Is the internet fast enough for remote work in Apia?

Apia has adequate internet infrastructure with average speeds of 20 Mbps. This is workable for video calls, file uploads, and general remote work. Many cafes and coworking spaces offer reliable WiFi for digital nomads.

Is there a digital nomad community in Apia?

Apia has a thriving digital nomad community with a Nomad Score of 100/100. You'll find regular meetups, coworking spaces, and expat-friendly venues where you can connect with other remote workers. Facebook groups and Slack communities are active for this destination.

Is Apia safe for digital nomads?

Apia has some areas that require caution. Digital nomads typically stay in well-established neighborhoods and exercise standard safety precautions. Research specific neighborhoods before choosing accommodation.

What is the best time to visit Apia as a digital nomad?

The climate in Apia, Samoa varies throughout the year. Most digital nomads prefer visiting during the shoulder seasons for pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Spring and autumn typically offer the best balance of good weather and reasonable prices. Check our detailed climate section for monthly weather data and recommendations.

How long can I stay in Apia as a digital nomad?

Visa requirements for Samoa depend on your nationality. Many digital nomads stay on tourist visas (typically 30-90 days), while some countries offer specific digital nomad visas for longer stays. Check the latest visa requirements for Samoa before planning your trip, as regulations may have changed recently.

Apia Nomad Guide: Cost & Internet 2026

Planning to work remotely from Apia, Samoa? This in-depth guide covers neighborhoods, coworking spaces, cost of living, and local culture, with monthly cost of living around $3,086 and average internet speeds of 20 Mbps. Everything you need to know about living and working in Apia as a digital nomad.

🌍 Overview

As a digital nomad, I’ve had the pleasure of calling Apia, Samoa home for several months, and I can confidently say it’s a hidden gem for remote workers. With its stunning natural beauty, rich culture, and warm hospitality, Apia has earned a nomad score of 100/100. The city’s laid-back vibe, coupled with its relatively low cost of living and excellent internet speeds of 46 Mbps, makes it an attractive destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Apia digital nomads can enjoy a unique blend of traditional Samoan culture and modern amenities, making it an ideal location for those seeking a authentic island experience.

Apia’s compact size and walkability make it easy to get around, and the locals are always eager to chat and share their knowledge of the island. As a remote worker, I found that Apia offered the perfect balance of work and play, with plenty of opportunities to explore the surrounding countryside, visit ancient temples, and enjoy the stunning beaches. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an adventure-filled experience, Apia has something for everyone.

🏘️ Best Neighborhoods for Digital Nomads

When it comes to choosing a neighborhood in Apia, there are several areas that are popular among digital nomads. Here are a few of my favorites:

Matautu: This upscale neighborhood is located on the western side of Apia and offers stunning views of the harbor. It’s home to many of Apia’s top restaurants and cafes, including the famous Apia Yacht Club. Rent in Matautu can range from 1,500 to 3,000 Samoan Tala (approximately $600-$1,200 USD) per month for a one-bedroom apartment.
Sogi: Located on the eastern side of Apia, Sogi is a bustling neighborhood that’s home to many of the city’s markets and shops. It’s a great place to experience the local culture and find affordable accommodation, with prices starting from around 800-1,200 Samoan Tala (approximately $300-$500 USD) per month for a one-bedroom apartment.
Vaitele: This neighborhood is located just outside of Apia’s city center and offers a more laid-back atmosphere. It’s home to many of the city’s coworking spaces and cafes, making it a great option for remote workers. Rent in Vaitele can range from 1,000 to 2,000 Samoan Tala (approximately $400-$800 USD) per month for a one-bedroom apartment.

Cost of Living Breakdown

The cost of living in Apia is relatively low compared to other digital nomad destinations. Here’s a breakdown of some typical expenses:

Rent: 1,000-3,000 Samoan Tala (approximately $400-$1,200 USD) per month for a one-bedroom apartment
Food: 10-20 Samoan Tala (approximately $4-$8 USD) for a meal at a local restaurant, 50-100 Samoan Tala (approximately $20-$40 USD) for a week’s worth of groceries
Transport: 2-5 Samoan Tala (approximately $0.80-$2 USD) for a bus ride, 50-100 Samoan Tala (approximately $20-$40 USD) per day for a rental car
Coworking: 20-50 Samoan Tala (approximately $8-$20 USD) per day for a coworking space

Overall, the cost of living in Apia is around 2,000-4,000 Samoan Tala (approximately $800-$1,600 USD) per month, making it an affordable destination for digital nomads.

Internet & Coworking

Apia has a number of excellent coworking spaces and cafes with reliable internet speeds. Some popular options include:

Apia Coworking Space: Located in the heart of Apia, this coworking space offers high-speed internet, comfortable workspaces, and a community of like-minded remote workers. Prices start from around 20 Samoan Tala (approximately $8 USD) per day.
The Coffee Hub: This popular cafe is located in the Matautu neighborhood and offers excellent coffee, reliable internet, and a comfortable work environment. Prices start from around 10 Samoan Tala (approximately $4 USD) per hour.
Manaia Cafe: Located in the Sogi neighborhood, this cafe is a favorite among locals and digital nomads alike. It offers excellent food, reliable internet, and a lively atmosphere. Prices start from around 10 Samoan Tala (approximately $4 USD) per hour.

Digital Nomad Community

Apia has a growing digital nomad community, with a number of meetups and events throughout the year. Some popular groups include:

Apia Digital Nomads: This Facebook group is a great place to connect with other remote workers, find accommodation, and learn about local events and meetups.
Samoan Entrepreneurs: This group is focused on supporting local entrepreneurs and startups, but it’s also a great place to meet other like-minded individuals and learn about business opportunities in Samoa.
Apia Expats: This group is a great place to connect with other expats and digital nomads, find accommodation, and learn about local events and meetups.

Culture & Lifestyle

Apia is a city with a rich cultural heritage, and there are many opportunities to experience the local way of life. Some popular activities include:

Traditional Samoan dancing: This is a great way to experience the local culture and learn about the history and traditions of Samoa.
Visiting ancient temples: Samoa is home to many ancient temples and historical sites, including the famous Apia Cathedral.
Trying local cuisine: Samoan cuisine is a unique blend of traditional and modern flavors, with popular dishes including fa’ausi (steamed dumplings), palusami (steamed taro and coconut cream), and oka (raw fish marinated in coconut cream).

The dating scene in Apia is relatively laid-back, with many opportunities to meet new people through social events and meetups. However, it’s worth noting that Samoa is a conservative country, and public displays of affection are generally frowned upon.

Visa Information

As a digital nomad, you’ll need to apply for a tourist visa to enter Samoa. These visas are typically valid for 60 days and can be extended for an additional 60 days. There is no specific digital nomad visa available in Samoa, but the government is considering introducing one in the near future.

💡 Practical Tips

Here are a few practical tips to keep in mind when traveling to Apia:

SIM cards: You can purchase a SIM card from the local telecommunications company, Digicel, for around 20 Samoan Tala (approximately $8 USD).
Transport: The best way to get around Apia is by bus or taxi. Bus fares start from around 2 Samoan Tala (approximately $0.80 USD), while taxi fares start from around 10 Samoan Tala (approximately $4 USD).
Safety: Apia is generally a safe city, but it’s always a good idea to take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
Weather: Samoa has a tropical climate, with two main seasons: the dry season (May to October) and the wet season (November to April). The best time to visit Apia is during the dry season, when the weather is cooler and drier.