Digital nomads are no longer a small niche of ultra-tech enthusiasts glued to their laptops, enjoying fancy dinners at expensive international restaurants and nightclubs.
Today, location-independent workers come from all walks of life, representing multiple nationalities and budgets. Many simply want to escape the busy city life to spend a long season in a nice cozy cottage by the sea.
If you’re looking to embrace a frugal lifestyle, this article is a gem for you to discover beautiful Caribbean paradises for under $1000. Enjoy!
Las Terrenas, Dominican Republic
Located just a 4 to 5-hour drive from Punta Cana, Las Terrenas is a vibrant beach town where digital nomads can easily live for under $500. In fact, many European workers have already chosen this destination as their new base of operations.
As of now, you can find one-bedroom rentals from $200 to $400, leaving you enough money for food and utilities.
Cartagena, Colombia
Believe it or not, it’s still possible to live in Cartagena for under $500, granted that you’re willing to make a few adjustments and plan carefully.
The most important tip is to look for budget-friendly neighborhoods like Marbella, Getsemaní or Manga.
While it’s real difficult to find a two-bedroom for under $500, sharing with other remote workers can make your dream of living in this Caribbean gem a reality.
Trinidad, Cuba
Nestled between the Caribbean Sea and the Escambray Mountains, this UNESCO World Heritage Site welcomes digital nomads with open arms.
With $500 bucks per month, you can cover rent for a one-bedroom apartment on the outskirts of the city, as well as groceries and utilities.
Bluefields, Nicaragua
Nicaragua may not be at the top of every digital nomad’s list, but it’s time to reconsider that. Bluefields not only offers a unique natural setting but also the chance to rent a nice home here for around $285.
You can spend the rest on local delicatessens and enjoying some drinks after work.
Hopkins, Belize
This coastal village is considered one of the safest destinations in the country, making it even more appealing for remote workers.
Here, you can budget around $300 to rent a nice one-bedroom apartment for yourself and spend the rest on fresh food and visits to the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, where, if you are lucky, you might spot one of its 200 jaguars along its beautiful hiking trails.
Santa Marta, Colombia
Can you picture a place in the Caribbean that offers beaches, snow-capped mountains, national parks and lush jungles all in one?
With rentals ranging from $400 to $1,000 for a 3-bedroom apartment, it’s possible for digital nomads to live here for under $500, if they decide to do some co-living and enjoy what nature has to offer.
Little Corn Island, Nicaragua
This small island offers an authentic remote vibe, perfect for remote workers. Here, you’ll find no cars or motorcycles that can disturb wildlife.
In this budget-friendly paradise, you can rent a home for as little as $200 to $300 and enjoy a nice meal for under $5.
Keep in mind that the island’s electric generator only runs from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m., so you’ll need to plan your work schedule accordingly.
Bocas del Toro, Panamá
Filled with stunning beaches, Bocas del Toro is the perfect Caribbean paradise for those looking to embrace a nomadic lifestyle while staying close to clients who prefer to meet up on Eastern Time (ET).
Here you can rent a well-located property for around $600 and share it with your partner or a friend to keep your expenses under $500 per month.
Negril, Jamaica
Negril doesn’t need an introduction among digital nomads, as everyone loves its Seven Mile Beach, unique reggae music and Caribbean vibe.
If thinking of moving to this destination, the platform Numbeo has good news for you. Here you can rent a one-bedroom apartment for as low as $227, and even a three-bedroom apartment for just $390. Whether you choose to share or live by yourself, you’ll be able to save a ton of money on this place.
Isla Mujeres, Mexico
With an extraordinary underwater museum and stunning beaches like Playa Norte set against a breathtaking backdrop, it’s possible to live and work from Isla Mujeres, provided that you’re willing to make a few sacrifices like sharing accommodation with a partner or a friend and sticking to free tourist attractions.
In this destination, you can find one-bedroom apartments for as little as $470 and two-bedroom units for around $750.