Living in Riga, Latvia. Neighborhoods, coworking, and what to expect.
Discover Riga, Latvia, with monthly cost of living around $2,077 and average internet speeds of 132 Mbps, one of the world's emerging destinations for digital nomads. This complete guide provides insider tips, neighborhood insights, and practical information to help you make the most of your time in Riga.
As a digital nomad who has spent several months living and working in Riga, Latvia, I can confidently say that this city is a hidden gem for remote workers. Riga digital nomads love the city’s unique blend of Soviet-era architecture, stunning Art Nouveau buildings, and a thriving cultural scene. With a population of 742,572, Riga is large enough to offer a wide range of amenities and activities, yet small enough to feel welcoming and accessible. The city’s safety index of 6249/100 and low cost of living (a one-bedroom apartment costs around $415 per month) make it an attractive destination for digital nomads on a budget. As a Riga digital nomad, you’ll find that the city’s laid-back atmosphere and stunning natural surroundings make it an ideal place to work, relax, and explore.
When it comes to choosing a neighborhood to live in Riga, digital nomads have a range of options to suit different tastes and budgets. Here are three of my favorite neighborhoods:
The cost of living in Riga is relatively low compared to other European cities. Here’s a breakdown of typical expenses for digital nomads:
Overall, the cost of living in Riga is around 30-50% lower than in Western European cities, making it an attractive destination for digital nomads on a budget.
Riga has a well-developed internet infrastructure, with average speeds of 48 Mbps. There are several coworking spaces and cafes with good Wi-Fi, including:
Riga has a growing digital nomad community, with several meetups and events for remote workers. Some popular groups include:
Riga has a rich cultural scene, with a mix of traditional Latvian culture and modern influences. Some popular activities include:
Dating in Riga can be a bit challenging, especially for non-Latvian speakers. However, many locals speak English, and there are several dating apps and websites popular among expats and digital nomads.
As a digital nomad, you’ll need to obtain a visa to stay in Latvia for an extended period. The most common type of visa is the Schengen visa, which allows you to stay in the country for up to 90 days. For longer stays, you can apply for a residence permit, which requires proof of income, health insurance, and a rental agreement. There is no specific digital nomad visa available in Latvia, but the country is considering introducing one in the near future.
Here are some practical tips for digital nomads living in Riga:
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