One thing is for certain: The rise of digital nomads has drastically changed the travel industry in the past few years, for better or worse. During the COVID-19 pandemic, many companies switched to remote work models, which inspired many employees to take their work on the road. Today, there are tens of millions of digital nomads around the world, and that number is only expected to grow!
If you want to learn more about digital nomads or are thinking of joining the ranks of remote workers, here are 52 digital nomad statistics that you need to know!
Highlighted Digital Nomad Statistics
- In a study from March 2024, it was found that 35% of digital nomads around the world make between $100,000 and $250,000 each year. However, a smaller group, about 6%, earn less than $25,000 a year. (Statista)
- The top destinations for digital nomads are Malta, Portugal, Spain, Thailand, Argentina, and Mexico. (Readers Digest)
- In 2023, there were already 40 million digital nomads worldwide. This number is expected to increase to about 60 million by 2030. (The Guardian)
- In the digital nomad community, men make up 56% of the workforce, while women represent 43%, and non-binary individuals account for 1%. (Yahoo Finance)
- The digital nomad community grew by 131% from 2019 to 2022, which means their numbers have tripled since the start of the pandemic. However, since 2022, the growth rate has slowed to about 2% annually. (Forbes)
Digital Nomad Demographic Statistics
Who are digital nomads? How old are they? And what are their backgrounds? In this section, we will look into some interesting stats on digital nomad demographics that will help to answer these burning questions.
1. 47% of Digital Nomads Are Between the Ages of 30-39
The largest age group of DNs is 30-39 at 47%. Then, surprisingly, the second largest group is those aged 50-59, at 19%, followed by 40-49 year olds at 16%.
Younger digital nomads, aged 20-29, make up 14%, while those between 60-69 years old are 3%, and those 70 and older are just 1%. It shows that while digital nomadism is popular among those in their thirties, it spans all age groups. (Nomad Offshore Academy)
2. Largest Group of Digital Nomads Belongs to Millennials
Social media may give you a false impression of the age of most digital nomads. In 2023, there were several different generations living the digital nomad lifestyle. Millennials (born 1980-1996) made up the largest group at 37%, followed by Gen X (born 1965-1980) at 27%, Gen Z (born 1997-2012) at 21%, and Baby Boomers (born 1946-1964) at 15%. (MBO Partners)
3. 90% of Digital Nomads Have Higher Education
90% of digital nomads have completed higher education. Of these, 33% have master’s degrees, and 54% hold bachelor’s degrees.
Only 10% have just a high school diploma, and 3% have earned a PhD. Digital nomads generally have a strong educational background, which may equip them with skills needed for remote work.
4. More Than Half of Digital Nomads Have Families
Contrary to the stereotype of digital nomads being single young professionals, the majority (58.8%) are married or equivalent, and nearly half (48.3%) have children under 18. (Forbes)
5. 26% of Digital Nomads Have Young Children, Most Do Not Travel with Them
While 26% of digital nomads have children aged 18 or under, 59% choose not to travel with their kids due to challenges such as schooling.
However, 41% manage to combine travel and work with their children, exploring new ways to balance family life. (UNECE)
6. 35% of Digital Nomads Are Looking for New Friends
When it comes to personal relationships, 35% of digital nomads are primarily seeking friendships. Additionally, 32% look for travel companions, 16% are interested in casual dating, and 13% are in search of more serious relationships.
A smaller group, 5%, is open to polyamorous relationships.
7. 74.5% Became Digital Nomads During the Pandemic
Almost three-quarters (74.5%) of digital nomads say they started working remotely because of the pandemic. The global crisis pushed people to find new ways of working that didn’t require going into an office. (Forbes)
8. Digital Nomad Numbers Tripled After the Pandemic
The digital nomad community grew by 131% from 2019 to 2022, which means their numbers have tripled since the start of the pandemic.
However, since 2022, the growth rate has slowed to about 2% annually.
9. 76% of Digital Nomads Are Caucasians
Among digital nomads, the majority, 76%, are of European descent, making them the largest ethnic group in this community.
The next largest groups are Latinos at 10%, followed by Asians at 8%, and individuals of African descent at 6%. (Digital Nomad Observatory)
10. Almost Half of Digital Nomads Come From the USA
As of March 2024, 46% of digital nomads come from the United States, making it the largest home country for digital nomads. 7% comes from the UK, which is the second largest home country for digital nomads. (Statista)
11. 61% Started Working as Digital Nomads in Their 20s
While 61% of digital nomads report starting their nomadic lifestyle in their 20s, a significant number, 39%, began at age 30 or older.
This tells us that while many nomads start young, a considerable portion of the community later transitions into this way of life.
12. 24% Have Been a Digital Nomad for More Than 5 Years
42% have been following this lifestyle for less than a year, suggesting a growing interest in remote work and travel.
Meanwhile, 33% have been digital nomads for 1 to 5 years, and 24% have lived this way for more than five years, indicating a strong dedication among a sizable group. (FlexJobs)
Digital Nomad Jobs
The one million dollar question. What jobs are digital nomads working? In recent years, many jobs have moved to remote working standards, so there are tons of job opportunities for those aspiring to become digital nomads. Make sure to check out our guide to the best entry-level digital nomad jobs!
13. 93% of Digital Nomads Are Satisfied with Their Jobs
A huge majority of digital nomads are happier and more productive as remote workers. Specifically, 93% feel more satisfied with their jobs, and 90% say they are more productive.
Also, 61% feel less stressed, and 44% report that their mental health has improved. Additionally, 30% believe that being in a better financial situation has helped increase their overall happiness and well-being.
14. Majority of Digital Nomads Prefer to Work From a Home Office
Most digital nomads prefer working from a home office, with 59% using this as their primary workspace. Coworking spaces are the second most popular option, used by 15% of nomads. Additionally, 8% work from cafes, and 6% from traditional offices.
The remaining 12% work from various other locations, indicating the wide array of environments that accommodate the digital nomad lifestyle.
15. 78% of Digital Nomads Rely on Digital Connections
Nearly 8 out of every 10 digital nomads, or 78%, say that their work is heavily dependent on digital connections.
In comparison, only 56% of workers who are not digital nomads report the same.
16. Highest Percentage of Digital Nomads Work in Information Technology
The largest percentage, 19%, work in information technology. Following closely are creative services with 14%, while education and training, along with sales, marketing, and PR, each contribute 9%.
Finance and accounting roles are held by 8%, and consulting, coaching, and research by 7%. The wide range of professions shows the versatility and adaptability of the digital nomad workforce.
17. Digital Nomads Use Technology to Stay Competitive
A significant 79% of digital nomads use technology to maintain a competitive edge in their work, a stark contrast to the 44% of non-digital nomads who say the same.
Moreover, 77% of digital nomads are early adopters of new technologies, compared to just 43% among their non-nomadic counterparts. Digital nomads are particularly proactive in adapting new technological tools to increase their productivity and efficiency.
18. Most Digital Nomads Work Full Time
Full-time work is the most common, accounting for 41% of digital nomads. Both freelancing and being a startup founder are popular as well, each holding 17%.
Some work as full-time contractors (9%), others are employed by agencies (8%), and a small percentage fall into various other categories (5%). Only 2% work part-time, and another 2% are part-time contractors.
19. Average Income Is $50,000 to $99,999 Annually
Most digital nomads earn between $50,000 and $99,999 annually. Working on hourly rates, remote workers typically earn between $10 and $30 based on their qualifications, experience, and industry. (Citizen Remote)
20. 70% Work 40 Hours per Week or Fewer
Around 70% of digital nomads work 40 hours per week or fewer. In contrast, only one-third of digital nomads work more than 40 hours per week.
This figure is much lower compared to the general population, where 86% of men and 67% of women in the non-nomad workforce report working more than 40 hours per week.
21. Software Development Has the Highest Percentage of Digital Nomad Men
Digital nomad men primarily work in technology and entrepreneurship. The most common fields include software development, where 34% of nomad men are employed, showing a mind-boggling 242% higher participation than women.
Web development follows with 28% of nomad men engaged, which is 255% higher than women. The third major field is as a startup founder, with 27% of men working in this area, which is 134% more than their female counterparts.
22. Most Digital Nomad Women Work in Marketing
15% of nomad women work in marketing, which matches the percentage of men in the same field. Creative roles are also popular, with 15% of women involved, showing a 21% higher representation than men.
Additionally, 11% of women work as startup founders, which is 57% less compared to the participation rate of men in this sector.
23. Skype Is the Most Used Communication Tool of Digital Nomads
Communication tools have taken the world by storm in the past few decades, especially since the pandemic. The most popular tool among digital nomads for communication is Skype, used by 67%. Google Chat follows at 34%, GoToMeeting at 32%, Google Hangouts at 29%, and Zoom at 24%.
24. 91% of Digital Nomads Use a Laptop for Work
The most critical technology tool for digital nomads is the laptop, essential for 91% of them. Close behind is the cell phone at 88%.
Other important tools include a battery charger (67%), a hotspot device (51%) for reliable internet access, and a wall power outlet adapter (48%), which is important for keeping devices powered up.
Are you in the market for a new laptop? Check out our list of the 10 best laptops for digital nomads!
Where Are Digital Nomads Traveling?
One of the defining characteristics of the digital nomad lifestyle is the ability to freely roam the globe and set up your remote office in essentially any country with a good wifi connection. So, where are digital nomads traveling to? Let’s take a look at what the statistics show!
25. United States Tops Visited Countries by Digital Nomads
As of March 2024, the United States remains the most visited destination for digital nomads, attracting about 14% of their travel activities globally.
The popularity of the U.S. is likely due to the fact that most digital nomads are US citizens, so they likely travel to and from the US often. (Statista)
26. Spain Is the Favorite Destination in Europe
Spain is the preferred spot for digital nomads in Europe, mainly because it offers a digital nomad visa, has a lower cost of living than other Western European countries, and has a relaxed lifestyle. The country also offers reduced tax rates to digital nomads and has some of the highest internet speeds in the world. (EuroNews)
27. Romania Attracts with High Internet Speed and Low Living Costs
Romania ranks second in Europe for digital nomads due to having the highest internet speed of all surveyed countries and the lowest monthly living cost at €539.
However, it sets a high minimum income requirement of €3,300 for its visa, which might be a hurdle for some.
28. Cyprus Is the Least Visited Country By Digital Nomads In Europe
Cyprus ranks as the least favorable country in Europe for digital nomads, coming in second-last globally.
After a six-month tax-free period, digital nomads in Cyprus face a high tax rate of 20 to 35%. The country also imposes a high minimum income requirement of €3,500 and suffers from some of the lowest internet speeds in Europe.
29. London Is the Most Visited City by Digital Nomads
The top cities for digital nomads based on visits are London, Bangkok, New York City, Berlin, and Lisbon.
London leads with 2.28% of visits, followed closely by Bangkok at 2.02%. New York City, Berlin, and Lisbon also rank highly, with 1.55%, 1.52%, and 1.51%, respectively.
30. Bangkok Is the Top Destination for Male Digital Nomads, While Women Prefer Lisbon
Digital nomad men visit Bangkok 22% more often than women, making it their top destination. Conversely, men visit Lisbon and Barcelona less frequently than women, by 14% and 9% respectively. Coworking spaces, reliable internet, and highly developed infrastructure attract digital nomads to Bangkok.
Natural landscapes, low-cost living, and multicultural experience are the top reasons women are choosing Lisbon as their top destination in Portugal.
31. Growing Remote Work Hubs Over the Last 5 Years
The remote work hubs that have consistently grown in the last five years include Florianopolis, Asuncion, Mumbai, and Rio de Janeiro.
Florianopolis in Brazil leads with a staggering 150% growth, followed by Asuncion and Mumbai with 63% and 54%, respectively. (Nomad List)
32. Mexico Is the Top Destination for Digital Nomads Based on Visa Offerings
While the US is a top travel destination for digital nomads, Mexico ranked as the best country based on visa offerings, followed by Germany, Thailand, Georgia, and the Czech Republic. Due to the cost and administrative requirements and the freedom they provide, the ability to get a visa is a key factor for digital nomads.
Countries that offer long-term working visas or specific digital nomad visas become more attractive because they combine ease of living with other desirable features and attractions. (InterNations)
Digital Nomad Lifestyle Statistics
Next, let’s break down the lifestyle and daily habits of digital nomads. This will give you some insight into the type of people who are more likely to embrace the nomadic life.
33. More Than Half of Digital Nomads Do Not Follow Any Religion
Over half of digital nomads, 54%, do not follow any religion, highlighting a secular trend within the community.
Meanwhile, 28% consider themselves spiritual but not religious. Other beliefs are less common, with Christianity at 9%, Buddhism at 3%, and Astrology, Islam, and Judaism at 2%. Hinduism accounts for 1% of the community.
34. Majority of Digital Nomads Visit 1-2 Countries
Most digital nomads, 73%, typically visit 1 to 2 countries. A smaller group, 19%, travels to 3 to 4 countries, and only 8% visit more than 5 countries.
This pattern shows that while some nomads are extensive travelers, the majority prefer to explore a smaller number of locations.
35. 53% of Digital Nomads Own a Home
About 53% of digital nomads own a home, while the remaining 47% do not own any property and prefer to live a more liberated lifestyle.
36. Flexibility in Work Schedule Is a Top Benefit for Digital Nomads
One of the foremost benefits reported by digital nomads is the flexibility in work schedules. It allows individuals to change their work hours to fit personal preferences and enable a balance between work and leisure that suits their individual needs.
37. Most Digital Nomads Are Heterosexul
The majority of digital nomads identify as heterosexual, comprising 87% of the group. Bisexual individuals represent 8%, while those who are gay or lesbian make up 5%.
38. Most Digital Nomads Eat Meat
Among digital nomad men, 75% eat meat while 25% do not, with 11% identifying as vegetarian. In contrast, 56% of nomad women consume meat, whereas 44% abstain from meat, including 19% who are vegetarian.
39. Hiking Is the Preferred Hobby of Male and Female Digital Nomads
Hiking is popular among digital nomads, with 49% of men and 52% of women participating in this sport. Interestingly, hiking is slightly more favored by women in the nomad community.
40. Half of the Digital Nomads Plan Slow Travel in the Future
Nearly half of digital nomads plan to engage in slow travel over the next year. Often referred to as “slowmad” travel, it is preferred for its benefits, such as increased social interactions, lower travel costs, deeper cultural understanding, less travel-related stress, and boosted work productivity.
41. 14% of Digital Nomads Travel with Pets
A surprising number of digital nomads include pets in their travels at 14%! It shows that for some, traveling with pets is an integral part of their lifestyle, adding companionship and a sense of home while on the move.
42. Getting Tired of Continuos Traveling Is the Top Reason for Digital Nomads to Quit
Former digital nomads told several reasons for quitting their nomadic lifestyle: the weariness of constant travel, increasing costs, and complex logistics. Other factors include feelings of loneliness, the difficulty of managing work alongside full-time travel and missing family and friends.
These challenges show that the digital nomad lifestyle isn’t all sunshine and daisies and that, for many, it is only sustainable for the short term.
Digital Nomad Impacts on the World
We talk a lot about digital nomad sustainability and ethics here at The Nomad Almanac, but we will let the stats do the talking here.
43. Digital Nomads Environmental Impact Producing 75% Less CO2 Than Average Americans
Though digital nomads often fly between destinations, they typically travel slower than tourists and rely more on public transport rather than owning or purchasing cars.
This behavior significantly reduces their carbon footprint—data suggests that the average digital nomad produces 75% less CO2 than the average American. (Plumia)
44. 66% Paying Taxes to Home Country
A majority of digital nomads, 66%, report paying taxes to their home country, whereas only 19.4% pay taxes to the countries they visit. This raises some ethical eyebrows and leads us to wonder how digital nomads can contribute more to their host communities.
45. Economic and Social Impacts of Digital Nomads, Including Positive and Negative Spillovers
Both private and public sectors value digital nomads for their economic contributions, skills, and potential to address labor shortages and increase regional development.
However, their presence can also pressure local labor markets, especially when they engage in business with local clients. It potentially leads to higher prices and gentrification in the areas they are meant to benefit. (IOM)
46. Digital Nomads and Territorial Development Promoting Growth in Loulé Portugal
In regions like the municipality of Loulé in Portugal, initiatives are underway to attract digital nomads to inland areas to promote growth and development. These efforts aim to repopulate remote areas and boost local economies through the influx of remote workers.
47. Digital Nomads Spend 35% of Income Where They Live
Digital nomads typically spend at least 35% of their income on essentials such as food, accommodation, and entertainment.
Nomads are perceived as “generous consumers” by local authorities, notably contributing to local economies by spending money in the places they reside, especially during off-peak tourist seasons. (Netcom)
48. Global Economic Contribution of Digital Nomads Totals $787 Billion Annually
Digital nomads contribute an estimated $787 billion annually to the global economy. If the global digital nomad movement were a country, it would rank 41st in terms of population. It clearly shows the significant economic impact of this growing demographic. (NewlandChase)
Looking into the Future for Digital Nomads
“Digital nomadism” has grown significantly in the past few years. What started as a fringe group of alternative travelers a decade ago is now a massive community that can be found in all corners of the world. So, what does the future hold for digital nomads?
49. 24 Million Americans Plan to Be Digital Nomads
In 2023, about 24 million adult Americans wanted to become digital nomads within the next two to three years.
Another 46 million are considering it, though this interest has slightly decreased by 3% compared to 2022. It indicates a growing curiosity about digital nomadism, though actual commitment may vary.
50. Only 7 to 9% of Potential Nomads Commit
Although millions of Americans consider adopting a digital nomad lifestyle, studies show that only 7 to 9% of those who say they will become digital nomads actually do.
The vast majority remain “armchair digital nomads,” those who enjoy the idea and follow others’ journeys without making the leap themselves.
51. 1 Billion Digital Nomads by 2035
The number of digital nomads in the United States has increased fourfold since the pandemic began. It reflects a broader global trend in remote work adoption and the digital nomad lifestyle.
Globally, the founder of Nomad List, Pieter Levels, has projected that the number of digital nomads could soar to 1 billion by 2035. An astonishing growth of nearly 3,000% from current figures highlights this lifestyle’s increasing appeal and feasibility worldwide. (Forbes)
52. SEO Specialist Is One of the Top Digital Nomad Roles in 2024
The landscape of work for digital nomads is diverse, with some roles proving particularly popular in 2024. These include SEO Specialists, Social Media Managers, and Web Developers.
Freelance Writers, Graphic Designers, Influencers/Content Creators, and Virtual Assistants are also in high demand. (GoOverseas)
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