Best North America Digital Nomad Experiences for 2023

In 2023, the landscape for digital nomads has never been more vibrant and diverse. With remote work becoming increasingly viable, digital nomads are seeking out the best destinations to live and work. From bustling cities to tranquil beach towns, North America offers a plethora of options for every type of remote worker. Here are the top 10 destinations in North America that promise an unforgettable digital nomad experience in 2023.

Key Takeaways

• Mexico City offers a vibrant cultural scene and affordable living costs.
• Vancouver is known for its stunning natural beauty and high quality of life.
• Austin boasts a thriving tech scene and a lively music culture.
• Toronto is a multicultural hub with excellent public services and amenities.
• Playa del Carmen provides a perfect blend of beach life and coworking spaces.

1. Mexico City

Vibrant Expat Community

Mexico City is a chaotic shambles of a city but has a great expat community. This bustling metropolis is especially favoured by travellers working abroad as English teachers. The city offers a unique blend of modernity and tradition, making it an exciting place to live and work.

Affordable Living

One of the biggest draws for digital nomads is the affordability. Average monthly expenses range from $800 to $1500 USD, making it a budget-friendly option for many. From cheap tacos to affordable housing, your money goes a long way here.

Rich Cultural Life

Mexico City boasts a rich cultural life, with frequent community events, dining options, and amenities for both budget and luxury travelers. The city is conveniently located near ancient archeological sites, cenotes (underground rivers), and beaches, offering plenty of opportunities for exploration.

While Mexico City doesn’t offer the beaches of other popular Mexico digital nomad spots like Playa del Carmen or Tulum, what it lacks in sea and sand, it makes up for in vibrant city life and cultural experiences.

Easy Visa Process

Most nationalities can get up to a 365-day visa on arrival. There are also easy pathways to permanent residency, making it convenient for long-term stays.

Best Time to Visit

The best weather is from December to April, offering a pleasant climate for work and leisure. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable experience in Mexico City!

2. Vancouver

Vancouver, a gem on Canada’s west coast, is a haven for digital nomads. With its stunning natural beauty and vibrant city life, it offers the perfect balance between work and play. As of June 2023, Canada has declared that digital nomads working for a foreign company can work in the country for up to six months, making it easier than ever to set up shop in this bustling metropolis.

3. Austin

Why Austin?

Austin is a vibrant city, with a thriving arts scene and a large LGBTQ+ community that hosts one of the largest Pride festivals in the US annually. The city is also known for its diverse festivals, including comedy, fringe theater, art for kids, environmentalism, crafts, yoga, steampunk, independent film, goth music, food, comic books, and even one celebrating the city’s multi-ethnic makeup. Diverse, eh?

Digital Nomad Hotspots

Explore Austin’s nomad hotspots, enjoy great food, vibrant nightlife, and fast Wi-Fi. Ideal for remote work and play in Texas’s cultural hub.

Cost of Living

Austin offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared to other major US cities, making it an attractive destination for digital nomads.

Networking Opportunities

The city is home to numerous coworking spaces and networking events, providing ample opportunities to connect with other professionals.

Austin’s unique blend of culture, affordability, and connectivity makes it a top choice for digital nomads in 2023.

4. Toronto

The Digital Nomad’s Guide to Living in Canada

Toronto is a city that perfectly balances big-city chaos with small-town charm, making it an ideal spot for digital nomads. It’s like New York with a heart. The city offers a thriving arts scene and a large LGBTQ+ community, hosting one of the largest Pride festivals in North America annually. You’ll also find festivals celebrating comedy, fringe theater, environmentalism, and more.

Why Toronto?

• Democratic and free economy
• No power outages
• Major economic hub
• High life expectancy
• Speaks English
• Low gender pay gap

Networking and Coworking

Toronto is a major economic city with numerous coworking spaces and networking opportunities. Whether you’re into tech, arts, or finance, you’ll find a community here. The city is also known for its high-quality products and services, making it easy to do business.

Living in Toronto

Toronto is a diverse city with a high quality of life. The city is home to people from all over the world, making it a melting pot of cultures and cuisines. From the bustling downtown to the serene waterfront, there’s something for everyone.

Discover the ultimate guide for digital nomads considering Canada, covering visa options, top cities, coworking spaces, and networking tips.

5. Playa del Carmen

Why Playa del Carmen?

Playa del Carmen is a digital nomad’s paradise, offering a rich cultural life with frequent community events, dining options for both budget and luxury travelers, and proximity to ancient archeological sites, cenotes (underground rivers), and stunning beaches. This city is also one of the safest in Mexico, making it an ideal spot for remote work and leisure.

Co-working Spaces

Discover Playa del Carmen as a digital nomad with our honest guide. The city boasts numerous co-working spaces that cater to different needs, from quiet, focused environments to more social, collaborative settings. Whether you prefer a beachfront view or a cozy indoor space, you’ll find a spot that suits your work style.

Cost of Living

Living in Playa del Carmen can be quite affordable, especially compared to other popular digital nomad destinations. You can find a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious apartments. Food and transportation are also reasonably priced, allowing you to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without breaking the bank.

Tips for a Smooth Experience

To make the most of your stay in Playa del Carmen, consider the following tips:

• Learn some basic Spanish phrases to help you navigate daily interactions.
• Take advantage of the local cuisine, which offers a variety of delicious and affordable options.
• Stay aware of your surroundings and follow common safety practices to ensure a worry-free experience.

Playa del Carmen offers a unique blend of work and play, making it a top choice for digital nomads in 2023. With its vibrant community, affordable living, and beautiful surroundings, it’s no wonder this city is a favorite among remote workers.

Conclusion

In summary, Playa del Carmen is an excellent destination for digital nomads looking for a balance of work and leisure. Its rich cultural life, affordable living, and numerous co-working spaces make it a standout choice for 2023. So pack your bags and get ready to experience the best of Playa del Carmen!

6. Montreal

Vibrant Culture

Montreal is an amazing, fun city with lots of stuff to do. From its world-renowned festivals to its eclectic food scene, there’s always something happening. Digital nomads don’t need a special visa to visit Canada for up to 6 months, making it an accessible destination for remote work.

Affordable Living

Compared to other major North American cities, Montreal offers a more affordable cost of living. You can find reasonably priced accommodations and enjoy a high quality of life without breaking the bank.

Connectivity

When searching for apartment stays, make sure you find an apartment with a strong and fast Internet connection. This is one of the most important tools you will need when working abroad. Montreal has plenty of coworking spaces and cafes with reliable Wi-Fi.

Outdoor Activities

Montreal is not just about urban life; it also offers plenty of outdoor activities. Whether it’s biking along the Lachine Canal or hiking up Mont Royal, there’s something for every nature lover.

Montreal manages to tread that fine line between big-city chaos and small-town life that makes it a very nice place to settle.

7. Medellin

Medellín is the ultimate spot in Colombia for digital nomads, constantly ranking among the best locations in South America and the world. Incredible views and a vibrant local culture await you in this city. You’ll have a smooth online experience as a digital nomad with high-speed Wi-Fi connections readily available whether you’re staying at hotels, cafes, or coworking spaces.

Most nationalities can get 90-day tourist visas to Colombia, making it easy to pop by for a few months of digital nomadic bliss!

Why Medellin?

Medellín offers a unique blend of modern amenities and traditional Colombian culture. The city is known for its friendly locals, delicious food, and affordable cost of living. Plus, the weather is perfect year-round, earning it the nickname "City of Eternal Spring."

Getting Around

Public transportation in Medellín is efficient and affordable. The Metro system is clean and reliable, and there are plenty of buses and taxis to get you where you need to go. For those who prefer a more active lifestyle, the city is also very walkable.

Where to Stay

From budget hostels to luxury apartments, Medellín has a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget. Popular neighborhoods for digital nomads include El Poblado, Laureles, and Envigado. Each area offers its own unique vibe and amenities, so you can find the perfect spot to call home.

Things to Do

When you’re not working, there’s no shortage of activities to keep you entertained in Medellín. Explore the city’s vibrant art scene, take a salsa dancing class, or hike up to the famous El Peñol rock for breathtaking views. And don’t forget to try the local cuisine – the arepas and empanadas are a must!

8. San Francisco

San Francisco is a vibrant city, with a thriving arts scene and a large LGBTQ+ community that hosts one of the largest Pride festivals in the US annually. There are also festivals of comedy, fringe theater, art for kids, environmentalism, crafts, yoga, steampunk, independent film, goth music, food, comic books, paganism and one simply celebrating the city’s multi-ethnic makeup. Diverse, eh? San Francisco is an ex-colony with a rich cultural heritage and a diverse population. It offers a mix of cultural enclaves like Chinatown, Japantown, Koreatown, Little Saigon, Little India, Little Russia, Little Arabia, Little Istanbul, Little Mexico, Little Manila, and even Little Paris. The city boasts a variety of neighborhoods catering to different tastes and preferences, from hipster and tourist areas to university and business districts. San Francisco is a melting pot of cultures and experiences, making it an exciting destination for digital nomads.

9. New York City

The City That Never Sleeps

New York City is a digital nomad’s dream. With its 24/7 lifestyle, you’ll never run out of things to do or places to explore. From iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty to the bustling streets of Times Square, NYC offers a unique blend of culture, history, and modernity.

Top 8 Free Places to Work Remotely

Looking for free spots to work remotely in NYC? From parks to museums, hotels to libraries, discover the best free places for remote work in New York City! Some popular options include:

• Bryant Park
• New York Public Library
• The High Line
• Brooklyn Bridge Park

Networking Opportunities

NYC is a hub for professionals from all industries. Whether you’re in tech, finance, or the arts, you’ll find ample opportunities to network and collaborate. Attend meetups, join co-working spaces, or simply strike up a conversation at a coffee shop.

Cultural Diversity

One of the most diverse cities in the world, New York offers a rich tapestry of cultures. Explore neighborhoods like Chinatown, Little Italy, and Harlem to experience a variety of cuisines, traditions, and festivals.

In New York City, every day is a new adventure. The city’s energy is contagious, making it an inspiring place to live and work.

Endless Entertainment

From Broadway shows to street performances, NYC is brimming with entertainment options. Catch a show, visit a museum, or enjoy live music at one of the many venues scattered throughout the city.

10. Tulum

Why Tulum?

Tulum is one of the most popular travel destinations in the world. This vibrant town on the Riviera Maya has emerged as a top spot for influencers and digital nomads. Its stunning beaches and rich cultural life make it a must-visit.

Things to Do

• Visit ancient archaeological sites
• Explore cenotes (underground rivers)
• Enjoy the beautiful beaches
• Participate in frequent community events

Cost of Living

Tulum offers dining and amenities for both budget and luxury travelers. Whether you’re looking to save or splurge, you’ll find options that suit your needs.

Safety

This is also one of the safest cities in Mexico, making it an ideal destination for solo travelers and families alike.

Tulum is not just a place to visit; it’s a place to experience life to the fullest while working on your digital projects.

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Tulum, a paradise where ancient ruins meet pristine beaches. Whether you’re planning a day trip or an extended stay, our platform helps you organize every detail seamlessly. Don’t miss out on the adventure of a lifetime!

Conclusion

In conclusion, North America offers a plethora of incredible experiences for digital nomads in 2023. From the bustling tech hubs of the United States to the serene landscapes of Canada, there’s something for every type of remote worker. Whether you’re looking to network with like-minded professionals or seeking solitude to focus on your projects, North America has it all. So, pack your bags, charge your devices, and get ready to explore the best that this diverse continent has to offer. Remember, the world is your office, and North America is calling your name. Happy travels, fellow nomads!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best destinations for digital nomads in North America for 2023?

Some of the best destinations for digital nomads in North America for 2023 include Mexico City, Vancouver, Austin, Toronto, Playa del Carmen, Montreal, Medellin, San Francisco, New York City, and Tulum.

Why should I consider becoming a digital nomad?

Becoming a digital nomad allows you to explore new places, experience different cultures, and enjoy a flexible lifestyle while working remotely. It offers the freedom to choose your own work environment and can lead to a better work-life balance.

What should I look for in a digital nomad destination?

Key factors to consider include reliable internet connectivity, cost of living, quality of life, safety, availability of coworking spaces, and a supportive community of other digital nomads.

Do I need a special visa to work as a digital nomad?

Some countries offer digital nomad visas that allow you to stay and work remotely for an extended period. It’s important to check the specific visa requirements of the country you plan to stay in.

How do I manage my finances as a digital nomad?

Managing finances as a digital nomad involves budgeting for travel and living expenses, keeping track of income and expenses, using international banking services, and considering tax implications in different countries.

What are the challenges of being a digital nomad?

Challenges include dealing with time zone differences, maintaining a stable internet connection, managing work-life balance, and feeling isolated or homesick. It’s important to plan and prepare for these challenges to make the most of the digital nomad lifestyle.