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Kabul vs Shymkent – Digital Nomad Guide

Trying to decide between Kabul, Afghanistan and Shymkent, Kazakhstan? Here's a detailed comparison to help digital nomads and remote workers make an informed choice.

💰 Cost of Living

Kabul has a monthly cost of $2,080, which is 21.6% higher than Shymkent's $1,710.

🌐 Internet Infrastructure

For internet speeds, Kabul offers 7 Mbps, while Shymkent provides 30 Mbps making Shymkent's connection 328.6% faster .

☀️ Current Weather

The weather in Kabul is currently 26°C 🌧️, while Shymkent is experiencing 33°C 🌤️.

🛡️ Safety Comparison

Kabul has a safety score of 1.0 , while Shymkent scores 70.0 .

Costs
$2,080
per month
Internet
7
Mbps
Weather
26° 🌧️
High today
Costs
$1,710
per month
Internet
30
Mbps
Weather
33° 🌤️
High today
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Overall Shymkent wins

28.0
Overall Score
58.0

Shymkent is 30% better

Quality of Life Shymkent wins

1.0
Safety
70.0

Shymkent is 69% better

17.0
Healthcare
53.0

Shymkent is 36% better

Cost

87.0
Cost of Living
87.0

Climate Shymkent wins

18.0
Air Quality
52.0

Shymkent is 34% better

Infrastructure Shymkent wins

25.0
Internet Speed
63.0

Shymkent is 38% better

Social Shymkent wins

2.0
Nightlife
40.0

Shymkent is 38% better

60.0
Culture
74.0

Shymkent is 14% better

50.0
Food Scene
78.0

Shymkent is 28% better

Total Cost of Living Comparison

Category Kabul Shymkent Difference
Monthly Total $2,080 $1,710 +21.6%
Daily Average $69 $57 per day

Housing

Item Kabul Shymkent Difference
Apartment (1 bedroom) $180.00 per month $180.00 per month 0.0%

Daily Life

Item Kabul Shymkent Difference
Coffee $0.80 per cup $1.20 per cup -33.3%

Transportation

Item Kabul Shymkent Difference

Utilities

Item Kabul Shymkent Difference
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Final Verdict: Kabul vs Shymkent

Shymkent ranks as the better digital nomad destination, scoring 30.0% higher than Kabul overall.

💰 Cost Analysis

  • Monthly Budget: $2,080 vs $1,710
  • Daily Expenses: $69 vs $57
  • Shymkent is 21.6% cheaper for digital nomads

🌐 Infrastructure

  • Internet Speed: Shymkent leads with 77% faster connection
  • Public Transport: Shymkent has better public transportation

🎯 Key Advantages

Kabul Wins In:
  • No significant advantages found
Shymkent Wins In:
  • Overall Score (30% better)
  • Safety (69% better)
  • Healthcare (36% better)
  • Air Quality (34% better)
  • Internet Speed (38% better)
  • Nightlife (38% better)
  • Culture (14% better)
  • Food Scene (28% better)

💡 Final Recommendation

Choose Shymkent if you prioritize cost effectiveness and Overall Score. However, Kabul might be preferable if Overall Score is your top priority. Both cities offer unique advantages for digital nomads, with distinct trade-offs in cost of living, infrastructure, and lifestyle options.

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