Best Places for Digital Nomads to Live in Jordan
Jordan, a country rich in history and natural beauty, has become an increasingly popular destination for digital nomads seeking a new and exciting base for their remote work lifestyle. With its warm climate, affordable cost of living, and diverse cultural attractions, Jordan offers a unique blend of adventure and productivity for those looking to travel and work at the same time. Here are ten cities and towns in Jordan that are sure to capture the attention of digital nomads:
Amman
As the capital city and economic hub of Jordan, Amman offers digital nomads a wide range of amenities and opportunities. With a vibrant nightlife scene, numerous cafes and coworking spaces, and easy access to both local and international travel, Amman is an ideal choice for those looking to make the most of their digital nomad experience. The Amman Citadel and Roman Theater are must-visit cultural attractions, while Jabal Amman and Abdoun offer safe and central neighborhoods for furnished apartment rentals.
Cost of Living: A nice furnished apartment in a safe and central neighborhood can be rented for around JOD 500-800 (approximately USD 700-1100) per month. A week's worth of groceries for one person costs around JOD 50-70 (approximately USD 70-100). Dining out for dinner at a moderate restaurant with a drink will set you back around JOD 15-20 (approximately USD 20-30).
Nomad Tip: Be sure to check out the King Abdullah Mosque, a stunning architectural masterpiece that is open to non-Muslim visitors. The mosque offers guided tours that provide insights into Islamic culture and history.
Where to Stay & Eat: The neighborhoods of Jabal Amman and Abdoun offer a range of furnished rental options, from apartments to houses. For dining, try Al Quds Arabi for traditional Jordanian dishes, or Habibah for Middle Eastern fusion cuisine.
Aqaba
Located on the Red Sea coast, Aqaba is a popular destination for digital nomads seeking a sunny and relaxed work environment. With its crystal-clear waters, world-class diving sites, and numerous water sports opportunities, Aqaba offers an ideal balance of work and play. The ancient city of Petra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is just a short drive away.
Cost of Living: A nice furnished apartment in a safe and central neighborhood can be rented for around JOD 400-600 (approximately USD 560-860) per month. A week's worth of groceries for one person costs around JOD 40-60 (approximately USD 56-86). Dining out for dinner at a moderate restaurant with a drink will set you back around JOD 15-20 (approximately USD 20-30).
Nomad Tip: Don't miss out on a day trip to Wadi Rum, a breathtaking desert landscape with towering sand dunes and ancient rock formations. Take a camel ride, go hiking, or simply enjoy the stunning views.
Where to Stay & Eat: The neighborhoods of Aqaba City and Tala Bay offer a range of furnished rental options, from apartments to villas. For dining, try Al Majlis for traditional Jordanian dishes, or The Lemon for Mediterranean fusion cuisine.
Madaba
Located just a short distance from Amman, Madaba is a charming town with a rich history and a laid-back atmosphere. Known for its mosaics, Madaba is home to several important archaeological sites, including the famous Madaba Map, which dates back to the Byzantine era. The town offers a peaceful and affordable alternative to the bustling city life of Amman.
Cost of Living: A nice furnished apartment in a safe and central neighborhood can be rented for around JOD 300-500 (approximately USD 420-700) per month. A week's worth of groceries for one person costs around JOD 30-50 (approximately USD 42-70). Dining out for dinner at a moderate restaurant with a drink will set you back around JOD 10-15 (approximately USD 14-21).
Nomad Tip: Take a stroll through the Madaba Archaeological Park, which includes several important Byzantine and Umayyad sites. Be sure to check out the Church of St. George, which is home to the famous Madaba Map, a mosaic map of the Holy Land.
Where to Stay & Eat: The neighborhoods of Madaba City and Haret Shem'an offer a range of furnished rental options, from apartments to houses. For dining, try Hasan for traditional Jordanian dishes, or Al Ajloun for Middle Eastern fusion cuisine.
Petra
One of Jordan's most famous attractions, Petra is a must-visit destination for digital nomads seeking adventure and inspiration. With its stunning red sandstone architecture, ancient tombs, and narrow canyons, Petra offers a unique and awe-inspiring work environment. The town offers a range of accommodations, from budget-friendly options to luxury resorts.
Cost of Living: A nice furnished apartment in a safe and central neighborhood can be rented for around JOD 500-800 (approximately USD 700-1100) per month. A week's worth of groceries for one person costs around JOD 50-70 (approximately USD 70-100). Dining out for dinner at a moderate restaurant with a drink will set you back around JOD 20-30 (approximately USD 28-42).
Nomad Tip: Spend a day exploring the ancient city of Petra, but be sure to take a hike to the High Place of Sacrifice for breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Where to Stay & Eat: The neighborhoods of Wadi Musa and Al-Beidah offer a range of furnished rental options, from apartments to guesthouses. For dining, try Al Qasr Al Khaleej for traditional Jordanian dishes, or Petra Kitchen for Middle Eastern fusion cuisine.
Irbid
Located in the northern part of Jordan, Irbid is a bustling university town with a rich cultural heritage and a vibrant atmosphere. With its many cafes, libraries, and coworking spaces, Irbid offers digital nomads an ideal work environment. The town is also home to several important archaeological sites, including the ancient city of Jerash.
Cost of Living: A nice furnished apartment in a safe and central neighborhood can be rented for around JOD 350-600 (approximately USD 500-860) per month. A week's worth of groceries for one person costs around JOD 30-50 (approximately USD 42-70). Dining out for dinner at a moderate restaurant with a drink will set you back around JOD 10-15 (approximately USD 14-21).
Nomad Tip: Take a day trip to the ancient city of Jerash, which is famous for its well-preserved Roman ruins and impressive columns.
Where to Stay & Eat: The neighborhoods of Irbid City and Al-Rasheed offer a range of furnished rental options, from apartments to houses. For dining, try Al Hindi for traditional Jordanian dishes, or Al Farouq for Middle Eastern fusion cuisine.
Ma'in
Located in the central part of Jordan, Ma'in is a hot springs resort town that offers digital nomads a unique and relaxing work environment. With its warm waters, stunning landscapes, and natural mineral baths, Ma'in is the perfect place to unwind and recharge. The town also offers several hiking trails and adventure sports opportunities.
Cost of Living: A nice furnished apartment in a safe and central neighborhood can be rented for around JOD 400-600 (approximately USD 560-860) per month. A week's worth of groceries for one person costs around JOD 40-60 (approximately USD 56-86). Dining out for dinner at a moderate restaurant with a drink will set you back around JOD 20-30 (approximately USD 28-42).
Nomad Tip: Take a dip in the hot springs and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and desert landscapes.
Where to Stay & Eat: The town of Ma'in offers several accommodation options, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury resorts. For dining, try Al Aqeeq for traditional Jordanian dishes, or Al Ma'in for Middle Eastern fusion cuisine.
Ajloun
Located in the northwestern part of Jordan, Ajloun is a picturesque town that offers digital nomads a peaceful and affordable work environment. With its stunning castle ruins, beautiful landscapes, and friendly locals, Ajlun is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. The town also offers several hiking trails and adventure sports opportunities.
Cost of Living: A nice furnished apartment in a safe and central neighborhood can be rented for around JOD 250-400 (approximately USD 350-560) per month. A week's worth of groceries for one person costs around JOD 25-40 (approximately USD 35-56). Dining out for dinner at a moderate restaurant with a drink will set you back around JOD 10-15 (approximately USD 14-21).
Nomad Tip: Take a hike up to the Ajloun Castle for breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside and the Jordan Valley.
Where to Stay & Eat: The town of Ajloun offers several accommodation options, from budget-friendly guesthouses to mid-range hotels. For dining, try Al Ajloun for traditional Jordanian dishes, or Al Faisal for Middle Eastern fusion cuisine.
Zarqa
Located just east of Amman, Zarqa is a bustling industrial city that offers digital nomads an affordable and convenient work environment. With its numerous cafes, libraries, and coworking spaces, Zarqa is an ideal choice for those seeking a productive and budget-friendly work environment. The city also offers several cultural attractions, including the Zarqa Museum and the King Talal Dam.
Cost of Living: A nice furnished apartment in a safe and central neighborhood can be rented for around JOD 300-500 (approximately USD 420-700) per month. A week's worth of groceries for one person costs around JOD 30-50 (approximately USD 42-70). Dining out for dinner at a moderate restaurant with a drink will set you back around JOD 10-15 (approximately USD 14-21).
Nomad Tip: Take a day trip to the King Talal Dam, which offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside and opportunities for hiking and picnicking.
Where to Stay & Eat: The neighborhoods of Zarqa City and Al-Basheir offer a range of furnished rental options, from apartments to houses. For dining, try Al Shamah for traditional Jordanian dishes, or Al Jazira for Middle Eastern fusion cuisine.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and serves as Co-President of Expat Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
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