The COVID-19 pandemic has forever changed our work habits and ushered in an era where remote or hybrid work models are increasingly becoming the norm. This massive shift in where work is expected to take place raises a central question: where are the best places to work remotely?
The Global Remote Work Index 2023an extensive study conducted by cybersecurity firm Nordlayer, offers some insights.
The report analyzes data from 108 countries and evaluates them based on various parameters, including healthcare, socio-economic factors, human rights protection and internet stability.
The findings show a clear trend Europe is emerging as a leading destination for remote workers, taking all the top 10 positions.
Denmark stands out as the overall leader when it comes to factors such as social and economic security, digital and physical infrastructure and cybersecurity. This may not come as a surprise, as Denmark has also often topped the list of happiest countries in the world in various indices in recent years. Despite the high cost of living and expensive internet, excellent internet quality, social inclusion and healthcare put Denmark at the top of the list.
The following are closely followed Netherlands and Germany, each distinguished by their unique strengths. The Netherlands excels in the areas of personal rights, inclusivity and social security, while Germany has a robust legal system and the most affordable internet, in addition to high economic security for homeworkers.
Portugal presents a unique case. It ranks sixth overall and offers a cheaper cost of living compared to its European counterparts. This positions Portugal as an attractive option for remote workers looking for value for money.
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Interestingly, the study notes that although European countries dominate the top positions, they often lag behind in digital infrastructure compared to Asian countries. Singapore, South Korea and the United Arab Emirates lead in this category, although their overall rankings in the index are lower. This discrepancy highlights the differing priorities and values in different regions.
The report also sheds light on countries that excel in economic security for remote workers. Countries such as the United Kingdom, the United States, Australia, New Zealand, Germany and Spain are leading the way in this area, along with other countries such as Malta. This also points to why many digital nomads come from these countries.
The European dominance in the index is notable, but it is important to recognize the varying priorities of individuals when choosing a remote work location. Factors such as the cost of living, internet affordability and social benefits play an important role in these decisions. One factor not mentioned in the index, but important to remote workers looking to save on transportation costs, is a city’s walkability. Getting from one place to another quickly and cheaply often leads to greater satisfaction among residents.
Overall, the Global Remote Work Index 2023 provides a comprehensive overview of the best places for remote work, taking into account a wide range of factors. It underlines the impact of the pandemic on our working habits and highlights the changing nature of the global workforce. As remote work remains an important aspect of our professional lives, understanding these dynamics becomes crucial for both individuals and organizations navigating this new normal.
