Why Penang Stands Out as the Cheapest Hub for Digital Nomads

The recent ranking by digital‑marketing agency Click Intelligence examined 26 cities in 15 countries, looking at living costs, internet connectivity, safety and visa accessibility. Penang topped the list, making it a noteworthy option for remote workers.

Penang earned an overall score of 0.78 out of 1, beating South Korea’s Busan (0.72) and Malaysia’s capital Kuala Lumpur (0.59). These scores placed it ahead of other well‑known digital‑nomad spots in the study.

The study estimated that a single person could live in Penang for about €850 ($950) per month, with a one‑bedroom city‑center rent averaging €393. The remaining €457 would cover food, transport, internet and other expenses.

Beyond low costs, Penang benefited from Malaysia’s strong internet connectivity and the DE Rantau Nomad Pass, which lets eligible foreign remote workers stay for 12 months and renew if needed. These factors helped improve the city’s ranking.

James Owen, co‑founder and director of Click Intelligence, said Penang’s appeal also comes from the widespread use of English, its cultural attractions and a well‑developed network of cafés and coworking spaces. He noted that these amenities complement the city’s affordability for remote professionals.

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