Top 7 Countries with Fastest Internet Speed for Digital Nomads in 2024
More people are turning to remote work and becoming digital nomads. Whether leaving behind the hustle and bustle of big cities, looking for a big city, or experiencing brain drain and searching for a better, healthier work-life balance, more remote workers are looking abroad. But to work remotely, you will need a good internet connection.
Digital nomads know how important it is to have a fast and reliable internet connection. Whether you need to upload files, stream videos, or join online meetings, you don't want to waste time and money on slow or unstable internet. That's why choosing a destination with high-speed internet is essential for your productivity and satisfaction.
But where can you find the fastest internet speed in the world? According to the Speedtest Global Index, which ranks countries by their average download speed on fixed broadband and mobile, the top 7 countries with the fastest internet speed for digital nomads as of November 2023 are:
Singapore
Hong Kong
Chile
United Arab Emirates
China
Thailand
United States
Singapore
Image: Mike Enerio
With an average broadband speed of 264.15 Mbps and a mobile speed of 89.45 Mbps, Singapore is the fastest country in the world for internet speed. The island nation is also a hub for innovation, business, and culture, making it an attractive destination for digital nomads who want to enjoy a high quality of life and a cosmopolitan environment. Singapore has a high cost of living, with an average monthly expense of $3285 for a single person. Singapore offers visa-free entry for nationals of about 170 countries and territories, who can stay for periods varying from 7 days to 180 days depending on nationality.
Hong Kong
Hong Kong is the second-fastest country in the world for internet speed, with an average of 263.07 Mbps. Hong Kong is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city that offers a mix of cultures, cuisines, and attractions. Hong Kong is also a major financial center and a gateway to mainland China. Hong Kong has a high cost of living, with an average monthly expense of $2630 for a single person. Hong Kong grants visa-free entry to nationals of about 170 countries and territories, who can stay for periods ranging from 7 days to 180 days depending on nationality.
Image: Nic Low
Chile
Chile is the third-fastest country in the world for internet speed, with an average broadband speed of 248.65 Mbps and a mobile speed of 34.97 Mbps. The South American country offers a diverse landscape, from the Andes mountains to the Pacific coast, as well as a vibrant culture, a stable economy, and a friendly visa policy for remote workers. Chile has a moderate cost of living, with an average monthly expense of $1021 for a single person. Chile offers visa-free entry to nationals of about 90 countries and territories, who can stay for up to 90 days without a visa.
Image: Bailey Hall
United Arab Emirates
The UAE is the fourth-fastest country in the world for internet speed, with an average broadband speed of 235.72 Mbps and a mobile speed of 503.07 Mbps. The Gulf state is also a global center for trade, tourism, and innovation, with modern infrastructure, luxury amenities, and a rich cultural heritage. The UAE has a high cost of living, with an average monthly expense of $1719 for a single person. The UAE grants visa-free entry to nationals of about 60 countries and territories, who can stay for up to 90 days without a visa.
Image: David Rodrigo
China
China is the fifth-fastest country in the world for internet speed, with an average broadband speed of 230.39 Mbps and a mobile speed of 208.05 Mbps. The Asian giant is also one of the most populous and diverse countries in the world, with a long history, a dynamic culture, and a booming economy. China has a low cost of living, with an average monthly expense of $678 for a single person. China requires a visa for most foreign nationals who wish to enter the country, except for those who qualify for the visa-free transit policy or other exemptions.
Image: Toby Yang
Thailand
Thailand is the sixth-fastest country in the world for internet speed, with an average broadband speed of 218.94 Mbps and a mobile speed of 81.44 Mbps. The Southeast Asian country is also one of the most popular destinations for digital nomads, thanks to its tropical climate, stunning beaches, delicious cuisine, and low cost of living. Thailand also has a vibrant community of remote workers, entrepreneurs, and travelers who can help you network and socialize. Thailand has a low cost of living, with an average monthly expense of $817 for a single person. Thailand offers visa-free entry to nationals of about 60 countries and territories, who can stay for up to 30 days without a visa.
Image: Pascal Debrunner
United States
The US is the seventh-fastest country in the world for internet speed, with an average broadband speed of 215.72 Mbps and a mobile speed of 202.04 Mbps. The North American country is also one of the most diverse and developed countries in the world, with a wide range of cities, states, and regions to choose from. Whether you prefer urban or rural settings, warm or cold weather, or cultural or natural attractions, you can find something that suits your preferences and needs in the US. The United States has a high cost of living, with an average monthly expense of $2434 for a single person, even though the federal minimum wage is still $7.25 per hour. The United States requires a visa for most foreign nationals who wish to enter the country, except for those who are eligible for the Visa Waiver Program or other exemptions.
Image: Keith Luke
These countries offer not only fast internet speed but also many other benefits for digital nomads who want to live and work abroad. However, before you pack your bags and book your flight, you should also consider some other factors that may affect your decision, such as:
The cost of living: Depending on your budget and lifestyle, you may find some countries more affordable or expensive than others. You should research the average prices of accommodation, food, transportation, entertainment, health care, and other expenses in your chosen destination and compare them with your income and savings.
The visa requirements: Depending on your nationality and duration of stay, you may need to apply for a visa or a permit to enter and work in your chosen destination. You should check the visa policies and procedures of each country and make sure you have all the necessary documents and fees ready before you travel.
The culture shock: Depending on your background and personality, you may find some countries more familiar or different than others. You should learn about the culture, customs, language, values, and etiquette of each country and prepare yourself for any potential challenges or misunderstandings that may arise during your stay.
To help you make an informed decision about where to go as a digital nomad, you can check out Xfinity Internet plans and other Xfinity tools, which allow you to compare the internet speed, cost, and availability of different destinations around the world. You can also read reviews, blogs, and guides from other digital nomads who have lived and worked in these countries and get their insights and tips.
Choosing a destination with fast internet speed is important for digital nomads, but it is not the only factor to consider. You should also weigh the pros and cons of each country and find the one that matches your goals, preferences, and expectations. By doing so, you can enjoy a rewarding and fulfilling experience as a digital nomad.
References:
https://worldpopulationreview.com/country-rankings/internet-speeds-by-country
https://www.ica.gov.sg/enter-transit-depart/entering-singapore/visa_requirements
https://www.chinahighlights.com/hong-kong/visa.htm
https://www.visahq.com/united-arab-emirates/
https://www.visahq.com/thailand/
