Since the pandemic came to an end, there has been a change in mindset among numerous desk workers in the UK, as indicated by a recent study. It revealed that 43% of British individuals stated they wouldn't consider applying for a job if its description didn't clearly mention flexibility. Additionally, 37% expressed interest in a hybrid role that would allow them to work while travelling for some of the year. Indeed, the concept of the office being anywhere and the ability to work from any location has gained significant traction. UK Google searches for "Digital Nomad Visa" have soared by 130% in the last year alone, indicating a growing interest in remote work opportunities.

Where are the best cities in the world for Brits to work remotely?

According to a recent study conducted by Currys, which analysed 292 cities globally, several factors were considered to determine the best cities for Brits to work remotely. These factors included monthly rent, basic utility costs, broadband speed, safety index, and length of stay allowed for UK citizens. Each city was rated out of 10 for these criteria, resulting in a total score out of 50, with higher scores indicating the most favourable locations for digital nomads from the UK. 

Among the highest-scoring cities by country, Lima, Peru, emerged as the top destination for those embracing remote work, achieving a score of 38.66 out of 50. Peru allows Brits to stay for up to 183 days without requiring a visa, making it convenient for them to visit and reside for an extended period. Although the rent in Lima is slightly higher compared to some other South American cities in the top 10, averaging around £263 per month for a one-bedroom apartment outside the city centre, it pales in comparison to certain locations in the UK and Canada where rents average over £1,000 per month. 

In second place in the overall rankings is Recife, Brazil, with a score of 37.22 out of 50. Often referred to as the 'Venice of Brazil' due to its intricate network of canals and bridges, Recife is renowned for its stunning beaches and serves as a cultural and naturally beautiful gem. The city excels in affordability and is recognised as a very safe destination, making it an ideal place to spend time for digital nomads seeking both security and immersive experiences.

Belfast took the third spot in Northern Ireland, scoring 35.77 out of a possible 50. While the average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment at £652 falls in the middle range, Belfast offers affordable monthly utilities, fast broadband, and the advantage of being able to stay for up to a year as a UK resident, given its status as a UK city. This combination makes it an appealing option for those seeking a break from the mainland.

Also making the top 10 cities for UK digital nomads:

Guadalajara, Mexico

Cali, Colombia,

Sudbury, Canada

Buenos Aires, Argentina

Guayaquil, Ecuador

Santiago, Chile

Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago