12 best countries for nomadic house sitters

Whether it’s bustling inner cities, tropical expat hotspots, or mountainous retreats that call your name, the possibilities are never-ending for remote workers. To help you carve out your next stint of nomadic travel, we’re exploring some of the best countries for nomadic house sitters below. We’ll look at internet reliability, co-working opportunities, transport links, cost of living, climate, safety and top things to consider when choosing a destination.

Key things to consider for nomadic house sitters:

• Number of house and pet sitting opportunities. Start by looking at where long term sits are available in locations that’ll work for your lifestyle.
• Internet speed. Most countries will have reliable internet in key cities and towns, but remember that rural areas often rely on older systems, and can be affected by extreme weather.
• Local shops and amenities. Consider whether the local area has everything you need, and how you might travel to local spots.
• Co-working spaces. Look at the local co-working offices available to help you connect with locals and expats.
• Remote work setup. For your working from home days, make sure the stay has somewhere you can sit comfortably and concentrate with minimal distractions.
• Local meet-ups and community events. Consider looking into events and meet-ups that align with your hobbies to help you connect with locals.
• Transport connections. Look into local transport networks, and consider how you’ll travel if you’d prefer not to drive.
• Cost of living. While house sitting will help you save on accommodation, factor in food and co-working costs, plus anything you’ll need to spend on stays between sits.
• Climate: Some places have extreme weather that you might not be used to, e.g. monsoon season in Southeast Asia, so be sure to find out about the seasons in the country (and microclimate) you’re staying in, and make sure you’re prepared for it.

United Kingdom

The United Kingdom is one of the best countries to find long term house sitting opportunities if you want an almost never-ending supply of listings to choose from. It’s also one of the best digital nomad countries with fast internet. So if two things are for sure about nomad house sitting in the UK, it’s that you’ll likely be rewarded with a good internet speed (but always check first!), and a good number of sits to choose from.

“In 2025 I was a nomadic pet sitter in the UK with TrustedHousesitters. I did 24 consecutive sits, and loved being able to explore England, while meeting adorable pets, and experiencing life like a true local. The savings I made were a huge bonus, and I met so many new friends along the way!” - Tiff, pet sitter

What to consider about the UK when long term house sitting:

• Internet reliability: High
• Co-working opportunities: Many, especially in towns and cities. Many cafes will also allow remote workers if you’re buying drinks and/or food.
• Expat hotspots: London, Brighton, Edinburgh, Manchester, Bristol
• Transport: Well-connected. The UK is complete with a strong national rail, flight and bus network.
• Cost of living: High. In comparison to other popular countries for nomads, the cost of food, hotels for between sits, and general amenities is high.
• Climate: Temperate. While the UK experiences the seasons, extreme weather is rare.
• Safety: Our 2026 study revealed that London was in the top 10 best destinations for solo female travelers.

Spain

Spain is one of the best countries for nomadic house sitters because of its varied terrain, fast internet speed, and modest cost of living. Whether it’s bustling cities like Barcelona and Madrid, smaller cities like San Sebastián and Bilbao, or stunning countryside or beach retreats on the Canary Islands, it really does have it all. And according to Spain’s official tourism website, the internet speed is one of the best in Europe.

What to consider about Spain when long term house sitting:

• Internet reliability: High
• Co-working opportunities: Many. Spain’s towns and cities are filled with accessible co-working spaces.
• Expat hotspots: Madrid, Barcelona, Alicante
• Transport: Well connected. Spain has a high-speed, regional rail system, along with domestic flights and local transit systems such as the metro and trams.
• Cost of living: Moderate
• Climate: Northern Spain is perfect for anyone who prefers a temperate climate, while the rest of the country is generally more suited to sun worshippers.
• Safety: Our 2026study revealed that Madrid and Barcelona were in the top 20 best destinations for solo female travelers.

Singapore

If cleanliness, safety and internet speed are at the top of your priority list when house sitting abroad, search for house sits in Singapore immediately! The “Garden City” is a hub for professionals, expats, and house sitters alike, and is home to a vibrant food culture. Don’t miss the hawker centers (low-cost food halls typical in this part of the world) for some of the best Southeast and South Asian food you’ve ever tasted. 

What to consider about Singapore when long term house sitting:

• Internet reliability: State of the art. Singapore has one of the fastest residential internet speeds in the world.
• Co-working opportunities: Many. Singapore is a thriving hub of young professionals. Check out JustCo or TheWorkProject to find a nearby co-working space.
• Expat hotspots: Residential areas such as Holland Village, Tiong Bahru, and Katong.
• Transport: World class. Mass Rapid Transit (MRT), local buses, taxi, Johor Bahru–Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS).
• Cost of living: High. While the gaps between sits will be expensive, house sitting is an affordable way to explore the city like a local. Plus, you’ll never need to spend too much on food, with Singapore’s deliberately-affordable hawker centers providing nourishing food for low prices.
• Climate: Tropical. Expect humidity, scorching temperatures, sun, and brief but strong downpours.
• Safety: Our 2026 study revealed that Singapore is the best global solo travel destination for women.

Netherlands

If you’re looking for a country to house sit where there are lots of English speakers, expats, and walkable cities, the Netherlands will be your next stop. And if you’re after remote pet sitting opportunities with WiFi that goes beyond average, you can’t go wrong in the Netherlands.

What to consider about the Netherlands when long term house sitting:

• Internet reliability: High. The average download speed is around 129 Mbps (megabits per second). 
• Co-working opportunities: Many. From micro co-working spaces in residential areas to national networks with organized events and community spaces, the Netherlands is well-equipped to accommodate the remote worker.
• Expat hotspots: Utrecht, Haarlem, Amsterdam, Rotterdam
• Transport: Well-connected. A national and international rail network, bike rental, metro, trams, and buses.
• Cost of living: High. House sitting remains an affordable way to explore the Netherlands like a local, without paying the high costs associated with rentals.
• Climate: Maritime temperate, a similar climate to the UK.
• Safety: Our 2026 study revealed that Amsterdam is in the top 10 best global solo travel destinations for women.

Thailand

Whether it’s a world-class, legendary food scene, bustling street markets, or affordable spa treatments that don’t scrimp on luxury, Thailand will be your new favorite country for remote working. Find out why below.

What to consider about Thailand when long term house sitting:

• Internet reliability: Good. City hubs, well-populated islands, and well-connected towns offer high-speed internet connectivity, but remote locations might be less reliable.
• Co-working opportunities: Many. Major cities and even some smaller towns are complete with co-working spaces of varying quality. Like any capital city, Bangkok is filled with places to remote work like Hubble, while Chiang Mai is an expat hub with creative, modern co-working spaces like Punspace and Yellow.
• Expat hotspots: Chiang Mai, Bangkok
• Transport: Well-connected. Find urban rail networks, public buses, ferries, coaches, and domestic flights.
• Cost of living: Low. Thailand remains a staple for budget travelers and digital nomads, offering low-cost food options and local amenities at a fraction of the cost to European, Australian and US alternatives.
• Climate: Tropical. Expect scorching summers and heavy rainfall during monsoon season, which runs May through October, and sometimes November.
• Air quality: Depends where you go! Chiang Mai’s air quality is considered “good”, while Bangkok’s is “moderate”.
• Safety: Our 2026 study revealed that Bangkok is in the top 10 best global solo travel destinations for women.

Mexico

While Mexico offers a whole other food culture and local environment to its bordering neighbor, its proximity to US time zones make it a super popular country for digital nomads looking for house sitting opportunities. And with contrasting microclimates where high-altitude tundras are a bus ride away from tropical rainforests, house sitters can easily avoid boredom by moving around.

What to consider about Mexico when long term house sitting:

• Internet reliability: High. Fiber optic connection is the standard in cities and major towns, while storm season (between June and November) is known for causing power outages. 
• Co-working opportunities: Cities and major towns have recently improved local infrastructure for co-working, with dedicated spaces emerging in Mexico City, Oaxaca, and Playa del Carmen.
• Expat hotspots: San Miguel de Allende, Lake Chapala, Mexico City
• Transport: Good. National train services, interconnected city rail networks, cable cars, taxi providers, long distance buses.
• Cost of living: Low. Overall, living in Mexico is 36.7% cheaper than the US - this incorporates rent, which makes house sitting a super affordable option, without compromising on location.
• Climate: Varied. The rainy season falls between May and October, while the hot season is between April and September. High-altitude areas experience ‘eternal spring’.
• Safety: Varied. Crime rates are lower in some areas, with higher risk locations in select neighborhoods, often after dark. Research the areas you’re looking to stay, and keep up to date on local news.

Vietnam

Whether it’s the ancient architecture or world-famous cafe culture that calls your name, Vietnam is a budget-friendly favorite for digital nomads the world over. Its diverse landscape varies from cooler highlands, to humid, eclectic cities and breathtaking coastlines, calling long term travelers who love variety.

What to consider about Vietnam when long term house sitting:

• Internet reliability: Highly reliable. Vietnam’s internet speeds are continuously growing, with strong connection in key towns, cities, and populated areas.
• Co-working opportunities: Clustered. Densely populated, modernized areas including Hi Chi Minh City, Hanoi, Da Nang and Hội An offer dedicated co-working spaces.
• Expat hotspots: Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang
• Transport: Motorbike rentals, sleeper buses, international trains, taxi services (Grab)
• Cost of living: Very low. A good meal in Vietnam can cost as little as $2, and the average monthly transport pass comes to less than $9.
• Climate: Regionalized. Northern Vietnam has four distinct seasons, ranging from cool winters to scorching hot summers, and monsoon season. Central and Southern Vietnam see a dry and a wet season, with more moderate temperatures only dropping to roughly 70°F (21°C).
• Safety: Varied. Petty theft is common in larger cities such as Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, however our 2026 study revealed that Ho Chi Minh City is in the top 20 best global solo travel destinations for women.

Costa Rica

Costa Rica sits firmly as one of the expat capitals of the world, attracting full time nomads across its varied landscape. Whether it’s the surf beaches, remote jungles containing incredible biodiversity, or the pura vida lifestyle, it’s certainly a country to consider if you’re thinking about long term house sitting. Hear from digital nomads and pet sitters - Alex and Ryan - on their experiences as full time nomads in Central and South America.

• Internet reliability: Varied. Fixed broadband connections in major cities, but rural areas are less reliable.
• Co-working opportunities: Many in San José. Varied along the coastline, with some independent eco-co-working spots that merge workspaces with beach or jungle surroundings.
• Expat hotspots: Central Valley, Guancaste, Puerto Viejo
• Transport: Varied. Transport in Costa Rica involves public buses, taxis and rideshares. It’s highly recommended to rent a 4x4 vehicle to navigate rural tracks.
• Cost of living: High in comparison to other countries in Central America, with estimated monthly food costing $500–$750 if cooking at home.
• Climate: Two distinct seasons: dry and wet. The dry season (December through April) will see heavier tourist crowds, while the wet season (May through November) brings sunny mornings and short, heavy downpours in the afternoons and evenings. The Caribbean Coast microclimate sees tropical weather year-round, with frequent rainfall, high temperatures, and humidity.
• Safety: Varied. It’s advised that travelers should be vigilant in built-up areas due to petty theft, and should avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas at night.

Indonesia (Bali)

Whether it’s Bali’s strong surf communities, its year-round warm weather, or established expat networks, the island remains one of the most popular places for long term house sitters and nomad communities. Take a look below to find out why.

What to consider about Bali when long term house sitting:

• Internet reliability: Location-dependent. Strong fixed broadband internet in built-up areas, while rural setups are vulnerable to connectivity problems during intense rainfall.
• Co-working opportunities: Many. Bali is packed with expats and long term travelers who make use of community-driven co-working spaces in hubs like Ubud, Canggu, and Uluwatu.
• Expat hotspots: Canggu (surfer hot spot), Ubud (wellness enthusiasts), Uluwatu (luxury beaches, loved by surfers), Seminyak (known for its “Bali chic” beach clubs).
• Transport: Scooter-centric. If you don’t feel like renting a bike, opt for a taxi service like Gojek or Grab.
• Cost of living: Varied. The cost of eating out is on the rise in populated expat hubs like Canggu, Seminyak, and Uluwatu, while more rural spots remain more affordable.
• Climate: Tropical. Bali’s climate is split into two seasons: dry (April through October), and wet (November through March).
• Safety: Travelers are warned about petty theft from motorbikes and crowded nightlife areas. Scooter accidents are common.

“For us, house sitting is our way of life. We travel full-time and house sitting gives us a home base where we can have the company of pets, stability to work on our online business, and still be able to balance work and travel with our personal life.” - Marco and Fran pet sitters

Australia

Australia holds steady as one of the world’s most popular long-stay pet sitting options for remote workers and digital nomads alike. Whether it’s the bustling crowds of its cosmopolitan cities, or remote farm stays further inland that are calling your name, the house sitting opportunities in Australia are almost endless. 

What to consider about Australia when long term house sitting:

• Internet reliability: Varied. Cities, towns and populated suburbs rely on high-speed, fixed broadband. Connection is often slower in outback areas due to older network systems.
• Co-working opportunities: Major cities, towns and inner city suburbs are filled with sophisticated co-working spaces, including Hub Australia and Spaces.
• Expat hotspots: Widespread. Depending on interests and hobbies, expats are found across Australia, including Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, Gold Coast, Byron Bay, Bondi, and Manly.
• Transport: Connected within cities, challenging regionally. Australia’s major cities are well-connected by buses and trains, but hiring a vehicle is recommended if you’re traveling long distances between regions.
• Cost of living: Very high. Groceries, dining out, and public transportation are expensive in Australia. House sitting helps long term travelers to cut accommodation costs significantly.
• Climate: Varied across the country. Northern Australia experiences a hot, humid season, and a wet season, while the East and South see four distinct seasons that vary from hot summers to cool, wet winters.
• Safety: Very safe - our 2026 study revealed that Sydney is in the top 20 best global solo travel destinations for women. The main threats to locals and visitors are environmental, with bushfire threats at their peak during the summer.

Portugal

Whether it’s the rugged Vicentina Coast, charming Schist villages, or the ease of wider European travel, Portugal is an emerging destination for expats and long term travelers.

What to consider about Portugal when long term house sitting:

• Internet reliability: Advanced in cities and well-populated towns, but can be affected by the weather in rural areas where older systems are in place.
• Co-working opportunities: Many. LACS, Second Home, and Avila Spaces in Lisbon and Porto. In Ponto do Sol, Madeira, a regional government-backed project offers a free, dedicated co-working space and year-round events. 
• Expat hotspots: Lisbon and Porto for digital nomads, tech startups, and creatives, The Algarve for expats living at a slower pace, and Ericeira for surf enthusiasts.
• Transport: Well connected. Local buses and trains keep cities connected, while international rail connects the north and south. Car rentals are recommended if exploring rural areas.
• Cost of living: Moderate. A meal at an inexpensive restaurant will cost diners an average of €12.00 ($13.98 USD), while the average monthly public transport pass is €40 ($46.59 USD). House sitting remains a popular way to cut costs on rent, which takes up almost 30% of the average monthly spend for Portugal residents.
• Climate: Typical Mediterranean. Hot, dry summers and mild winters. Northwest and Central Portugal experiences cooler, wetter winters than the south.
• Safety: Portugal is ranked number 7 on the Global Peace Index. Travelers are often warned to stay vigilant in public areas due to pickpockets.

United States

The US is one the most popular countries in the world for long-term house sitters. Its size means that there is a climate and vibe for almost any traveler. With the mountainous Pacific Northwest to off-grid desert stays in the Southwest, and long term city stays in NYC, there really is something for everyone. 

For hobby farms and rural retreats, internet connectivity, transport links and accessibility to co-working spaces remains varied, but upcoming. 

And a fun fact if you’re thinking about staying in NYC, our 2026 study found that it’s the second best destination for solo female travelers.

Pro tip for digital nomads

As a digital nomad, you’ve got the gift of freedom - you can travel almost anywhere, and your job follows you around. But as we’ve explored, many of the countries popular with digital nomads come at a price. 

To avoid costly rentals, our top tip is to sign up to a reliable house sitting platform with a robust review system, so that you can travel with purpose, connect with locals, and never second-guess where to stay.

At TrustedHousesitters, we’re a global community that connects hosts with sitters in more than 180 countries around the world. Hosts open up their home, and in return, sitters care for the pets and place as if they were their own. Click below to learn more about how it works.

Useful resources

• Study: The best female solo travel destinations
• The Nomad Almanac: Lev and Mia's story
• Why house sitting is perfect for remote workers - Marco and Fran’s story
• How pet sitting benefits the remote working experience

Join the conversation

Want to hear what our members have to say about long term house sitting? Check out the conversations on our Community Forum below.

• Tips for long term pet sits
• Rough costs of house and pet sitting as a long term lifestyle
• Did you always plan to live a nomadic lifestyle?
• Filling the gaps for nomads that go from sit to sit

Sources: 

Our information for this piece has been sourced from several reliable sites and organizations, including:

• Spain’s official tourism website
• Airband
• JustCo
• The Work Project
• The Dutch Review
• Nomads
• International Living
• Newland Chase
• Western Union
• Vietnam Plus
• Numbeo (Vietnam)
• A Little Adrift
• Numbeo (Portugal)
• Vision of Humanity