Cotonou vs Bamako – Digital Nomad Guide
Trying to decide between Cotonou, Benin and Bamako, Mali? Here's a detailed comparison to help digital nomads and remote workers make an informed choice.
💰 Cost of Living
Cotonou has a monthly cost of $1,895, which is 3.1% lower than Bamako's $1,955.
🌐 Internet Infrastructure
For internet speeds, Cotonou offers 15 Mbps, while Bamako provides 10 Mbps – making Cotonou's connection 50.0% faster .
☀️ Current Weather
The weather in Cotonou is currently 32°C 🌤️, while Bamako is experiencing 34°C ⛈️.
🛡️ Safety Comparison
Cotonou has a safety score of 50.0 , while Bamako scores 30.0 .
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Overall
Cotonou wins
Cotonou is 6% better
Quality of Life
Cotonou wins
Cotonou is 20% better
Cotonou is 8% better
Cost
Bamako wins
Bamako is 6% better
Climate
Cotonou wins
Cotonou is 9% better
Infrastructure
Cotonou wins
Cotonou is 9% better
Social
Cotonou wins
Cotonou is 10% better
Cotonou is 10% better
Total Cost of Living Comparison
| Category | Cotonou | Bamako | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly Total | $1,895 | $1,955 | -3.1% |
| Daily Average | $63 | $65 | per day |
Housing
| Item | Cotonou | Bamako | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apartment (1 bedroom) | $250.00 per month | $180.00 per month | +38.9% |
Daily Life
| Item | Cotonou | Bamako | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coffee | $1.20 per cup | $1.20 per cup | 0.0% |
| Beer | $1.50 per pint | $1.50 per pint | 0.0% |
| Meal (Inexpensive) | $2.00 per meal | $2.50 per meal | -20.0% |
Transportation
| Item | Cotonou | Bamako | Difference |
|---|
Utilities
| Item | Cotonou | Bamako | Difference |
|---|
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Final Verdict: Cotonou vs Bamako
Cotonou ranks as the better digital nomad destination, scoring 6.0% higher than Bamako overall.
💰 Cost Analysis
- Monthly Budget: $1,895 vs $1,955
- Daily Expenses: $63 vs $65
- Cotonou is 3.1% cheaper for digital nomads
🌐 Infrastructure
- Internet Speed: Cotonou leads with 50% faster connection
- Public Transport: Bamako has better public transportation
🎯 Key Advantages
Cotonou Wins In:
- Overall Score (6% better)
- Safety (20% better)
- Healthcare (8% better)
- Air Quality (9% better)
- Internet Speed (9% better)
- Nightlife (10% better)
- Food Scene (10% better)
Bamako Wins In:
- Cost of Living (6% better)
💡 Final Recommendation
Choose Cotonou if you prioritize better quality of life metrics and Overall Score. However, Bamako 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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