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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 31°C 🌫️, while Bamako is experiencing 35°C 🌤️.

🛡️ Safety Comparison

Cotonou has a safety score of 50.0 , while Bamako scores 30.0 .

Costs
$1,895
per month
Internet
15
Mbps
Weather
31° 🌫️
High today
Costs
$1,955
per month
Internet
10
Mbps
Weather
35° 🌤️
High today
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Overall Cotonou wins

51.0
Overall Score
46.0

Cotonou is 5% better

Quality of Life Cotonou wins

50.0
Safety
30.0

Cotonou is 20% better

45.0
Healthcare
39.0

Cotonou is 6% better

Cost Bamako wins

78.0
Cost of Living
81.0

Climate Cotonou wins

39.0
Air Quality
32.0

Cotonou is 7% better

Infrastructure Cotonou wins

47.0
Internet Speed
37.0

Cotonou is 10% better

Social Cotonou wins

51.0
Nightlife
45.0

Cotonou is 6% better

78.0
Culture
78.0
74.0
Food Scene
72.0

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 5.0% 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 (5% better)
  • Safety (20% better)
  • Healthcare (6% better)
  • Air Quality (7% better)
  • Internet Speed (10% better)
  • Nightlife (6% better)
Bamako Wins In:
  • No significant advantages found

💡 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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