Photo courtesy of VN Express

Da Nang, Vietnam, is increasingly becoming a top choice for digital nomads, challenging popular hubs like Chiang Mai and Bali. Despite lacking a dedicated remote worker visa, the city attracts international professionals with its appealing mix of livability, affordable costs, and a robust tourism framework, supported by Vietnam’s three-month e-visa policy.

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In recent years, Da Nang has risen to prominence as a prime destination. The New York Times, in 2019, referred to it as the "Miami of Vietnam" and listed it among 52 must-visit places. The city boasts a 32-km coastline, luxury resorts, and vibrant nightlife. Continued developments, including upscale hotels and expanded visa exemptions, are enhancing its attractiveness to tourists and remote workers alike.

Efforts to court digital nomads are gaining momentum. March's Da Nang Nomad Fest highlighted the city's objectives, and local reports show a steady increase in the remote workforce amid global shifts to flexible work arrangements. While exact numbers are unavailable, the impact on the property market is evident, with rental prices in central areas climbing significantly.

Locals express varied opinions on the influx. Hana Nguyen, owner of a city co-working space, notes job creation for Vietnamese workers and a boost in demand for local services due to the digital nomad presence. Daniel Schlagwein from Chulalongkorn University highlights the preference for nomads over short-term tourists, noting their longer stays and integrated lifestyles as beneficial to the local economy.

However, the trend is not without challenges. Da Nang faces rising living costs, especially in housing, which are pressing concerns for residents. As the city continues to leverage the remote work wave, balancing growth with affordability and quality of life remains a pivotal challenge.

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now · VN Express · 07 Mar 2026

Da Nang is already ruined, everything in the tourist area An Thượng is now three times the price it was just two years ago and there's overcrowding!