Spanish government is working on to make it easier for digital nomads to stay in the country for an extended period. Spain also has a relatively low tax rate, so it's a great place to keep your money saved.
Until this visa is implemented, if you plan to work in Spain, you will need to get one of several work visas. However, getting a work visa is relatively straightforward, and there are plenty of English-speaking lawyers who can help you through the process.
Security
According to the Global Peace Index, Spain is the 38th safest country in the world. There are strict gun laws, public transport is safe as houses, and there is an extremely low record of violent crime. The only crime to look out for is petty theft and pickpocketing.
Weather
With a relatively mild climate all year round, Spain offers 3,000 hours of glorious sunshine per year and moderate temperatures. Hot seasons can reach around 30 degrees centigrade, while cold seasons will only call for light winter wear.
Digital Nomad Community
Spain's Canary Islands are already home to a thriving community of digital nomads. Other Spanish cities are beginning to see more and more foreigners pour in for the remote work life. Valencia is one of the best cities to choose from if you are thinking of moving here as it has fast internet, and coworking spaces like Wayco are continually popping up.
To see exactly how you can live in Spain as a digital nomad, read our guide.
Germany
With a developed economy and quality infrastructure, Germany is a great option for digital nomads. The country offers a high quality of life, good healthcare and education systems, and strong internet infrastructure. Additionally, Germany has many beautiful cities to explore, such as Berlin and Munich.
Germany Internet Speed
In terms of internet speeds, Germany doesn't fare particularly well; in fact, it is only half the speed of South Korea and sits below many of the other countries listed here. However, the country has managed to double its speed over the past decade and will continue to develop. Plus, with the right provider, you'll be able to access more than enough data for your work needs.
Median broadband speeds 2022: 69 Mbps download, 23 Mbps upload.
Cost of Living in Germany
Compared to other European countries, Germany's cost of living is relatively low – so you will often hear of students and remote workers relocating to enjoy the country's culture and scenery.
Here's a breakdown of key monthly estimates in Germany:
Rent: 662 to 1,436 Euros
Basic Utilities (Electricity, Heating, Water, and Internet/Phone): 243 to 313 Euros
Public Transport: 76 to 100 Euros
Groceries: 224 Euros
Entertainment (Going Out, Movies, etc.): 176 Euros dining out, 33 Euros gym membership
Information from Expatica
Visa & Taxes
If you have EU residency, you will not require a visa or residence permit to enter Germany; however, you will need to register with the city you relocate to if you plan on staying longer than three months.
For short-term stays, a Business Visa or Schengen Visa will allow you to stay and work for up to 90 days. Germany also offers the Freelance Visa, which can be extended for up to three years.
If you spend less than six months in Germany, you are considered a non-resident by tax definition and are only taxed on income sourced in Germany through German resources. After six months, you will be taxed on your worldwide income.
Security
While gun ownership is permitted in Germany, and there are high numbers of gun owners, the country has some of the world's strictest laws surrounding them. Germany is also ranked as the 22nd safest country, which is far safer than the United States.
Weather
Germany's four distinct seasons make for a well-rounded weather experience (depending, of course, on the duration of your stay). Winters feature freezing temperatures and snow, but summers do not reach great heights; so if you love the cold, this may be the best place for you.
Digital Nomad Community
As a digital nomad in Germany, it's worth paying a little extra to live and work in the city of Berlin. Coworking spaces are growing rampantly in this city, such as Factory Berlin and Co.Up., meaning you can work in the company of other digital nomads.
Romania
As a digital nomad in Romania, you will enjoy a low cost of living, a wide range of co-working spaces, and an abundance of intriguing natural and cultural attractions. In recent years, the country has been rapidly growing with a strong technology sector and a young, vibrant population. You will find plenty of opportunities to network with other entrepreneurs and grow your business.
Romania Internet Speed
If you are moving to Romania, the good news is that this country has some of the best internet infrastructures in the region. It ranked 4th out of 175 countries in 2021 and continues to provide a secure connection for both digital nomads and everyday citizens alike.
Median broadband speeds 2022: 127 Mbps download, 94 Mbps upload.
Cost of Living in Romania
Due to inflation, the cost of living in Romania continues to grow; it is expected to go up by 10% in 2022. Compared to living in the US or Australia, however – and even other EU countries – the cost of living is very reasonable. Here's a breakdown of key monthly estimates in Romania:
Rent: 400 Euros
Basic Utilities (Electricity, Heating, Water, and Internet/Phone): 125 Euros
Transport: Fuel approx. 1.40 Euros/L
Groceries: 20 Euros
Entertainment/eating out: 10 to 25 Euros
Information from Expat Arrivals
Visa & Taxes
The type of visa you will need to live and work in Romania depends on the type of resident you are. If you're an EU citizen, you will not require permits to live or work there. Holders of a Schengen visa can enter and stay in the country for up to 90 days.
In 2022, Romania's government is implementing the digital nomad visa, which will allow you to live and work in Romania for employers outside the country. This type of visa will be long-term and will need to be renewed after six months (view finer details here).
Non-resident individuals must pay taxes on any income sourced within Romania, which is currently subject to a rate of 16%. If you spend 183 days in a year on Romanian soil, you will then be taxed on worldwide income – not just what you earn in Romania.
Security
In general, the only crimes you'll need to look out for as a nomad in Romania are petty theft and pickpocketing. Due to the crashed economy, financial scams and fraud are also common – but these can be easily avoided with due caution.
Weather
Romania, especially in the northern parts, sees rain for most days of the year due to its oceanic climate. June and September have the most amicable temperatures, sitting between 24-27 degrees; however, temperatures will generally stay in the 20s no matter what time of year you go.
Digital Nomad Community
At the moment, there are no prominent communities of digital nomads. Romania is still building up to earning its status as a nomadic hotspot; however, the locals are considered friendly and helpful. You'll likely interact with many English-speaking people during your stay.
Czechia
Living in Czechia as a digital nomad is an excellent choice. The cost of living is low, the internet is fast and reliable, and there are plenty of coworking spaces and cafes that offer free or cheap wifi. Prague is the most popular city for digital nomads in Czechia, but there are also many other great cities and towns to choose from, including Brno, Ostrava, and Plzen.
Czechia is a member of the European Union, so you'll have freedom of movement throughout the EU. The country is also part of the Schengen Area, which means you can travel freely between Czechia and other Schengen countries without showing your passport.
Czechia Internet Speed
Czechia was once ranked among the fastest internet speeds but has been declining slightly since 2017. Still, you'll be more than covered when working from your laptop with the many providers to choose from, such as Starnet, T-Mobile, and Vodafone.
Median broadband speeds 2022: 47 Mbps download, 18 Mbps upload.
Cost of Living in Czechia
Living in Czechia is considered highly affordable for students, so as a digital nomad, you will have no worries about making ends meet. The cost of living ranges between 350-750 Euros per month.
Rent: 521 Euros
Basic Utilities (Electricity, Heating, Water, and Internet/Phone): 122 Euros
Transport: Monthly ticket 22 Euros
Groceries: 290 Euros
Entertainment/eating out: 150 Euros
Information from LivingCost.org
Visa & Taxes
To work long-term in Czechia, you can obtain their version of the digital nomad visa called Zivnostenske poraveni. This is a long-term work visa that will allow you to work as a freelancer in the Czech Republic for between six and twelve months.
If you stay for less than 183 days in Czechia, you will not be taxed unless you are also working for a Czech company or making money through Czech assets and resources. After the 183 days is up, you'll become a tax resident and will be taxed depending on the amount you earn (max 23%), regardless of the location of your employee.
Security
Czechia is considered one of the safest countries in the world by the Global Peace Index. Communities are very safe, crime rates are low, and health facilities are clean and well-equipped. It's also difficult to obtain any weaponry.
Weather
Residing in the temperate climate zone, Czechia experiences mild hot seasons and cloudy winters, with humidity persisting all year round. The weather here is more predictable according to the seasons than in other countries.
Digital Nomad Community
In Prague, the capital city of the Czech Republic, you'll find plenty of coworking spaces to bolster your digital nomad lifestyle. Centers like the Impact Hub are home to like-minded individuals, many of which are students, expats, and nomads. Additionally, there are many Facebook forums you can join to chat about nomadic living in Czechia.
Croatia
Croatia is another excellent option for digital nomads. This country is located on the Adriatic Sea and is known for its stunning coastline, crystal-clear waters, and ancient ruins. The cost of living is also relatively low in Croatia, making it a great option for budget-minded digital nomads. Additionally, it's easy to find good internet connections in Croatia, and the locals are known for being friendly and welcoming.
Croatia Internet Speed
Unfortunately, Croatia is among the worst on this list for broadband internet connectivity; however, it does rank 14th in the world for mobile connection speeds in 2022. So long as you can get a secure provider or enough data through your mobile hotspot, you will have no trouble accessing your work here.
Median broadband speeds 2022: 39 Mbps download, 17 Mbps upload.
Cost of Living in Croatia
Moving from somewhere like the United States to Croatia can cut your costs by nearly 50%, giving nomads a great incentive to move here. So long as you avoid the highly tourist-focused accommodation choices, you'll be set with a low cost of living.
Rent: 440 Euros
Basic Utilities (Electricity, Heating, Water, and Internet/Phone): 113 Euros
Internet Plan: 26.50 Euros
Transport: Monthly ticket 50 Euros
Groceries: 335 Euros
Entertainment/eating out: 100 Euros
Information from LivingCost.org
Visa & Taxes
As of January 2021, Croatia began offering temporary residence visas to attract digital nomads to work and live in the country. Where it was once more difficult for non-EU citizens to reside in the country, now there is a new longer-term option up for grabs.
For more permanent stays, or if you want to work for a company within Croatia, you need to obtain a work and residence permit; the digital nomad visa will only allow you to work for non-Croatian employers.
If you stay in Croatia for 183 days over two years, you'll become a tax resident and will be taxed 20% or 30%, depending on your income. Non-residents only pay tax on income from Croatian employers or through Croatian assets.
Security
As the 19th-safest country in the world, you can feel secure and confident as a temporary resident of Croatia. Pickpockets and scammers are still present, like in most EU countries – but in terms of violent crime, you won't need to worry.
Weather
Winters in Croatia are generally mild, but summers can be fairly hot – almost the opposite to Germany. If you like heat, you'll enjoy the summer months of July through August. Winter lovers can travel inland for colder temperatures away from coastal breezes.
Digital Nomad Community
If you want to get work done in Croatia, the places to be are probably Split or Zagreb. Both cities have a growing number of coworking spaces available where other digital nomads frequently work. On the weekends, that's the time to enjoy tourist and party life in Dubrovnik!
Malta
Looking for a Mediterranean country with great weather, food, and a relaxed lifestyle? Malta should be at the top of your list. English is an official language, internet speeds are some of the best in Europe, and living costs are relatively low.
Malta Internet Speed
Malta's mobile speeds are some of the lowest in the EU. Still, according to recent research, the country is showing promise in the areas of broadband speed, network readiness, and artificial intelligence. The country is undoubtedly progressing, and, in the meantime, you'll be able to find providers for your work-from-laptop needs.
Median broadband speeds 2022: 90 Mbps download, 18 Mbps upload.
Cost of Living in Malta
The last few years have seen rental prices increase in Malta; however, it is still a lot cheaper to live here than in the US and some other European countries. The majority of monthly payments will be spent on your rental fees.
Rent: 800 Euros
Basic Utilities (Electricity, Heating, Water, and Internet/Phone): 240 Euros
Transport: 50 Euros
Groceries: 500 Euros
Entertainment/eating out: 250 Euros
Figures from International Living
Visa & Taxes
EU residents can enjoy the digital nomad life in Malta without any additional visa arrangements; however, for non-EU travelers, you need a visa. You can obtain Malta's Nomad Residence Permit, implemented especially for nomads!
With this permit, you can stay and work in Malta for one year, provided that you are working for employers outside of Malta itself. If you want to be able to work in Malta, you'll need to get one of the country's regular work permits, which typically have a longer process.
Like most other EU countries, unless you reside in Malta for more than 183 days, you will only be taxed on income earned through Malta. After that time has elapsed, your worldwide income will be taxed progressively between 0% and 35%. You'll also need to contribute a social security payment of 10% each week.
Security
Bag-snatchers and petty criminals are the security risks to look out for in Malta, especially on the more popular bus routes. It's also a good idea to keep an eye out when using ATM machines or idling in your car.
Weather
Malta is among the warmest countries in Europe. Like Spain, Malta experiences 3,000 hours of sunshine per year – so sun lovers, this is your chance! However, Malta experiences all of the extremes, so you'll want to pack for every scenario if you choose to move here.
Digital Nomad Community
Malta is rapidly becoming the place-to-be for digital nomads, and as such, you won't be alone in your remote working endeavors. There are numerous coworking spaces to facilitate a productive workday, such as SOHO Office Space and 230works.
Greece
Already one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, Greece is also emerging as a hot spot for digital nomads. The country's relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle, combined with its robust infrastructure and low cost of living, has made it a magnet for location-independent entrepreneurs.
Greece's biggest draw is its affordability. A full three-course meal can be had for as little as 10 euros, and a cup of coffee costs just 2.50 euros.
Greece Internet Speed
Greece has some of the slowest and most expensive internet in the EU; however, the cost of living being relatively low in comparison to other countries helps to balance this out. Make sure to research the best internet areas before planning your trip, especially if your job will require powerful internet.
Median broadband speeds 2022: 33 Mbps download, 4 Mbps upload.
Cost of Living in Greece
Greece is considered cheaper than most other EU countries, and it still manages to maintain a high quality of life despite this, which is a great success (and all the more reason to move there!)
Rent: 650 Euros
Basic Utilities (Electricity, Heating, Water, and Internet/Phone): 120 Euros
Incidentals: 150 Euros
Groceries: 230 Euros
Entertainment/eating out: 400 Euros
Information from International Living
Visa & Taxes
In 2021, a provision of the Greek Immigration Code changed visa arrangements so that digital nomads – people working for non-Greek companies through digital technology – could live and work in Greece for 12 months. For this, you need to show proof that you will be actively working for an entity outside of Greece.
As a foreign or non-resident in Greece, you will only be taxed on income, not possessions – and only after 183 days of residing in the country have passed. Tax rates are progressive, starting at 9% and ranging up to 44%.
Security
You are highly unlikely to encounter violent crime while walking the streets of Greece, as the overall risk for this country is ranked 'LOW'. Keep an eye out for petty crime, and you should remain secure for the duration of your stay.
Weather
Greek's Mediterranean climate is generally mild and wet in winter, dry and warm in summer. It's sunny most of the year, as you'll see in the beautifully bright pictures posted by tourists and locals. If you choose to live in the northernmost parts, just remember to pack warm clothes for winter.
Digital Nomad Community
If you are heading to Greece for your digital nomad debut, Athens is the place to be. Here, you'll find many well-established co-working facilities like Impact Hub, Selina Theatre, and ViOS, where you can work productively and be motivated by other nomads working around you.
Hungary
This may not be the first country that comes to mind when you think of digital nomads, but Hungary is quickly becoming a hotspot for them. Budapest, in particular, is a great city for digital nomads, with its vibrant nightlife, affordable housing, and ample networking opportunity.
Hungary Internet Speed
In terms of internet, Hungary has the edge over many other EU countries. Movies can be downloaded within seconds, and the country's thriving film industry means that internet speed and strength are both prioritized. You'll have no trouble with the internet in Hungary.
Median broadband speeds 2022: 100 Mbps download, 27 Mbps upload.
Cost of Living in Hungary
In the 2020 Mercer cost of Living Survey, Hungary ranked 170th of 209 cities – which may be one of the contributing factors to its immense popularity! It is a far cheaper option than Britain or the US.
Rent: 369 Euros
Basic Utilities (Electricity, Heating, Water, and Phone): 95 Euros
Internet: 15 Euros
Groceries: 260 Euros
Eating out: 30 Euros
Information from LivingCost.org
Visa & Taxes
Hungary has its own variation on the digital nomad visa – the 'White Card'. With the White Card, you can live and work in Hungary for up to one year, so long as you are working for someone outside of Hungary.
Hungary has a flat income tax rate of 15%; however, you'll only need to pay this if you spend 183 days in habitual residence there. After the 183 days, you will be taxed on all worldwide income.
Security
Of 163 countries rated by the Global Peace Index, Hungary comes in at 15th place. This is because, for a populated country, there is an incredibly low rate of crime. Many famous actors and actresses in the film industry have described walking through local areas at night as completely safe. Just make sure you are aware of the occasional pickpocket.
Weather
If you move to Hungary and live there during winter, expect some freezing temperatures; outside of winter, however, the climate is moderate with warm summers, and the weather can usually be described as perfect!
Digital Nomad Community
Budapest is not only one of the most famous cities in the world; it's also home to a rapidly growing community of digital nomads. Budapest is the perfect mix of cultural heritage and modernization – so you can enjoy the beautiful scenery and historic monuments whilst making the most of local coworking spaces.
Digital nomads in Hungary use the Meetup app and Facebook to arrange networking and social events, so make sure you connect with those forums upon arrival.
Estonia
Estonia is known for being easy, fun, and affordable living for digital nomads. The country has a great infrastructure and online capabilities; it offers excellent opportunities for entrepreneurs, with start-up visas available to those who want to establish their business within the country.
English is widely spoken, and you can get by without speaking Estonian – just be sure to learn a few key phrases!
Estonia Internet Speed
Estonia doesn't have the best internet speeds in Europe; however, it ranks 22nd in the world and is more than sufficient for doing remote work. The average speed is continuing to rise, which means your remote working experience will likely improve the longer you are there.
Median broadband speeds 2022: 52 Mbps download, 38 Mbps upload.
Cost of Living in Estonia
Considered highly affordable, Estonia is among the cheapest of the European countries for cost of living. Most of the differentiation occurs between accommodation choices and lifestyle habits.
Rent: 529 Euros
Basic Utilities (Electricity, Heating, Water, and Phone): 130 Euros
Internet: 23 Euros
Groceries: 342 Euros
Eating out: 45 Euros
Information from LivingCost.org
Visa & Taxes
Like many other EU countries, Estonia has now launched its Digital Nomad Visa for those who want to work remotely within the country. Instead of working unlawfully with a tourist visa, nomads can now legally live and work for their remote companies for up to one year with this new Visa.
In Estonia, the income tax rate is 20%. You will be taxed on worldwide income only after you've lived in the country for 183 out of 12 consecutive months; until then, you won't need to pay tax so long as you're working for a remote employer.
Security
Tallinn, the capital city of Estonia, can get dangerous from time to time – as is the case for any other major city. Apart from that, Estonia is incredibly safe, with low rates of any type of crime. The risk is considered 'LOW'.
Weather
Estonia's maritime temperate climate features all of the seasons. However, summers and winters are generally mild in temperature. There is the occasional snow in winter, but rainfall levels are low.
Digital Nomad Community
In bigger cities like Tallinn and Tartu, you'll find readily available coworking spaces for your daily grind. They can be rented for a monthly fee and are well worth the money for the social aspect and peer motivation. In terms of networking, you can look up the Digital Nomad Estonia Facebook page and connect with other nomads in the area.
