Digital Nomads Are Heading to Asia: Countries That Are Outpacing the Balkans with Their Affordable Costs
Digital nomadism has seen a global surge, particularly in the aftermath of the pandemic. However, recent years have witnessed a shift in the routes of these digital nomads. Rather than adhering to a single route, they are capable of intercontinental transitions based on seasonal conditions, visa conveniences, and cost of living. The number of those favoring the Balkans is dwindling day by day, while those opting for Asia are on the rise.
Thailand and Bali have emerged as the new hotspots for digital nomads.
Digital nomads are no longer favoring the Balkans.
Following the pandemic in 2020, the Balkans had become a magnet for digital nomads. However, it's been noted that costs in Balkan countries have been rapidly escalating in recent years. There's a constant increase in food prices and rental costs. It's also said that insurance expenses in North Macedonia pose a significant burden. Consequently, digital nomads have decided to change their routes.
According to the 2025 cost comparisons by platforms like Stippl and Holafly, even though the Balkans are preferred due to their proximity to Europe during the summer months, the average monthly cost of living has risen to a range of 1,500 to 2,000 dollars. On the other hand, in Thailand, it's possible to lead a life that could be considered 'luxurious' with a budget of 800 to 1,200 dollars.
Thanks to the new visa initiatives of Thailand and Bali, a "digital migration" has commenced.
Foreign sources are pointing to Thailand's new visa initiative as the primary catalyst for this migration. The Thailand Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) came into effect in July 2024. This visa grants digital nomads the opportunity to reside in Thailand for up to five years. Resources such as the Thai Embassy and Vialto Partners highlight this visa as a revolutionary alternative to the 90-day limited stay periods in the Balkans (for instance, in Albania or Montenegro).
Meanwhile, in Indonesia (specifically Bali), reports from EY (Ernst & Young) and Global Citizen Solutions confirm that Indonesia's 'E33G' remote work visa (valid for up to five years) has reestablished Bali as a primary hub. According to data from Nomad List, the largest data platform for digital nomads, as of 2025, Chiang Mai (Thailand) and Canggu (Bali) consistently rank in the top three on the 'World's Best Digital Nomad Destinations' list.
Moreover, it's said that digital nomads are now embracing the 'Slomad' (Slow Nomad) culture. According to this trend, nomads spend the months of May through October in the Balkans, and from November to April, they reside in Southeast Asia.
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