Why does nobody talk about how many digital nomads actually stay in one place?

I just read a report from Nomad List that said over 40% of their members stay in a single city for more than 6 months. Found that out while looking at their 2023 data dump. I always thought the whole point was constant movement, but it seems like a lot of people just find a good spot in, say, Lisbon, and plant roots for a while. Has your experience been more about moving fast or setting up a longer-term base?

3 comments

3 Comments

lane.cameron15d ago

Totally makes sense. That data lines up with what I see in my own circles. After a few months of bouncing around, you just get tired of packing and figuring out new grocery stores. Found a city with good wifi and a decent coffee shop and just... stopped moving for almost a year. The constant travel thing looks better on Instagram than it feels in real life.

annas8715d ago

Honestly, is it that deep? People just do what works for them.

holly71314d ago

Yeah, lane.cameron is right about it looking better online... read this article about how that "digital nomad" life can really burn people out. It's not just about being tired of packing, it's like your brain never gets to shut off because nothing is familiar. You're always a visitor, you know? The idea is fun but the reality gets lonely and stressful after a while. People definitely just find a spot that works and stick with it.