South America seems like a distant land with its rich culture and charming, picturesque towns. Even though it seems far away, many noteworthy cities are just a short flight to a new adventure.
That might be the main draw for digital nomads who want to call South America their new work home.
Many places on the continent are highly affordable, so many remote workers can sustain a nice life here and stretch their money further.
A new study from Resume.io has pieced together the top destinations for digital nomads in South America.
By analyzing thousands of social media posts with the #digitalnomad hashtag and confirming users’ geotags, they were able to determine the top cities digital nomads call home.
These are the top 8 South American cities for digital nomads:
8 – Quito, Ecuador
The underrated capital of Ecuador cracked the top 8, and it’s no surprise as to why it’s so popular. Those who visit Quito may not want to leave.
Travelers with a laptop on hand will instantly be tempted to stay with the allure of the charming streets and sidewalks cafes in the historic main square.
This study found just under 2500 verified digital nomad posts in this under-appreciated gem.
7 – Santa Marta, Colombia
This scenic beach town is an instant draw to digital nomads as soon as they step foot outside and see the immaculate coastline.
Although rather small for a major Colombian attraction, it also serves as a gateway to many other popular cities, which is probably why Colombia is so popular for digital nomads!
Almost 2500 posts were verified from digital nomads.
6 – Santiago, Chile
The jaw-dropping skyline of Santiago is a sight to behold. It’s easy to see why travelers would be drawn in by the backdrop of gorgeous mountains set behind this sprawling city.
Not to mention Chile’s unique culture and underrated cuisine, digital nomads have many reasons to want to plant their flag here.
The study also found slightly under 2500 verified posts from digital nomads.
5 – Cartagena, Colombia
This popular, charming city full of cobblestone streets and historic buildings is appealing to all travelers, not just digital nomads.
With a tropical climate year-round, digital nomads will be living the dream life choosing Cartagena.
The study found just under 3900 verified posts from digital nomads in this Colombian gem.
4 – São Paulo, Brazil
This vibrant mega city is the most populous of Brazil, but apparently, there is still room to add some remote workers.
Even though Americans will now need a visa simply to enter Brazil, that hasn’t stopped this massive city from being in the top 5 places for digital nomads in South America.
Just over 4300 digital nomad posts were confirmed in the study.
3 – Medellín, Colombia
Medellín is on the most commonly visited cities in Colombia for American travelers and the top Colombian destination for digital nomads.
In fact, it crushed pre-pandemic tourism numbers by huge numbers! With lovely weather and a low cost of living, this historical city is an amazing fit to embrace those who work from their laptops.
This study confirmed 5100 posts from digital nomads in Medellín.
2 – Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
When travelers think of Brazil, Rio is probably what comes to mind first. This sprawling city with popular beaches and world-famous festivals, such as Carnival, this amazing city has something for everyone.
For digital nomads, it’s the rich culture, warm weather, and low cost of living. It’s no surprise this study verified slightly under 7500 digital nomad posts.
1 – Buenos Aires, Argentina
Argentina has been a hotspot for American tourists this year, but more particularly, the number one spot for digital nomads in South America.
As one of the safest South American destinations, digital nomads feel comfortable calling this immaculate city home all day and night.
There are tons of cultural attractions to keep busy during off-hours, and it is a gateway to more of Argentina’s natural wonders.
Buenos Aires has truly embraced the digital nomad wave. Those arriving at the main airport with a digital nomad visa can pick up a welcome package with a SIM card and discounts for hotels.
Over 9400 posts were verified with #digitalnomad in Buenos Aires.