Best Countries for Digital Nomad Families with Kids
Balancing remote work and parenting just got easier.
As remote work becomes more mainstream, more parents are choosing to embrace the digital nomad lifestyle with their children in tow. But not every country is equally supportive of nomadic families. If you're a digital nomad mum or parent looking for the perfect destination to blend work, parenting, and adventure, here are five top countries that offer a strong mix of affordability, safety, and family-friendly resources.
1. Portugal
Best for: Family-friendly cultural, safety, and progressive education
Why it works for digital nomad parents:
Portugal has earned a reputation as one of Europe’s safest and most welcoming countries for families. Cities like Lisbon and Porto offer a vibrant expat community, coworking spaces, and easy access to nature. The country’s public and private schools are of good quality, and many international schools offer bilingual education.
Childcare Costs: Lower than Western Europe; many families hire part-time nannies or use subsidized creches.
Safety: Ranked one of the safest countries globally by the Global Peace Index.
Education: Wide access to international and Montessori schools.
Bonus: Portugal offers a Digital Nomad Visa that allows stays up to 1 year.
2. Costa Rica
Best for: Nature lovers, outdoor learning, and peaceful living
Why it works for digital nomad parents:
Costa Rica’s “Pura Vida” lifestyle makes it ideal for parents who value a slower pace of life. With plenty of outdoor activities, eco-conscious schools, and a strong homeschooling community, it’s a great fit for families.
Childcare Costs: Affordable local nannies and community-run daycare centers.
Safety: Stable and peaceful, though caution is advised in some areas.
Education: Offers bilingual schools, Waldorf and alternative education models.
Bonus: Some coworking spaces offer on-site childcare.
3. Estonia
Best for: Tech-savvy families, digital infrastructure, and urban safety
Why it works for digital nomad parents:
Estonia is one of the most digitally advanced countries in the world. Tallinn offers clean air, child-friendly spaces, and walkable urban centers. Estonia’s e-residency and digital nomad visa make it easy to settle in quickly.
Childcare Costs: Public childcare is subsidized and accessible.
Safety: Very low crime rates.
Education: High-performing public education system and a growing network of international schools.
Bonus: Libraries, museums, and parks are extremely child-friendly.
4. Thailand
Best for: Affordability, child friendly culture, high quality medical and childcare services
Why it works for digital nomad parents:
Cities like Chiang Mai, Bangkok and Hua Hin offer everything from affordable living to high-speed internet and expat-friendly healthcare. International schools are prevalent, and many expat families enjoy a supportive homeschooling network.
Childcare Costs: Extremely affordable; full-time nannies and live-in housekeepers are common.
Safety: Generally safe, though busy cities require extra attention with young children.
Education: Diverse options, including Montessori, Waldorf, Reggio, micro-schools and British and American-curriculum schools.
Bonus: Warm weather and year-round Thai food.
5. New Zealand
Best for: Outdoor families, quality healthcare, and peaceful living
Why it works for digital nomad parents:
New Zealand combines natural beauty with top-notch healthcare and education systems. While it’s not the cheapest option, the quality of life is hard to beat. Cities like Wellington and Auckland have coworking hubs and strong family services.
Childcare Costs: Higher than Asia but offset by quality and regulation.
Safety: Consistently ranks high for quality of life and safety.
Education: World-class public and private education options.
Bonus: Family-oriented visa pathways for skilled and remote workers.
Choosing the right base as a digital nomad parent depends on your priorities: safety, affordability, education, or lifestyle. Fortunately, these five countries offer a bit of everything. Whether you want tropical beaches, European charm, or tech-forward cities, there’s a family-friendly destination waiting for you.
