A recent survey published by tech retailer Currys formatted a list of the top 20 cities for the U.K.’s digital nomads and remote workers — considering different factors such as cost of living, internet connectivity, safety, and legal stay durations to determine the most suitable locations for those embracing the remote work lifestyle.
Topping the list is Lima, Peru, with a score of 38.66 out of 50. According to a report published by FE News, Lima appeals to digital nomads for its combination of affordability, favorable climate, and rich culture. Additionally, Peru offers a visa-free stay of up to 183 days for Brits. Despite higher rent compared to other South American cities, Lima’s cost of living is significantly lower than many U.K. and Canadian cities.
Recife, Brazil, ranked second with a score of 37.22 out of 50. The city is celebrated for its affordability, safety, and scenic beauty. Meanwhile, Belfast, Northern Ireland, emerges as the top city in the U.K. for digital nomads and remote workers — taking third with a score of 35.77 out of 50. Its attractive qualities include reasonable rent, cheap utilities, and fast broadband, despite a lower safety index score.
The top 20 cities were:
- Lima, Peru – 38.66 out of 50
- Recife, Brazil – 37.22 out of 50
- Belfast, Ireland – 35.77 out of 50
- Guadalajara, Mexico – 35.73 out of 50
- Cali, Colombia – 35.63 out of 50
- Sudbury, Canada – 35.26 out of 50
- Buenos Aires, Argentina – 35.03 out of 50
- Guayaquil, Ecuador – 34.85 out of 50
- Santiago, Chile – 34.50 out of 50
- Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago – 34.39
- Marseille, France – 34.29 out of 50
- Kuala Lumpur, Malayasia – 34.19
- Caracas, Venezuela – 33.94 out of 50
- Pattaya, Thailand – 33.85 out of 50
- Port Elizabeth, South Africa – 32.77 out of 50
- Constanta, Romania – 32.76 out of 50
- Lagos, Nigeria – 32.56 out of 50
- Montevideo, Uruguay – 32.51 out of 50
- Christchurch, New Zealand – 32.38 of out 50
- San Jose, Costa Rica – 32.33 out of 50
The survey’s findings also reflect broader changes among U.K. workers since the end of the pandemic. Many U.K. professionals are seeking flexible working arrangements and the freedom to work from anywhere. This rise of digital nomadism and remote work has led more individuals to prioritize work-life balance and the ability to travel while maintaining their professional responsibilities.
As the remote work movement continues to evolve and grow, successful cities will likely be ones that are positioned to become hubs for the increase in digital nomads by offering environments that support both productivity and personal fulfillment.
