30 Best Jobs for Digital Nomads

Best Fully Remote Jobs for Digital Nomads (With Salaries And Core Duties)

Slow travel through Italy and code from a quaint restaurant, or explore the bustling markets of Morocco and post on a client’s social media.

Brainstorm marketing strategies while kayaking through the fjords of Norway, or develop website designs from a camp in Costa Rica's rainforests.

These are just some possibilities of a digital nomadic lifestyle.

It gives you a chance to make a living and live life to the fullest at the same time. Not to mention, you get to experience new cultures, broaden your perspectives, and enjoy the freedom of location independence.

But why become a digital nomad, you might ask?

Well, let's face it: the traditional 9-to-5 is fading fast. More and more people are realizing they can work from anywhere with an internet connection.

Do you also want to work remotely and travel the world in 2025? Read on to find out the top 30 high-paying digital nomad jobs that can make this happen.

Tech & Development

1. Software Developer (Full-stack, Front-end, Back-end)

Salary: $70,000 - $150,000+

Tools: Programming languages (JavaScript, Python, Java, etc.), IDEs (VS Code, IntelliJ), version control (Git), project management tools (Jira, Asana, Trello)

Duties:

• Developing and maintaining software applications

• Writing clean, efficient, and well-documented code

• Collaborating with other developers and stakeholders

• Troubleshooting and debugging code

• Participating in code reviews

• Staying up-to-date with the latest technologies

2. Cybersecurity Specialist

Salary: $80,000 - $160,000+

Tools: Network security tools (Wireshark, Nmap), penetration testing tools (Metasploit), SIEM systems, cloud security platforms

Duties:

• Identifying and mitigating security risks

• Conducting security audits and assessments

• Developing and implementing security policies

• Responding to security incidents

• Educating users about security best practices

3. Data Scientist

Salary: $90,000 - $180,000+

Tools: Programming languages (Python, R), machine learning libraries (Scikit-learn, TensorFlow), data visualization tools (Tableau, Power BI), cloud computing platforms (AWS, Azure)

Duties:

• Collecting, cleaning, and analyzing data

• Developing machine learning models

• Building data pipelines

• Creating data visualizations to communicate insights

• Collaborating with business stakeholders

4. AI/ML Engineer

Salary: $100,000 - $200,000+

Tools: Programming languages (Python), machine learning frameworks (TensorFlow, PyTorch), cloud computing platforms (AWS, GCP), deep learning libraries

Duties:

• Designing and developing AI/ML models

• Deploying and maintaining AI/ML systems

• Optimizing model performance

• Working with large datasets

• Collaborating with data scientists and other engineers

5. Blockchain Developer

Salary: $90,000 - $170,000+

Tools: Programming languages (Solidity, Rust), blockchain platforms (Ethereum, Hyperledger), smart contract development tools, Cryptography libraries

Duties:

• Developing and deploying blockchain applications

• Writing smart contracts

• Integrating blockchain technology with existing systems

• Researching and evaluating new blockchain technologies

• Ensuring the security of blockchain applications

• Collaborating with other developers and stakeholders

6. Cloud Architect

Salary: $100,000 - $200,000+

Tools: Cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP), infrastructure-as-code tools (Terraform, CloudFormation), containerization technologies (Docker, Kubernetes)

Duties:

• Designing and implementing scalable cloud infrastructure

• Migrating applications to the cloud

• Automating cloud operations

• Managing cloud costs

• Collaborating with other engineers and stakeholders

7. DevOps Engineer

Salary: $90,000 - $180,000+

Tools: Cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP), containerization technologies (Docker, Kubernetes), CI/CD tools (Jenkins, GitLab CI), configuration management tools (Ansible, Puppet)

Duties:

• Automating software deployment and infrastructure management

• Building and maintaining CI/CD pipelines

• Monitoring system performance

• Troubleshooting and resolving system issues

• Collaborating with developers and operations teams

• Improving system reliability and efficiency

Marketing & Content

8. SEO Specialist

Salary: $50,000 - $120,000+

Tools: SEO tools (Ahrefs, SEMrush, Google Analytics, Google Search Console), keyword research tools, content optimization tools

Duties:

• Conducting keyword research

• Optimizing website content and structure

• Guest post and blog outreach

• Building a solid backlink profile

• Tracking and reporting on SEO performance

• Analyzing competitor SEO strategies

9. Performance Marketer

Salary: $60,000 - $140,000+

Tools: Advertising platforms (Google Ads, Facebook Ads, LinkedIn Ads), analytics platforms (Google Analytics), tracking tools

Duties:

• Creating and managing paid advertising campaigns

• Optimizing campaigns for conversions

• A/B testing ad creatives and landing pages

• Tracking and reporting on campaign performance

• Managing advertising budgets

10. Content Marketing Strategist

Salary: $60,000 - $130,000+

Tools: Content management systems (WordPress), analytics platforms (Google Analytics), social media management tools, email marketing platforms (Klaviyo, Hubspot)

Duties:

• Developing content marketing strategies

• Creating and executing content calendars

• Analyzing content performance.

• Following latest content marketing trends

11. Affiliate Marketing Manager

Salary: $50,000 - $120,000+ (plus commission)

Tools: Affiliate marketing platforms, Tracking software, Analytics platforms, Communication tools.

Duties:

• Recruiting and managing affiliates

• Developing affiliate marketing campaigns

• Tracking affiliate performance

• Analyzing affiliate marketing data

• Optimizing affiliate marketing programs

12. Email Marketing Specialist

Salary: $50,000 - $110,000+

Tools: Email marketing platforms (Mailchimp, Klaviyo, ConvertKit), CRM systems, Analytics platforms

Duties:

• Creating and managing email marketing campaigns

• Segmenting email lists

• A/B testing email creatives and subject lines

• Tracking and reporting on email campaign performance

• Automating email marketing workflows

13. Social Media Consultant

Salary: $45,000 - $100,000+

Tools: Social media platforms (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn), social media management tools (Hootsuite, Buffer), Analytics platforms

Duties:

• Developing social media strategies

• Creating and curating social media content

• Managing social media communities

• Running social media advertising campaigns

• Tracking and reporting on social media performance

Business & Finance

14. Financial Consultant

Salary: $70,000 - $150,000+ (can be significantly higher with commissions)

Tools: Financial planning software, investment research tools, CRM systems, communication tools

Duties:

• Providing financial advice to clients

• Developing short-term and long-term financial plans

• Managing investment portfolios

15. Tax & Accounting Consultant (specializing in international clients)

Salary: $60,000 - $140,000+

Tools: Accounting software (Xero, QuickBooks), tax preparation software, international tax law resources, communication tools

Duties:

• Providing tax and accounting services to international clients

• Navigating complex international tax laws and regulations

• Preparing and filing tax returns

• Advising clients on tax planning strategies

• Staying up-to-date with changes in international tax law

• Managing client relationships

16. E-commerce Business Owner

Salary: Highly variable, potential for $50,000 - $200,000+ (dependent on business success)

Tools: E-commerce platforms (Shopify, WooCommerce), dropshipping platforms (Oberlo), print-on-demand services, Amazon Seller Central, marketing tools

Duties:

• Setting up and managing online stores

• Sourcing products from vendors

• Running sales & marketing campaigns

• Managing customer service

• Fulfilling orders (or managing fulfillment partners)

• Analyzing business performance

17. Business Coach or Consultant

Salary: $60,000 - $150,000+ (highly variable, dependent on client base and rates)

Tools: CRM systems, communication tools, project management tools, presentation software, online course platforms (if offering courses)

Duties:

• Coaching clients on leadership and management skills

• Developing business strategies

• Facilitating workshops and training sessions

• Helping clients achieve their business goals

• Building a strong social network for leverage

18. Mergers & Acquisitions Consultant

Salary: $80,000 - $200,000+ (often includes bonuses and commission)

Tools: Financial modeling software, due diligence tools, legal databases, communication tools

Duties:

• Advising clients on mergers and acquisitions

• Conducting due diligence

• Valuing companies

• Negotiating deals

• Managing the M&A process

• Facilitating post-acquisition integration

Creative & Design

19. UX/UI Designer

Salary: $70,000 - $150,000+

Tools: Design tools (Figma, Sketch, Adobe XD), prototyping tools, user research tools, collaboration tools

Duties:

• Conducting user research

• Creating wireframes and prototypes

• Designing user-centered interfaces

• Conducting usability testing

• Collaborating with developers

20. Brand Identity Designer

Salary: $60,000 - $130,000+

Tools: Design software (Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop), branding strategy tools, presentation software

Duties:

• Developing brand strategies

• Creating brand logos and visual identities

• Designing brand guidelines

• Developing brand messaging

• Presenting brand concepts to clients

21. Video Editor/Motion Graphics Designer

Salary: $50,000 - $120,000+

Tools: Video editing software (Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro), motion graphics software (Adobe After Effects), animation tools, etc.

Duties:

• Editing video footage

• Creating motion graphics and animations

• Adding special effects

• Sound mixing and design

• Collaborating with creative copywriters

• Delivering high-quality video content

22. Illustrator & Digital Artist

Salary: $40,000 - $100,000+ (highly variable, dependent on niche and client base)

Tools: Digital illustration software (Adobe Illustrator, Procreate), drawing tablets, design software

Duties:

• Creating illustrations for various media

• Developing character designs

• Creating digital artwork

23. Web Designer

Salary: $50,000 - $120,000+

Tools: Design software (Figma, Sketch, Adobe XD), web development tools (HTML, CSS, JavaScript), content management systems (WordPress)

Duties:

• Designing website layouts

• Creating website mockups

• Developing website user interfaces

• Making the website responsive on different screens

• Collaborating with front-end web developers

Writing & Media

24. Technical Writer

Salary: $60,000 - $130,000+

Tools: Documentation tools, content management systems, API documentation generators, communication tools

Duties:

• Creating technical documentation

• Writing clear and accurate user manuals

• Developing API documentation

• Creating training materials

• Collaborating with engineers and product managers

25. Copywriter

Salary: $50,000 - $120,000+

Tools: Copywriting frameworks, marketing tools, CRM systems, communication tools

Duties:

• Writing copy for sales pages

• Developing email marketing sequences

• Creating pay-per-click ad copy

• Researching target audiences

26. Ghostwriter

Salary: $40,000 - $100,000+ (highly variable, dependent on project scope and experience)

Tools: Writing software, Research tools, Communication tools.

Duties:

• Writing books, articles, or scripts for clients

• Adhering to client's style and voice

• Conducting thorough research

• Meeting deadlines

• Complying with confidentiality agreements

27. Online Course Creator

Salary: Highly variable, potential for significant income based on course popularity

Tools: Course creation platforms (Teachable, Udemy, Thinkific), video recording and editing software, presentation software, marketing tools

Duties:

• Developing course curriculum

• Creating course content

• Recording and editing video lectures

• Marketing courses on social media

• Updating course content

• Responding to students’ queries

28. Podcast Producer & Editor

Salary: $40,000 - $90,000+

Tools: Audio editing software (Audacity, Adobe Audition), podcast hosting platforms, sound equipment, communication tools

Duties:

• Recording and editing podcast episodes

• Adding music and sound effects

• Managing podcast distribution

• Promoting podcasts on various platforms

• Working with podcast hosts

Other High-Paying Remote Jobs

29. Online Lawyer (Business Law, IP Law, Contracts)

Salary: $70,000 - $150,000+ (can be much higher)

Tools: Legal research databases, communication tools, document management systems, case management software

Duties:

• Providing legal advice to clients

• Drafting legal documents

• Negotiating contracts

• Representing clients in legal matters

• Staying up-to-date with changes in law

• Managing client relationships

30. Virtual CTO (Chief Technology Officer for Startups & SMEs)

Salary: $100,000 - $200,000+ (can be higher depending on experience and client portfolio)

Tools: Project management tools, communication platforms, cloud computing platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP), software development tools, cybersecurity tools

Duties:

• Developing technology strategies for startups and SMEs

• Advising clients on technology investments

• Overseeing software development projects

• Managing technology teams (remotely)

• Evaluating and recommending cybersecurity solutions

• Helping businesses scale their technology infrastructure

• Communicating technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders

FAQs

1. What does it mean to be a digital nomad?

A digital nomad is defined by their location independence. They use technology to work remotely, meaning their "office" can be a café in Bali one week and a mountain cabin in Switzerland the next.

2. How do you become a digital nomad?

The transition to a digital nomad lifestyle isn’t easy. It requires a lot of preparation. Start by identifying your marketable remote skills and researching job opportunities. Save enough funds to cover initial travel and living expenses. Find out which countries process digital nomad visas faster. Look for co-working spaces or other work-friendly locations in your target destinations.

3. What jobs can you do as a digital nomad?

Here's a list of jobs you can do as a digital nomad:

Writing & Content Creation

• Freelance Writer (articles, blog posts, website copy, ebooks)

• Content Creator (blogging, social media content, video scripts)

• Copywriter (marketing materials, ads, website copy)

• Editor/Proofreader

• Technical Writer

• Translator

• Journalist

• Ghostwriter

Web & Software Development

• Web Developer (front-end, back-end, full-stack)

• Software Engineer

• Mobile App Developer

• Web Designer (UX/UI)

• WordPress Developer

• Database Administrator

• Cybersecurity Specialist

Creative & Design

• Graphic Designer (logos, branding, marketing materials)

• Photographer

• Videographer/Video Editor

• Illustrator

• Animator

• Game Designer

Marketing & Sales

• Social Media Manager

• SEO Specialist

• Digital Marketing Manager

• Content Marketing Manager

• Email Marketing Specialist

• Affiliate Marketer

• Sales Representative (remote)

Virtual Assistance & Admin

• Virtual Assistant (general admin, scheduling, email management)

• Executive Assistant (remote)

• Customer Service Representative (remote)

• Project Manager (remote)

• Data Entry Clerk

• Transcriptionist

Education & Training

• Online Teacher/Tutor (languages, music, academic subjects)

• Online Course Creator

• Educational Consultant

Finance & Consulting

• Financial Advisor

• Business Consultant

• Accountant

• Bookkeeper

Other

• Travel Blogger/Vlogger

• Podcaster

• Voice Actor

• Online Coach (fitness, life, business)

• E-commerce Store Owner

• Dropshipper

This list is not exhaustive, but it gives a good overview of the many available options. The best job for you will depend on your skills, experience, and interests. Many digital nomads also combine multiple skills and roles to create a diverse income stream.

4. How much does a digital nomad make?

It's tricky to pin down an exact income for digital nomads, as it's a diverse group with varied skills and lifestyles. Several factors influence earning potential. Highly sought-after skills, like web development or data science, often lead to higher pay, and naturally, more experience usually translates to better rates. The industry you work in matters too – tech and finance tend to offer more lucrative opportunities.

Entry-level digital nomads with little to no work experience start by earning $20,000 - $50,000 per year. Mid-career digital nomads earn $50,000 - $100,000 per year. Those with in-demand skills and a proven specialty can earn $100,000+ per year, sometimes even more.

How you work also plays a role. Freelancers have the potential for high earnings but also deal with income fluctuations, whereas those with remote jobs might have more stable salaries. Entrepreneurs who build successful online businesses have the highest earning potential but also face the most risk.

Location can be a factor too, but not always in the way you might think. Living in a low-cost country doesn't guarantee a low income, and some nomads choose to live in expensive cities, but then they require a higher income to maintain their lifestyle. Someone earning $60,000 in Thailand might have a higher quality of life than someone earning $80,000 in London.

5. Do you pay self-employment tax as a digital nomad?

Self-employment tax is generally the equivalent of what employees pay in Social Security and Medicare taxes (or similar programs in other countries). When you're employed by a company, your employer withholds these taxes from your paycheck and also pays a matching portion. As a self-employed individual, you're responsible for paying both portions.

So, yes, you likely have self-employment tax obligations somewhere as a digital nomad, but where and how much depends entirely on your specific circumstances.

Every country has its own tax laws. Some countries have special visa programs for digital nomads with specific tax implications. Research the tax laws of the countries where you're a tax resident and where your income originates. Don't rely on general information. Seek professional tax advice to avoid penalties and legal issues down the road.