Top 5 South American Cities For Digital Nomads from Online Communities
With so many digital nomad visas coming up (Uruguay just announced its new visa) and affordability on the table, it can be tricky to choose your next city to live in South America as a digital nomad.
But worry not! We analysed forums like reddit and tens of facebook group to see where digital nomads and remote workers hang out in South
Best Cities in South America for digital Nomads
Remote workers are increasingly drawn to the allure of South America for a variety of reasons. First and foremost, the region offers a lower cost of living compared to many Western countries. This financial advantage allows remote workers to make their budgets stretch further, affording them a higher quality of life and the ability to save for or invest in memorable experiences.
Another great aspect is the favorable time zones found in South American countries like Brazil, Argentina, and Chile. These time zones align well with North American and European business hours, facilitating seamless collaboration and communication with remote teams across different regions. By working during their local mornings or afternoons, remote workers can actively participate in meetings and discussions without significant time differences posing a challenge.
South America boasts a rich tapestry of natural beauty. From the captivating Amazon rainforest to the majestic peaks of the Andes Mountains and breathtaking beaches, remote workers are enticed by the opportunity to embrace a change of scenery. The region’s mild climate and abundant outdoor activities further contribute to a more fulfilling work-life balance, enabling them to rejuvenate and explore during their free time.
South America’s cultural wealth is another compelling factor. Immersion in vibrant local traditions, diverse cuisines, and unique customs presents remote workers with invaluable personal growth and learning opportunities. By embracing different cultures, they broaden their horizons and develop a deeper appreciation for the world around them.
South America has also become a hub for digital nomad communities. Cities like Medellín in Colombia and Buenos Aires in Argentina have established supportive ecosystems with co-working spaces, networking events, and like-minded individuals. The sense of belonging and connection found within these communities enhances the remote working experience, fostering an environment conducive to productivity and personal growth.
Moreover, some South American countries offer specific visa programs tailored to remote workers, acknowledging the rising trend of location-independent professionals. These streamlined visa processes, extended stays, and potential tax benefits provide a secure and hassle-free environment for remote workers to live and work in South America. Now let’s have a look at the most popular cities in this region according to Reddit and Facebook.
1. Buenos Aires, Argentina
Buenos Aires offers so many reasons why it is an ideal destination for digital nomads. One of its key advantages is its low cost of living, particularly when compared to other major cities around the world. With a budget of about $1,200 USD per month, you can comfortably live yourself in Buenos Aires. Furthermore, the city boasts excellent internet connectivity, ensuring that you can work seamlessly from various locations such as cafes, coworking spaces, or even your own apartment.
Beyond practical considerations, Buenos Aires is a city booming with cultural richness and historical significance. Its museums, theaters, and art galleries present endless opportunities for exploration and learning. Engaging with the city’s past and immersing oneself in its vibrant culture adds an extra dimension to the digital nomad experience.
Buenos Aires is also known for its friendly and welcoming people. The locals are known to be warm and receptive, making it easy to feel at home in this bustling metropolis. If you come from Europe, you might feel at home due to the attitude of the people and the amazing architectural style of the buildings.
The city is safe and highly walkable (another similarity with European cities), allowing you to navigate its streets without worry. Whether you choose to explore on foot or utilize the efficient public transportation system, you will always find yourself within reach of charming cafes, delightful restaurants, and intriguing sites.
In addition to these cool features of the city, Buenos Aires offers digital nomads a variety of neighborhoods, each with its own distinct character (more on this below!). Whether you seek a lively neighborhood with a vibrant nightlife or a more tranquil area with a traditional ambiance, the city has a perfect spot to suit your preferences.
Accessibility is another advantage, as Buenos Aires provides convenient transportation options. The city’s well-developed public transportation system enables easy navigation, and its international airport offers connections to other major cities in Argentina and across South America.
For those concerned about visa requirements, Argentina provides a digital nomad visa, allowing remote workers to stay in the country for up to 12 months. This visa-friendly environment makes it hassle-free for digital nomads to establish a base in Buenos Aires and enjoy the benefits the city has to offer.
In summary, Buenos Aires is a remarkable city for digital nomads seeking a vibrant, affordable, and culturally rich location to live and work. With its low cost of living, reliable internet, diverse neighborhoods, ease of transportation, friendly atmosphere, and opportunities for exploration, Buenos Aires is an ideal destination for those looking to combine work and adventure in a dynamic urban setting.
On The Ground Advice from Digital Nomads Living in Buenos Aires, Argentina
One solid piece of advice from a lot of digital nomads is to bring your cash from your home country and go to Florida Street to exchange money on the black market. The legal exchange rate is awful. You literally get like double* going to the black market, aka “dollar blue”. There is plenty of coffee culture, although the quality is not the best, like in Colombia or the good coffee shops in the US or Europe. In exchange, you’ll learn about 🧉 mate and how it’s a cultural thing and who knows, maybe you’ll exchange coffee for mate.
For places to live in BA, it kind of depends on what you like. Palermo is famous for its bars and nightlife, and its generally younger, more tourist crowd.
If you’re looking for a posh area where you’ll feel like you’re in Europe, Belgrano is an affluent, upscale part of the city with beautiful parks. Puerto Madero is not recommended, but it is worth visiting, especially for a good run.Or who knows, maybe you’ll like the vibe and want to move there.
San Telmo is near a lot of important city areas and is a tourist hotspot, but it still has plenty of locals. There are plenty of ferias on the street nearby too. The Congreso neighborhood is in the thick of the city but is residential.
A lot of expats live in Caballito. It’s like a university town within the city, mixed with old locals. Plenty of parks, fair prices, etc. Interestingly, it isn’t packed with bars, but rather resto-bars, so nightlife is lighter.
That said, public transport, while sometimes congested and a mess, is still good. You can easily move around the city without trouble by taking buses or the metro.
As for the money, yes. Forget about paying with your credit or debit cards. Bring all the cash you can and exchange as needed. The legal exchange rate will literally mean you lose half the value of your money.
Palermo is the main neighborhood for foreigners, digital nomads, tourists, etc. Specifically, Palermo, Soho, or Hollywood, with the most trend restaurants, shopping and bars If you have no interest in nightlife, then consider Belgrano or Recoleta for a quiet and cozy period in Buenos Aires.
Why not read more in this Digital Nomad Guide for Buenos Aires?
2. Medellin, Colombia
Medellin, the bustling city nestled in the heart of Colombia, has become a top destination for digital nomads in the past.5 years seeking an enriching and affordable experience. One of its most enticing features is the low cost of living, which sets it apart from other major cities worldwide. With an average monthly cost of around $500 USD for a comfortable place to live, as well as affordable food and transportation options, Medellin allows digital nomads to stretch their budgets while still enjoying a high quality of life. Medellin’s public transport is very good; so good that it is said to have transformed the city. There are four ways to get around the city: Metro, MetroCable, MetroPlus and BRT (Bus Rapid Transit)
Beyond its affordability, Medellin’s infrastructure is good and ensures seamless connectivity. Compared to Asian cities, Medellin is equipped with reliable internet services, a steady power supply, and efficient transportation systems. These amenities create an environment conducive to work and living, eliminating concerns about disruptions that may get one in trouble if they can’t login at work or can’t run their business properly.
Moreover, Medellin’s reputation as a safe city adds to its appeal for digital nomads. Visitors and residents alike appreciate the city’s commitment to ensuring security, allowing individuals to explore its vibrant neighborhoods with confidence. Additionally, Medellin is renowned for its friendly and welcoming residents, who create a warm and inclusive atmosphere. This friendliness fosters a sense of belonging, making it easy to connect with both locals and fellow nomads, forming lasting friendships and support networks.
Medellin also offers an abundance of activities for leisure and exploration. The city’s sprawling parks and captivating museums beckon residents to immerse themselves in art, history, and natural beauty. For nature enthusiasts, the nearby mountains provide opportunities for invigorating hikes and breathtaking vistas. In the evenings, Medellin comes alive with a vibrant nightlife scene, featuring an array of bars and clubs catering to diverse tastes.
But is Medellin Safe?
Medellin has improved a lot in the last years. From being a city practically run by drug lords, to one that’s winning awards. It's been through a huge change!
Living in Medellin means remaining vigilant. The same things apply to residents as to tourists: don’t flash your wealth around, walk and talk with your phone, and travel at night unless you have a taxi/Uber.
Gangs and street crime do still exist though. The best way to stay safe in Medellin is not to put yourself in a dangerous position. Read more about safety in Medellin right here.
Medellin boasts a thriving community of digital nomads. As more individuals choose this city as their base, the community continues to grow. This network of like-minded professionals creates an invaluable resource for sharing experiences, advice, and collaboration. The digital nomad community in Medellin serves as a pillar of support and connection, ensuring that individuals can navigate the challenges of remote work while enjoying a sense of camaraderie.
In addition to all this, Medellin’s climate is pretty good. With temperatures ranging from 65 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit year-round, the city offers a spring-like ambiance that fosters productivity and comfort. Whether working from a cozy café or an open-air coworking space, the pleasant weather allows nomads to immerse themselves in their work without the distractions of extreme heat or cold. However, do watch out for smog and traffic unfortunately. This is one of the downsides of the city
If you are a digital nomad foodie, the kitchen in Medellin is pretty good and yes they have street food. The city boasts a diverse range of dining options, from authentic Colombian cuisine that tantalizes the taste buds to international culinary delights. Exploring the local food scene becomes an adventure in itself, as you savor the rich flavors and aromas that permeate the city.
Beyond the practical advantages, Medellin presents a cultural tapestry that captivates residents and visitors alike. Its vibrant streets come alive with traditional festivals and modern art exhibits, offering a delightful blend of the old and the new. Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture, and you’ll discover a city pulsating with energy and creativity.
Overall, Medellin emerges as an exceptional choice for digital nomads seeking an ideal blend of affordability, safety, friendliness, decreasing crime, and cultural richness. With its low cost of living, reliable infrastructure, welcoming atmosphere, and abundance of activities, Medellin stands out as a city that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re embarking on a new remote work journey or looking for a fresh digital nomad destination, Medellin beckons you with open arms, promising an experience that is both fulfilling and rewarding.
On The Ground Advice from Digital Nomads Living in Medellin, Colombia
Probably Medellin or some other city in Colombia will give you the best balance. Take into consideration that Colombia is a tropical country and doesn’t get seasons (same good/bad weather all days) as opposed to Argentina/Chile/most of Brazil, where you get seasons. For instance, the winter and summer in Buenos Aires are awful, so you only end up getting six months of relative good weather.
Regarding coffee culture, Medellin might be the winner, followed by Buenos Aires. . Colombia is also closer to the US and Europe. It’s just 3 hours flight to Miami and 9 hours flight to Spain so if you miss home it’s not THAT hard to go back home.
Medellin can be a bit more expensive than Buenos Aires, although you can find other cheap places in Colombia if you want to change the air a bit.
Overall, colombians are very welcoming and are used to expats, and good enough internet is widely available. Colombia has it all: if you like beaches, you go to San Marta; if you prefer colder/dry weather with lots of international options, you go to Bogota, .
3. Florianopolis, Brazil
Florianópolis, also known as Floripa, is a popular city in Brazil for digital nomads. It boasts a range of features that make it an attractive destination for remote workers. One of its main draws is the abundance of beautiful beaches and stunning scenery. Situated on an island in the southern region of Brazil, Floripa captivates visitors with its picturesque beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush rainforests. This unique natural setting allows digital nomads to unwind and immerse themselves in the outdoors while maintaining their remote work routines.
The locals of Floripa contribute to the city’s appeal as well. Brazilians are renowned for their friendliness and hospitality, and Floripa is no exception. The locals readily assist digital nomads, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Whether engaging in friendly conversations or participating in lively beach volleyball games, the locals foster a sense of community that enriches the experience of living and working in the city.
Floripa also stands out due to its affordability. Compared to other popular digital nomad destinations like Bali or Chiang Mai, the cost of living in Floripa is relatively reasonable. This financial advantage enables digital nomads to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle while adhering to a budget. Moreover, the city provides a reliable internet connection, a crucial requirement for remote workers who depend on online connectivity to fulfill their professional obligations.
Beyond its idyllic beaches, Floripa offers an array of activities and amenities that cater to the needs of digital nomads. Coworking spaces, cafes, and restaurants abound, providing ideal environments for productivity. Additionally, the city’s vibrant nightlife scene ensures that digital nomads can unwind and socialize after work hours. Floripa presents a diverse range of opportunities to explore, ensuring that digital nomads can balance work and leisure seamlessly.
Furthermore, Florianópolis has established itself as a safe city, boasting a low crime rate. This safety factor adds to the city’s allure, allowing digital nomads to live and work in a secure environment. Additionally, the compact nature of Floripa makes it easy to navigate. Whether by foot, bicycle, or public transportation, getting around the city is convenient and straightforward, further enhancing the overall experience for digital nomads.
Lastly, Florianópolis nurtures a strong and growing community of digital nomads. The city serves as a hub for remote workers, offering ample opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals and share experiences. This thriving community provides valuable support and fosters a sense of belonging, making Floripa an even more desirable location for digital nomads seeking a fulfilling work-life balance.
In conclusion, Florianópolis stands out as an exceptional city for digital nomads in search of a beautiful, affordable, and welcoming place to live and work. With its breathtaking natural surroundings, friendly locals, reasonable cost of living, reliable internet access, diverse amenities, and strong community, Floripa offers a fulfilling and enriching experience for remote workers seeking an ideal destination to call home.
On The Ground Advice from Digital Nomads Living in Florianopolis, Brazil
From the DN standpoint of view, the internet there is very stable and fast! It seems like 100 MB/s fiber connections are the standard there.
All supermarkets sell organic products, and the best supermarkets are:Angeloni, Bistek and Giassi. On top of that, you’ve got grocery markets where you can find fresh vegetables, fruits and meat.
Internet is great and stable, and the beaches are absolutely gorgeous, but they are far from the centre so you’ll need a means of transport to get to them. Having a car is extremely necessary, as everything is far away. The bus takes too long so it’s not really an option. Uber does operate in Brazil hence it would be a decent alternative
The best area to live in for digital nomads in Florianopolis, Brazil are Conceição Lagoon, Campeche, Jurerê and Cachoeira de Bom Jesus.
The bus is an option but it’s slow and tiring.It is also possible to take an Uber
The island has three main regions. North, Mid-East and South.
The north is more luxurious, with fancy hotels, European sidewalks, and a lot of shopping malls. Make sure to check out Daniela Beach if you are in the area. It’s nice, and the sunset there is awesome.
The center of the island has a big city vibe where everything is at hand and you can find almost anything you can imagine, from electronics to home appliances and so on.
In the middle, you have Barra da Lagoa. This is a nice place, a bit touristic, but definitely worth a trip. A small beach there called “Parinha da Lagoa” is something you don’t want to miss.
Make sure to trek to Piscinas Naturais, which has really beautiful stones and landscapes. Another track you can do from there is called the Boa Vista Trail, and indeed, the view is spectacular! It will take about two hours, but the views from that trail are absolutely stunning, so it’s worth the effort. And while you’re there, make sure to check out Galheta Beach.
Mole Beach, known for surfing and parties, is yet another good beach to spend some time on if that’s your thing.
One more cool beach in this area is Praia do Gravata, which can be reached by a short track in the forest. Really nice little beach; there are rocks you can climb, and again, the views are incredible!
The south is many expats’ favorite part of Florianopolis! …and this might be because it’s kind of in between a small town and a big city, plus the beach is actually really cool, so if you’re looking to meet people, it might be a good spot.
The south part of the island really has more of a small town vibe, a much more local experience, really cool people, and is more relaxed and cozy. The biggest town of the south is Campeche. The beach is really nice! very long, white soft sand, and big dunes around; definitely a cool spot to hang out, do walks, running, yoga, play music, and all the cool things. Your usuals, like ATM, Gas stations, cloth shops, etc., are easy to find in Campeche.
North of Campeche you’ll have Joaqina beach which nice, a bit more touristic, but you can see the famous white dunes.
South from Campeche beach, you’ll find Matadeiro beach. Another thing you want to check on your list around Campeche is Lagoa da Perri (a big lagoon, very beautiful, cool spot to hang out, very calm and relaxing place).
The town of Armacao is a cute town that is worth experiencing. It has a few restaurants and convenience stores, and it is surrounded by mountains and nature all around.
In this area, people do yoga, meditation, soccer, dancing, chilling, and what have you all in one spot. There are only three restaurants on the beach, and the rest is just you, the waves, and Mother Nature. Surrounded by green mountains and beautiful birds. Up in the mountains, you can find some places where you can actually stay. The nice thing about living there is that you really live in the forest, and on the beach, while still being connected to civilization. In a short 20–30 minute walk on the beach, you reach Armacao, and there you’ll have supermarkets, convenience stores, restaurants, and everything else you’ll need for everyday life. Worth giving a try for a month or two as a digital nomad.
4. Manta, Ecuador
Manta is preferred by digital nomads because it’s an important city, with all necessary infrastructure and decent to excellent accommodations, including beachfront condos and hotels, and of course stable internet. It is a great place to call home and set out to explore, with a fascinating history and amazing food.
Also, it’s relatively easy to get to Manta from the US. There are direct flights from Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Atlanta, Houston, and NYC. From California, it’s fastest to fly through Panama or Mexico City.
Most visitors to Ecuador can enter the country without a visa. Visitors may stay up to 90 days, except citizens of Peru, who are allowed a maximum stay of 180 days, and citizens of China, who are allowed to stay for 90 days per calendar year. A valid passport is a must.
The crime rate is average, but certain precautions should be taken for safety. The city experiences a high level of corruption, robberies, attacks, and bribery. The police are not reliable and often ignore incidents. Travelers should be cautious, especially in remote areas, and avoid walking alone at night. Taxis are recommended for safer transportation. Scammers and people with false stories may approach tourists, so it’s best to ignore them and be wary of anyone asking for money, including children begging. Pickpocketing is common and carried out by skilled teams. It’s advisable not to carry a wallet and instead keep a few bills in different pockets. Valuables should be left in the hotel safe, and extra vigilance is needed at bus stations. Drinks should not be left unattended in bars and restaurants, as thieves may drug and rob unsuspecting victims.
5. Pipa, Brazil
Nestled in the heart of Brazil, the captivating small town of Pipa seamlessly combines a myriad of remarkable elements that make it an irresistible destination. Pipa is a safe, secure, and tranquil location that embraces the essence of peace, providing a sanctuary for both residents and visitors to relish in a sense of ease and well-being.
The internet connection is cutting-edge, offering speeds exceeding 600 mb/s – a true haven for the digital nomad or remote employee.
Pipa’s vibrant nightlife is very good, especially after sunsets.
If you want to combine remote working with adventures, Pipa offers a playground of exhilarating activities such as surfing, crossfit, capoeira, and an array of other sports, allowing you to channel your energy, embrace the thrill of the outdoors, and forget about work.
The closest airport is Natal and it’s international. There are flights from the US and from Europe, so it’s not really hard to get there.
In essence, Pipa weaves together an enchanting tapestry of modern amenities, bohemian charm, delectable flavors, natural wonders, and lively entertainment, ensuring an unforgettable experience that will etch beautiful memories in your heart.
Last words - The Best Cities for Nomads according to the forums
As many experienced remote workers are delighted to mention in forums, these South American cities provide a dynamic and enticing location for digital nomads seeking an enriching experience. Buenos Aires, Medellin, Florianopolis, Manta, and Pipa in Brazil stand out as outstanding places for remote work, strong internet, and a relatively high quality of life.
With its European elegance and international flare, Buenos Aires offers a unique combination of culture, history, and modern comforts. The city is suitable for creative professionals and entrepreneurs since it has a flourishing startup culture, good infrastructure, and a dynamic arts and music scene. With its low cost of living and plenty of co-working spaces, Buenos Aires provides an ideal combination of work and leisure.
Medellin, known as the “City of Eternal Spring,” has transformed dramatically in recent years. It currently has a vibrant digital nomad population attracted by its good environment, low living costs, and amazing infrastructure. Medellin’s friendly residents and stunning natural surroundings make it a perfect place for anyone looking for an inspired work-life balance.
Florianopolis, recognized for its beautiful beaches and natural beauty, provides a relaxed lifestyle suited to productivity and leisure. The city has strong internet access and a selection of co-working places with views of the ocean. Florianopolis, with its developing IT industry and diversified expat community, offers several networking opportunities.
Manta, located on Ecuador’s gorgeous coast, provides an excellent environment for digital nomads looking for a slower pace of life. The city’s peaceful beaches, low cost of living, and mild temperature make it an appealing choice for remote workers. Manta also has a thriving entrepreneurial sector, with co-working spaces and networking events catering to the city’s expanding community of digital nomads. Manta offers a pleasant change of environment, whether working by the beach or exploring neighboring natural areas.
Pipa, Brazil, is a sgrowing location for digital nomads due to its beautiful beaches and surf culture. Its natural beauty, calm attitude, and low cost of living make it an appealing alternative for remote professionals who want to balance work and recreation. Despite its tiny size, Pipa has an increasing number of co-working spaces and digital nomad-friendly services. The dynamic nightlife and diversified multinational community of the town offer a one-of-a-kind and inviting environment for individuals looking for a thriving work-life balance.
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