The rise of remote work has given digital nomads the freedom to live and work from almost anywhere, and North America boasts some of the best cities for those looking to combine work, travel, and lifestyle. From fast internet and coworking spaces to vibrant social scenes and affordable living, these cities cater perfectly to the needs of location-independent workers.
Whether you prefer the energy of big cities or the charm of smaller towns, North America offers a diverse range of destinations that balance productivity with adventure. In this guide, we’ll explore the top 10 digital nomad-friendly cities across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.
1. Austin, Texas, USA
Why It’s Digital Nomad-Friendly
Austin has established itself as a tech hub with a thriving start-up scene, making it a hotspot for digital nomads. Known for its laid-back vibe, live music, and diverse food scene, it offers the perfect balance between work and play.
Key Features
- Fast Internet: High-speed internet is available throughout the city.
- Coworking Spaces: Popular options include WeWork, Impact Hub, and Capital Factory.
- Affordable Cost of Living: Cheaper than major hubs like San Francisco or New York.
Top Things to Do
- Relax at Barton Springs Pool or Lady Bird Lake.
- Enjoy live music at venues like Antone’s or the Moody Theater.
- Feast on local barbecue and tacos (don’t miss Torchy’s Tacos).
Insider Tips
- Visit during SXSW (South by Southwest) to network with tech and creative professionals.
- Summers can be extremely hot—plan indoor work sessions during peak hours.
2. Playa del Carmen, Mexico
Why It’s Digital Nomad-Friendly
Located on the stunning Riviera Maya, Playa del Carmen combines tropical paradise with modern amenities. With its affordable cost of living and growing expat community, it’s a top destination for digital nomads.
Key Features
- Beachside Coworking Spaces: Nest Cowork and Bunker Cowork offer great facilities near the ocean.
- Low Cost of Living: Affordable rentals and food make it ideal for budget-conscious travelers.
- Digital Nomad Scene: A strong and welcoming community of remote workers.
Top Things to Do
- Snorkel or dive in the nearby cenotes (underground sinkholes).
- Take a day trip to the Mayan ruins of Tulum or Chichén Itzá.
- Stroll along Fifth Avenue for shopping, dining, and nightlife.
Insider Tips
- Stay near the center of town for easy access to coworking spaces and cafes.
- The Wi-Fi can be spotty in some areas, so research accommodations with reliable internet.
3. Montreal, Quebec, Canada
Why It’s Digital Nomad-Friendly
Montreal is a vibrant, multicultural city with European charm and North American convenience. It’s known for its affordable cost of living (compared to Toronto or Vancouver) and thriving tech and arts scenes.
Key Features
- Coworking Spaces: Espace Nomad and Crew Collective & Café are popular among remote workers.
- Affordable Rentals: Especially in neighborhoods like Plateau-Mont-Royal and Verdun.
- Cultural Richness: Bilingualism (French and English) adds a unique flavor.
Top Things to Do
- Explore Old Montreal’s cobblestone streets and historic buildings.
- Indulge in the city’s famous bagels and poutine.
- Visit Mount Royal for panoramic views of the city.
Insider Tips
- Winters are cold—be prepared with warm clothes if you plan to stay during this time.
- Summer is full of festivals, including the Montreal International Jazz Festival and Just for Laughs.
4. Boulder, Colorado, USA
Why It’s Digital Nomad-Friendly
Set against the stunning backdrop of the Rocky Mountains, Boulder is perfect for nomads who value outdoor adventures and a thriving entrepreneurial spirit. The city is eco-friendly, bikeable, and brimming with coworking spaces.
Key Features
- Outdoor Lifestyle: Hiking, biking, and rock climbing opportunities abound.
- Tech Scene: A hub for startups and innovation.
- Coworking Spaces: Check out Galvanize Boulder and Impact Hub Boulder.
Top Things to Do
- Hike the Flatirons or explore the Boulder Creek Path.
- Sample craft beer at local breweries like Avery Brewing Co.
- Stroll along Pearl Street for shopping and dining.
Insider Tips
- The cost of living is higher than average, so consider renting in nearby towns like Longmont.
- Arrive early to hiking trails to avoid crowds, especially on weekends.
5. Mexico City, Mexico
Why It’s Digital Nomad-Friendly
Mexico City, or CDMX, is a bustling metropolis that combines history, culture, and modern amenities. With its affordable cost of living and vibrant neighborhoods, it’s quickly becoming a favorite for remote workers.
Key Features
- Coworking Spaces: Centraal and WeWork are popular choices.
- Affordable Living: Rent, food, and transportation are budget-friendly.
- Cultural Richness: Museums, historic landmarks, and world-class dining abound.
Top Things to Do
- Visit the Frida Kahlo Museum in Coyoacán.
- Explore Chapultepec Park and its many attractions.
- Enjoy authentic street tacos and churros.
Insider Tips
- Stay in neighborhoods like Roma or Condesa for a mix of charm and convenience.
- Beware of traffic—plan your days around peak hours to save time.
6. Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
Why It’s Digital Nomad-Friendly
Vancouver is the perfect city for nomads who crave both urban energy and access to nature. With its reliable infrastructure, fast internet, and breathtaking scenery, it’s a popular spot for remote workers.
Key Features
- Outdoor Access: Close to mountains, forests, and the ocean.
- Coworking Spaces: L’Atelier and The Network Hub are great options.
- Cultural Diversity: A melting pot of cultures, reflected in its food and arts scene.
Top Things to Do
- Bike around Stanley Park’s Seawall.
- Visit Granville Island for artisan goods and local food.
- Hit the slopes at nearby Whistler in the winter.
Insider Tips
- Vancouver is one of Canada’s priciest cities, so consider shared housing to save on rent.
- Rain is frequent—pack an umbrella and enjoy the cozy coffee shops.
7. Nashville, Tennessee, USA
Why It’s Digital Nomad-Friendly
Known as the “Music City,” Nashville offers a lively atmosphere, fast-growing tech opportunities, and a welcoming community. With its Southern charm and affordable living, it’s a rising star for digital nomads.
Key Features
- Fast Wi-Fi: High-speed internet across most of the city.
- Coworking Spaces: Popular options include Industrious and The Lab.
- Affordable Housing: Reasonable rents in trendy neighborhoods like East Nashville.
Top Things to Do
- Listen to live music at the iconic Bluebird Café.
- Walk along Broadway for nightlife and honky-tonks.
- Indulge in Nashville’s famous hot chicken.
Insider Tips
- Nashville is rapidly growing, so traffic can be unpredictable—plan your commute carefully.
- Visit during the CMA Fest for an immersive music experience.
8. San Diego, California, USA
Why It’s Digital Nomad-Friendly
San Diego combines a laid-back beach lifestyle with a burgeoning startup scene. With near-perfect weather year-round, it’s one of the most livable cities for remote workers.
Key Features
- Coworking Spaces: Outsite San Diego and DeskHub are popular among digital nomads.
- Beachside Living: Work from cafes near iconic beaches like La Jolla and Mission Beach.
- Healthy Lifestyle: Tons of outdoor activities like surfing, hiking, and yoga.
Top Things to Do
- Watch the sunset at Sunset Cliffs.
- Explore Balboa Park and its museums.
- Take a day trip to nearby Tijuana, Mexico.
Insider Tips
- The cost of living is high—look for budget-friendly rentals in areas like Ocean Beach.
- Public transportation is limited, so having a car or bike is helpful.
9. Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Why It’s Digital Nomad-Friendly
As Canada’s largest city, Toronto offers a dynamic blend of business opportunities, cultural experiences, and top-notch infrastructure. Its diverse population makes it an exciting place to work and live.
Key Features
- Coworking Spaces: Make Lemonade and Workplace One cater to remote workers.
- Connectivity: Excellent public transit and fast Wi-Fi.
- Cultural Attractions: World-class museums, theaters, and events.
Top Things to Do
- Visit the iconic CN Tower.
- Stroll along the Distillery District’s cobblestone streets.
- Enjoy multicultural food in neighborhoods like Kensington Market.
Insider Tips
- Winters can be brutal, so plan your stay for spring, summer, or fall.
- Accommodations can be pricey—consider Airbnb or staying outside the downtown core.
10. Portland, Oregon, USA
Why It’s Digital Nomad-Friendly
Portland’s creative energy, thriving coffee culture, and eco-friendly ethos make it a magnet for digital nomads. The city is also known for its abundance of coworking spaces and a strong remote work community.
Key Features
- Coworking Spaces: CENTRL Office and Hatch Lab are popular choices.
- Walkable City: Compact neighborhoods with bike-friendly streets.
- Affordable Options: Lower cost of living compared to other West Coast cities.
Top Things to Do
- Explore Powell’s City of Books, the largest independent bookstore in the world.
- Visit local food trucks for a variety of cuisines.
- Hike in Forest Park or visit Multnomah Falls nearby.
Insider Tips
- Portland is known for its quirky vibe—embrace the culture and check out unique spots like Voodoo Doughnut.
- Winters are rainy, so bring a good rain jacket.
FAQs
1. What makes a city digital nomad-friendly?
Fast internet, coworking spaces, affordable living costs, a vibrant social scene, and access to outdoor or cultural activities are key factors.
2. Which city offers the best balance of cost and amenities?
Playa del Carmen and Mexico City are among the most affordable options, offering great amenities at a fraction of the cost of U.S. or Canadian cities.
3. Can I live in these cities without a car?
Yes! Many of these cities, like Toronto, Montreal, and Mexico City, have excellent public transportation systems, while others, like Austin and Boulder, are bike-friendly.
4. Are these cities safe for solo travelers?
Most of these cities are generally safe, but it’s always important to follow basic safety precautions, like being aware of your surroundings and securing your belongings.
5. Do these cities have good healthcare facilities?
Yes, especially cities in Canada and the U.S., where healthcare is world-class. Mexico also has excellent private hospitals for a fraction of the cost.
6. Are these cities family-friendly for nomads with kids?
Yes! Cities like Boulder, San Diego, and Nashville offer family-friendly neighborhoods, parks, and schools, making them great options for digital nomad families.
7. How do I meet other digital nomads?
Join coworking spaces, attend meetups, or use platforms like Meetup and Facebook Groups to connect with like-minded people.
8. What’s the best time to visit these cities?
It depends on the location—Montreal and Toronto are best in summer, while San Diego and Playa del Carmen are great year-round.
9. Can I rent short-term housing in these cities?
Yes, platforms like Airbnb, Vrbo, and local rental groups cater to short-term and long-term stays.
10. Do these cities offer reliable internet?
Most of these cities have excellent internet infrastructure. However, in some rural areas near Playa del Carmen, the connection can be slower—check with your accommodation before booking.