Digital Nomadism in Europe: A Scoping Review of Prevalence, Spatial Patterns, and Policy Implications
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47941/ijhss.3661Keywords:
Europe Digital Nomads, Remote Work, Coworking Spaces, Urban Transformation, Lifestyle Mobility, Scoping ReviewAbstract
Purpose: To examine the prevalence, geographical distribution and key determinants of digital nomadism across Europe in order to clarify its socio-economic implications.
Methodology: This study adopts a scoping review methodology using PRISMA Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) guidelines to systematically map the extent, nature, and characteristics of research on digital nomadism in Europe, highlighting prevalence patterns, demographic and socio-economic profiles, motivations, and urban and economic implications.
Findings: Final synthesis show that 12 studies published between 2016 and 2024 were included from major electronic databases and relevant grey literature. Findings indicate that digital nomads are concentrated in European cities like Portugal, Malta, Spain and the Netherlands that offer robust digital infrastructure, international accessibility, and high quality of life, with Southern European destinations increasingly positioning themselves as attractive hubs. Motivations for adopting a digital nomad lifestyle centre around autonomy, flexibility, and the integration of work and leisure, while coworking spaces and digital platforms facilitate sustained mobility and professional networking. Potential challenges to digital nomadism identified by not limited to housing pressures, urban transformation, and socio-economic inequalities in host destinations
Unique Contribution of Theory, Practice and Policy: Synthesising interdisciplinary evidence, this study highlights gaps in empirical understanding, particularly regarding long-term socio-economic impacts and regional variations across Europe. The findings provide a foundation for policymakers, urban planners, and scholars to develop strategies that support sustainable digital nomad mobility while maximising benefits for local communities.
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