The Best Family-Friendly Cities for Remote Life in 2025

Jena Pomeroy
Jun 17
3 min read

Where to Live, Learn, and Thrive as a Digital Nomad Family

The dream of living abroad while raising a family and working remotely is no longer just for influencers or the ultra-wealthy. Thanks to progressive visa options, tech-enabled schooling, and more cities embracing slow, intentional living, families today are carving out beautiful lives on the road.

If you're a remote-working parent, digital nomad couple, or worldschooling family dreaming of a new home base, this guide will help you discover the most family-friendly cities in the world to live, work, and thrive together.

🌟 What Makes a City Family-Friendly for Remote Life?

Before we dive into the list, here’s what we looked for when choosing these cities:

Reliable internet & coworking access
Affordable cost of living
Quality healthcare
Safety and walkability
Family housing availability
Outdoor activities & green spaces
Worldschooling/homeschooling communities
Easy visa or residency options for remote workers

These cities are not just kid-friendly—they’re whole-family-friendly, nurturing your personal well-being, your kids’ education, and your remote work success.

🏡 1. Lisbon, Portugal

Sunshine, community, and laid-back coastal living

Why it's great for families:

Lisbon strikes the perfect balance between old-world charm and modern convenience. It's walkable, clean, and bursting with culture. Portuguese people are incredibly warm toward children, and there’s a thriving expat and digital nomad scene.

Highlights:

D7 Visa and Digital Nomad Visa options
International and bilingual schools
Gorgeous beaches just 30–45 minutes away
Trams, playgrounds, and museums galore
High-quality public healthcare

Cost of Living: Moderate (but rising)

Pro tip: Consider Cascais or Sintra for a quieter family base near Lisbon.

🏔️ 2. Chiang Mai, Thailand

Affordable, peaceful, and brimming with nature

Why it's great for families:

Chiang Mai has long been a favorite for digital nomads, and now more families are catching on. With calm surroundings, amazing food, and a low cost of living, this mountain city offers a gentler, more connected lifestyle.

Highlights:

Extremely affordable housing and food
Worldschooling and expat homeschooling co-ops
Kid-friendly cafés and yoga spaces
Nature parks, waterfalls, and elephants!
Great healthcare for a fraction of Western prices

Cost of Living: Very Low

Pro tip: Visit during cool season (Nov–Feb); avoid smoky season in March.

🛶 3. Annecy, France

Lakeside charm with strong family values

Why it's great for families:

Annecy is often overlooked—but for families, it's a dream. Tucked by the Alps and the pristine Lac d’Annecy, this town offers a storybook lifestyle with top-tier education and healthcare systems.

Highlights:

One of the safest towns in France
Stunning nature: hiking, biking, swimming
Strong public education system
Friendly, family-focused community
Slower pace and fresh food markets

Cost of Living: High (but worth it for safety + quality)

Pro tip: Rent a furnished home outside the historic center for better value.

🏖️ 4. Playa del Carmen, Mexico

Vibrant culture, beach life, and remote worker support

Why it's great for families:

With international schools, bilingual communities, and year-round warm weather, Playa is perfect for families who love coastal living and global exposure.

Highlights:

Temporary residency visas are family-accessible
Many English-speaking pediatricians and dentists
Homeschool groups and Montessori options
Caribbean beaches within walking distance
Very affordable compared to the US

Cost of Living: Low to Moderate

Pro tip: Look in quieter areas like Playacar or Puerto Morelos for family vibes.

🛤️ 5. Tbilisi, Georgia

Off-the-beaten-path wonder with strong digital nomad appeal

Why it's great for families:

Tbilisi is one of Europe’s most underrated cities—and a gem for digital nomad families. It's affordable, filled with green spaces, and offers a unique cultural experience with a welcoming expat scene.

Highlights: