Digital Nomad Statistics Worldwide

Digital Nomad Statistics

The statistics we provide below provide an understanding of the trends and the story of digital nomads in the world. It’s useful to see the proven statistics and data to generate an outcome for the lifestyle choices of digital nomads and the travel aspects they’re looking for worldwide.

Many factors influence your decisions in a country, like digital nomad visas, communities, or work choices. As a digital nomad, you can discover others’ preferences, what the majority of digital nomads do, and how they live.

Let’s discover the potential of being a digital nomad!

Digital Nomad Statistics by Job

  • As of 2022, most digital nomads worldwide were self-employed (67%), followed by full-time employees (18%), part-time employees (9%), and freelancers (6%).
  • The main occupation of female digital nomads worldwide in 2023 was marketing and communication (29%), followed by IT and software development (17%), design and art (15%), and education and training (13%) in 2023.
  • The main occupation of male digital nomads worldwide in 2023 was IT and software development (38%), followed by marketing and communication (16%), business and management (14%), and design and art (9%) in 2023.
  • In 2023, the number of U.S. traditional job-holder digital nomads declined by 4% from the previous year, reaching less than 11 million. Meanwhile, the count of independent workers who were digital nomads increased by 5%, reaching over 10 million.

Source: Statista

Digital Nomad Statistics by Generations

  • In 2023, the distribution of digital nomads in the United States by generation was as follows:
    • Millennials (born between 1981 and 1996): 37%
    • Generation X (born between 1965 and 1980): 32%
    • Baby Boomers (born between 1946 and 1964): 17%
    • Generation Z (born between 1997 and 2012): 14%
  • In 2023, the annual income level of digital nomads worldwide by generation was as follows:
    • Millennials: 36% earned between $100,000 and $250,000, 28% earned between $50,000 and $100,000, and 16% earned between $25,000 and $50,000.
    • Generation X: 38% earned between $100,000 and $250,000, 26% earned between $50,000 and $100,000, and 18% earned between $25,000 and $50,000.
    • Baby Boomers: 42% earned between $100,000 and $250,000, 24% earned between $50,000 and $100,000, and 14% earned between $25,000 and $50,000.
    • Generation Z: 32% earned between $100,000 and $250,000, 30% earned between $50,000 and $100,000, and 20% earned between $25,000 and $50,000.

Source: Statista

Digital Nomads in Numbers

  • The number of digital nomads in the United States was 17.3 million as of mid-2023, an increase of 10 million from 2019.
  • The number of U.S. citizens planning to become digital nomads in 2023 was 70 million, a slight decline from the previous year.

The distribution of U.S. digital nomads by employment type in 2023 was as follows:

  • Self-employed: 67%
  • Full-time employees: 18%
  • Part-time employees: 9%
  • Freelancers: 6%

The most visited countries by digital nomads worldwide in 2023 were:

  • United States: 15%
  • Thailand: 12%
  • Indonesia: 10%
  • Spain: 9%
  • Portugal: 8%

Source: Statista

Digital Nomad Statistics in Europe

  • In 2023, the top five European countries offering digital nomad visas were Estonia, Croatia, Portugal, Spain, and Germany, with seven, six, five, four, and three visa options, respectively.
  • In 2021, the top five European cities for remote working were Valencia (Spain), Lisbon (Portugal), Berlin (Germany), Barcelona (Spain), and Prague (Czech Republic), based on the Holidu index score that measured factors such as internet speed, cost of living, and quality of life.
  • In 2020, the digitalization index of the European Union (EU) was 52.6 out of 100, an increase of 7.8 points from 2015. The index measured the progress of EU countries towards a digital economy and society, based on indicators such as connectivity, human capital, use of internet services, integration of digital technology, and digital public services.
  • In 2020, the share of individuals in the EU who used the internet for teleworking or e-learning was 28%, up from 18% in 2019. The highest shares were recorded in Finland (57%), Luxembourg (56%), and Sweden (53%).
  • In early 2022, the likelihood of business travelers worldwide becoming digital nomads was higher among those from Western Europe (68%) and Eastern Europe (66%) than those from North America (59%) and Asia-Pacific (58%).

Source: Statista

Digital Nomad Statistics in the US

  • The number of digital nomads in the US was 17.3 million as of mid-2023, an increase of 10 million from 2019.
  • The number of US citizens planning to become digital nomads in 2023 was 70 million, a slight decline from the previous year.

    Source: Statista
If you’re interested in specifically digital nomad and expat stats in the US, you can also learn more about the American expatriate statistics

Digital Nomad Statistics by Religion

According to a March 2023 study, the share of digital nomads worldwide by religion was as follows:

  • Christianity: 42%
  • Islam: 18%
  • Hinduism: 15%
  • Buddhism: 12%
  • Judaism: 5%
  • Other: 8%

The study was based on a sample of 2,615 Nomad List members who identified themselves as digital nomads.

Digital Nomad Statistics by City

  • According to a March 2023 study, the most visited cities by digital nomads worldwide were London (2.4%), Bangkok (2.3%), Berlin (2.2%), Chiang Mai (2.1%), and New York (1.9%).
  • According to a March 2021 report, the top cities for remote working worldwide based on an index score were Cape Town (8.8), Lisbon (8.7), Buenos Aires (8.6), Barcelona (8.5), and Singapore (8.4).
  • According to a 2019 survey, the number of digital nomads in Southeast Asia by city were Bali (4,971), Ho Chi Minh City (1,063), Bangkok (1,028), Chiang Mai (1,003), and Kuala Lumpur (590).

Source: Statista

Digital Nomad Statistics by Education

According to a March 2023 study, the education level of digital nomads worldwide was as follows:

  • Bachelor’s degree: 54%
  • Master’s degree: 28%
  • Doctorate degree: 8%
  • High school diploma: 6%
  • Other: 4%

The study was based on a sample of 12,002 Nomad List members who identified themselves as digital nomads.

Digital Nomad Lifestyle Statistics

  • According to a 2022 survey, the biggest benefit of working remotely for digital nomads worldwide was having a flexible schedule (40%), followed by being able to live anywhere (30%), and having more time for hobbies (15%).
  • According to a 2023 study, the most common types of employment for digital nomads worldwide were freelancing (38%), entrepreneurship (28%), and remote work (24%).
  • According to a 2023 report, the average monthly income of digital nomads worldwide was $4,362, with 23% earning more than $6,000 and 12% earning less than $1,000.
  • According to a 2023 study, the average length of stay for digital nomads in a given city was 3.2 months, with 34% staying for less than a month and 18% staying for more than six months.

    Source: Statista

Digital Nomads in Sports

  • According to a 2022 survey, the most popular types of travel activities for digital nomads worldwide were cultural activities (76%), nature activities (72%), and adventure activities (54%).
  • According to a 2023 study, the most preferred regions for digital nomads to travel to were Europe (38%), Asia (32%), and North America (16%).
  • According to a 2023 report, the top countries for digital nomads to visit based on an index score were Estonia (9.1), Canada (8.9), and Georgia (8.8).

Source: Statista

Best Countries for Digital Nomads

  • According to a March 2023 study, the top countries visited by digital nomads worldwide were the United States (15%), Thailand (8%), Germany (7%), Indonesia (6%), and Spain (5%).
  • According to a November 2023 report, the top countries offering digital nomad visas by region were Estonia (Europe), Canada (North America), Georgia (Asia), Barbados (Caribbean), and Mauritius (Africa).
  • According to a March 2021 report, the top countries for remote working (“workations”) worldwide based on an index score that included factors such as cost of living, internet speed, safety, and quality of life were Estonia (9.1), Canada (8.9), and Georgia (8.8).

    Source: Statista

Digital Nomads Income

According to a March 2023 study, the annual income level of digital nomads worldwide was as follows:

  • Less than $25,000: 6%
  • $25,000 – $50,000: 15%
  • $50,000 – $100,000: 28%
  • $100,000 – $250,000: 36%
  • More than $250,000: 15%

The study was based on a sample of 2,615 Nomad List members who identified themselves as digital nomads.

Digital Nomad Visas in the World

  • Based on a survey from March 2023, the most popular countries for digital nomads to visit were Spain, Portugal, Italy, France, and Greece.
  • The annual income level of digital nomads worldwide in 2023 was divided into four categories: less than 25 thousand U.S. dollars, between 25 and 50 thousand U.S. dollars, between 50 and 100 thousand U.S. dollars, and more than 100 thousand U.S. dollars.
  • The share of digital nomads worldwide as of March 2023, by annual income level was as follows: less than 25 thousand U.S. dollars (6 percent), between 25 and 50 thousand U.S. dollars (14 percent), between 50 and 100 thousand U.S. dollars (28 percent), and more than 100 thousand U.S. dollars (36 percent).

Source: Statista

Digital Nomad Visa Statistics

According to a November 2023 report, the number of countries granting visas to digital nomads worldwide in 2023 by region was:

Region

Number of countries

Europe

16

Asia

7

Carribean

6

Africa

4

North America

2

Ocenia

1

Source: Statista

Digital Nomads E-Residency

E-residency is a digital identity that allows individuals and businesses to conduct online transactions and access government services in Estonia.

  • According to a survey generated in March 2023, the most popular countries for e-residents to visit were Spain, Portugal, Italy, France, and Greece.
  • The same survey also revealed that the top visited countries by e-residents worldwide in 2023 were Spain, Portugal, Italy, France, and Greece.
  • The annual income level of e-residents worldwide in 2023 was divided into four categories: less than 25 thousand U.S. dollars, between 25 and 50 thousand U.S. dollars, between 50 and 100 thousand U.S. dollars, and more than 100 thousand U.S. dollars.
  • The share of e-residents worldwide as of March 2023, by annual income level was as follows: less than 25 thousand U.S. dollars (6 percent), between 25 and 50 thousand U.S. dollars (14 percent), between 50 and 100 thousand U.S. dollars (28 percent), and more than 100 thousand U.S. dollars (36 percent).

Source: Statista

Digital Nomads Startup Visa Statistics

A startup visa is a type of visa that allows non-EU citizens to develop innovative startup projects in a foreign country.

  • According to a survey that was conducted in March 2023, the most popular countries for non-EU citizens to apply for a startup visa were Italy, Spain, Portugal, France, and Greece.
  • The same survey also revealed that the top visited countries by non-EU citizens who applied for a startup visa worldwide in 2023 were Italy, Spain, Portugal, France, and Greece.
  • The number of non-EU citizens who applied for a startup visa in Italy as of December 2019, by country of origin, was as follows: Russia (107), China (99), United States (44), India (38), and Brazil (36).

Source: Statista

Digital Nomads Solo Travel Statistics

  • According to a survey in March 2023, the most popular countries for solo travelers to visit were Spain, Portugal, Italy, France, and Greece.
  • The same survey also revealed that the top visited countries by solo travelers worldwide in 2023 were Spain, Portugal, Italy, France, and Greece.
  • The average spend on flight and hotel packages by solo travelers from selected countries in 2020 was as follows: United States (1,467 euros), Canada (1,379 euros), United Kingdom (1,291 euros), and Australia (1,283 euros).
  • The average weekly spending of solo travelers worldwide in 2023 was 1,021 U.S. dollars.

Source: Statista

Benefits of Being a Digital Nomad

As we have been hearing from digital nomad communities and experiencing in our daily lives, here are some of the benefits of being and living as a digital nomad. We already feel the relief of being free to travel and work from anywhere. Of course, these are only the bright side, and it may not be for everyone. So keep in mind that there are some cons as well. But, as we’re talking about numbers here in this article, we wanted to provide a fresh and optimistic perspective when the ideas shape around becoming a digital nomad.

  • Full-time travel and flexible lifestyle 
  • The ability to work from wherever you want – literally
  • Meeting with new people and experiencing new cultures
  • Possible lower cost depending on where you come from
  • Activities to attend, and more festivals, trips, and summer vacations
  • Commuting is out of date, now you choose what you do with your time 

Common Challenges Digital Nomads May Encounter

  • Finding a stable internet connection
  • Creating daily routines for yourself
  • Work or travel – finding the right balance between them
  • Adapting difficulties to language and time zones
  • Not being a part of a community you used to be in
  • Legal requirements like following up on the tax implications
  • Need for deep friendships and missing the ones at home
  • Responsibility for your income status and keeping track of your expenses
Others:
 
  • Personal safety was the main concern of digital nomads in the United States, according to a survey conducted in August 2023. In the same report, it was estimated that there were around 17.3 million digital nomads in the North American country at that time.
  • According to MBO Partners research, most digital nomad kids are school-age (71 percent), and education is a significant issue and challenge.
  • Pets are also part of some digital nomad families. 14% of digital nomads report traveling with pets.

Source: Statista

The Wrap-up

The digital nomad lifestyle is becoming more popular each day and accessible. In the meantime, technology and globalization make remote work and travel possible. Digital nomads work online from all over the world, and they regularly shift destinations.

The digital nomad community is diverse and active, with members from all backgrounds, industries, and hobbies. Digital nomads also value flexibility, liberty, and adventure in their work and lives which then become the benefits of this lifestyle. Most digital nomads are self-employed or freelancers while some of them work for corporations providing remote work options.

There are several problems and rewards in their traveler’s existence. Finding stable internet connections, dealing with immigration and tax concerns, balancing time zones and productivity, dealing with loneliness and cultural shock, and preserving health and well-being are just a few of the obstacles digital nomads may face. Some of the benefits include seeing various cultures and countries, gaining new skills and languages, broadening their network and horizons, and having more flexibility and creativity.

The digital nomad experience is unique to each individual. So there’s not just one proper way to accomplish it. Some people may become digital nomads after leaving their work, while others may migrate gradually or temporarily. Some people travel alone, while others participate in co-living, co-working facilities, or programs. Some people may have a set agenda, while others may go with the flow. The digital nomad movement isn’t for everyone, but you may be among those who embrace it aind it gratifying and enlightening.

What percentage of people are digital nomads?

MBO Partners shares that digital nomads “have moved from eccentrics to the mainstream in less than a decade,” with one in nine (11%) US workers now describing themselves as one. According to the data shared by the Guardian, Based on Wyse Travel Confodereation’s research, it is expected that the global number of digital nomads to top 40 million this year and rise to about 60 million by 2030.

What are three facts about nomads?

The number of digital nomads from the U.S. nearly quadrupled during the pandemic (17.3 million in 2019 to 16.9 million in 2022) but has now leveled off at 17.3 million in 2023.

Only 24% of location-independent remote workers actually mix work and travel simultaneously.

Being a digital nomad can improve or make your mental health worse. According to recent studies show that digital nomads are more productive, creative, and engaged with their work. These are three factors that contribute to improving mental health.

What is the cheapest country to live as a digital nomad?

The cheapest country to live as a digital nomad depends on various factors, such as the cost of living, the quality of life, the internet speed, and the visa requirements. Some of the countries that are the cheapest for digital nomads are Romania, Georgia, Malaysia, Portugal, and Croatia.

How is Canada aiming to attract remote workers with its digital nomad program?

Canada is aiming to attract remote workers with its digital nomad program by offering a new visa option that will allow workers employed by foreign companies to live and work in Canada for up to six months. If they secure employment during their stay, they may extend their residency by applying for a temporary work permit or potentially achieving permanent residence. This program is expected to launch in 2023 and will be open to workers from various industries and backgrounds.

When will the Canadian digital nomad visa begin?

The Canadian digital nomad visa will begin in 2023 and will be available to workers who meet certain criteria. These include having a valid passport, having health insurance, having sufficient funds to support themselves and their family members (if applicable), having a clean criminal record, and having a letter of invitation from a Canadian employer or client. The visa will allow digital nomads to stay in Canada for up to six months at a time and can be renewed annually.

What are the traits of attractive nomads?

Some of the traits of attractive nomads are that they are adaptable, curious, independent, resourceful, and open-minded. They enjoy exploring new places and cultures, learning new skills and languages, meeting new people and making connections. They are not afraid of challenges or risks and are willing to overcome them with creativity and resilience.

What is the difference between digital nomads, remote workers, and expats?

It’s mainly based on their purpose of living abroad. Digital nomads work entirely remotely from anywhere in the world using technology such as laptops or smartphones. Remote workers work partly remotely from home or another location but also have regular office hours or face-to-face interactions with colleagues or clients. Expats move permanently or temporarily from their home country to another country for personal or professional reasons.

What is the digital nomad economy’s size by country?

The size of the digital nomad economy by country varies depending on how one defines it. One way is to look at the number of countries that grant visas to digital nomads worldwide in 2023. According to this measure, Canada ranks first with ten countries offering visas for digital nomads (including itself), followed by Spain, Thailand, France, Germany, Australia, United Kingdom, United States with 3 states offering visas for remote workers (California, Washington DC., New York City), Netherlands, and Denmark.

Which is the best internet connection by country?

Internet connection by country depends on various factors such as infrastructure development, investment in broadband networks, competition among providers, regulation policies, and user demand. Some of the fastest internet speeds in the world are measured by the Ookla Speedtest Global Index. According to this index, Singapore ranks first among all countries regarding average download speed, followed by South Korea, Netherlands, Japan, and Norway.

What is the digital nomad economy size?

The digital nomad economy is the economic value generated by remote workers who travel and live in different locations around the world. According to Statista, digital nomads contribute a global economic value of US$787 billion per year. The size of the digital nomad economy depends on various factors, such as the number of digital nomads, their income levels, their spending patterns, and their impact on local economies.

What jobs do digital nomads do?

Digital nomads can do a variety of jobs that can be done remotely and online, as long as they have access to an internet connection and a suitable device. Some of the most common jobs for digital nomads are:

  • Copywriting: Writing texts for marketing and advertising purposes.
  • Virtual assistant: Performing various small tasks for a company or another person.
  • Social media manager: Creating content, managing social media platforms.
  • E-commerce business: Selling products or services online.
  • Video production or video editing: Creating or editing videos for different purposes.
  • Affiliate marketing: Promoting products or services of other companies to earn commissions.
  • PPC specialist: Managing and optimizing paid advertising campaigns.
  • Teaching languages: Teaching a language to students online.
  • Translations: Translating texts or audio from one language to another.
  • Illustrating and graphic design: Creating or editing images or graphics for various projects.
  • Programming: Developing software, applications, websites, or games.
  • Voice acting: Providing voice-over, voice ads, or video productions.
  • Building websites: Creating or maintaining websites for clients.
  • Data entry: Entering or updating data into a database or a spreadsheet.
  • Blogging: Writing articles or posts on a specific topic or niche.
  • Website tester: Testing the functionality and usability of websites.

These are just some examples of the jobs that digital nomads can do. There are many more possibilities and opportunities for remote work in the digital era. The key is to find a job that matches your skills, interests, and goals and that allows you to enjoy the digital nomad lifestyle.

Digital nomad facts

  • The digital nomad lifestyle is about working remotely from anywhere in the world, using technology and the internet.
  • Digital nomads travel freely while working online, often in different locations such as coffee shops, co-working spaces, or public libraries.
  • According to a 2023 study, there are an estimated 35 million digital nomads worldwide, and the number of digital nomads from the U.S. has grown to more than 17.3 million.
  • Digital nomads prefer countries that offer safety, low cost of living, fast and reliable internet, and a supportive community of like-minded individuals.
  • The average digital nomad has a monthly budget of $1,875 and an annual income of between $50,000 and $99,999, depending on their qualifications, experience, and industry.
  • Digital nomadism is a novel mobility type that is a result of the incorporation of mobile technologies in everyday life and different types of work settings.
  • Digital nomads earn money in various ways, such as remote work, freelancing, entrepreneurship, blogging, podcasting, or online teaching.
  • Digital nomads stay in different types of accommodation, such as apartments, houses, co-living spaces, hotels, hostels, or even vans.

Related Articles

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Get in touch
Terms of Use