If you work remotely and are thinking about trading your home office for a more inspiring view, here’s some good news: in 2025, Rio de Janeiro was named the best winter destination for digital nomads, according to the Nomad List ranking. Yes, Rio ranked higher than cities like Bangkok, Buenos Aires, Cape Town, and even Lisbon.
But what makes so many people choose the Cidade Maravilhosa as a temporary (or even permanent) base from which to live and work?
Below, we’ll show you why Rio is increasingly on the radar of digital nomads — based on our own experience and the data from the report that placed the city at the top.
1. Work with quality of life: sun, sea and a unique vibe
The first image that comes to mind when people think of Rio is probably the beach. And yes, it’s part of many people’s daily routine here. But you might not realize that this beautiful landscape also contributes to the well-being and productivity of remote workers. A swim before your workday starts, a coffee break by the ocean, or a sunset at Arpoador after a long day really makes a difference.
More than just beauty, Rio offers a quality of life that’s hard to find in other major cities. According to the Nomad List ranking, the city’s climate — with an average annual temperature of 23.6°C (74.5°F) — was one of the main reasons for its first-place spot. Not too hot, not too cold. It’s just perfect for living outdoors all year long.
It’s true that in summer, temperatures can reach 40°C (104°F). But if you’re a digital nomad, you can easily skip this season — which also happens to be high season in the city — between December and March.
Read also our Weather in Rio de Janeiro: when is the best time to visit Rio
2. Affordable cost of living (especially if you earn in a stronger currency)
Let’s be honest: Rio used to have a reputation for unreliable internet. But that’s changing. According to the Nomad List report, the city also stood out for its connectivity. And we can confirm — with a solid internet provider or fiber plan, you can easily work from home, a café, or a coworking space.
Speaking of which, Rio’s coworking spaces are becoming cooler and more functional every year. In Botafogo, Glória, Ipanema, and even the city center, you’ll find great spots with private offices, integrated cafés, events, and a vibrant community of freelancers, creatives, and entrepreneurs.
3. Good infrastructure (and getting better every year)
Let’s be honest: Rio used to have a reputation for unreliable internet. But that’s changing. According to the Nomad List report, the city also stood out for its connectivity. And we can confirm — with a solid internet provider or fiber plan, you can easily work from home, a café, or a coworking space.
Speaking of which, Rio’s coworking spaces are becoming cooler and more functional every year. In Botafogo, Glória, Ipanema, and even the city center, you’ll find great spots with private offices, integrated cafés, events, and a vibrant community of freelancers, creatives, and entrepreneurs.
Read also our Public Transportation Guide
4. A vibrant, welcoming lifestyle
Rio is a city where work blends into life. And that, for digital nomads, makes all the difference—the city pulses. There’s music in the streets, local markets, exhibitions, events, networking meetups, samba circles, June festivals, and even yoga and meditation retreats tucked into the forest. There’s something for everyone.
Another highlight is how welcoming Cariocas (locals) are. They’re known for their warmth, which extends to the digital nomad community. In March 2025, for example, Rio hosted The Nomad World, an international gathering of remote professionals from around the globe looking to connect and share experiences.
5. Stunning nature and endless inspiration
Some days, creativity doesn’t flow. That’s when it helps to be surrounded by nature — and in that regard, Rio is unbeatable.
In addition to its iconic beaches, the city offers breathtaking hikes (like Morro Dois Irmãos, Pedra Bonita, and the Tijuca Forest), parks, waterfalls, and islands — all within less than an hour from downtown. You can enjoy outdoor adventures every day without ever leaving the city.
Read also Top 5 places surrounded by nature to visit in Rio.
Here are a few practical tips
If you’re considering Rio as your next base, here are some helpful suggestions:
Best neighborhoods for short-term stays:
- Botafogo is centrally located and modern, with great coworking spaces and one of the best food scenes in the city.
- Copacabana is the most touristic neighborhood and offers a wide variety of accommodations, restaurants, beach access, and metro stations steps away.
- Ipanema and Leblon are the most upscale areas, full of charm and refined options.
- Laranjeiras, Flamengo, and Glória have excellent cost-benefit options and easy access to the metro and the other neighborhoods above.
- Santa Teresa is ideal for those who value artsy, authentic vibes.
Read also Where to stay in Rio.
Carioca Tip:
While some listings in Rio’s favelas (hilltop communities) promise authentic experiences and stunning views, we do not recommend staying in these areas. Even in so-called “pacified” communities, safety issues can still arise — especially for those unfamiliar with the local dynamics. For a more comfortable and secure stay, we suggest focusing on neighborhoods with better infrastructure and access, like the ones mentioned above.
Coworking spaces:
Both branches have spaces and partnerships in various neighborhoods of the city. Check their full list on their official websites.
Getting around:
The metro is safe and efficient. Ride-sharing apps like Uber and 99 work well, and the VLT (light rail) is a great option in the Downtown area. You can easily get by without a car.
Internet:
Fiber-optic plans with fast speeds are widely available through providers like Vivo and Claro. Many cafés and public spaces also offer decent free Wi-Fi.
Want to experience life like a true carioca?
If you’re considering making Rio your next remote work base, Rio de Janeiro by Cariocas offers a special concierge service for digital nomads. We help you settle in, choose the perfect neighborhood, find housing, understand how the city works, and uncover the secrets only a local would know.
Just get in touch with our sales team or send us an email at:
[email protected]
Come live Rio with us — at your pace, your way.
