Bandar Seri Begawan vs Surabaya – Digital Nomad Guide
Trying to decide between Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei and Surabaya, Indonesia? Here's a detailed comparison to help digital nomads and remote workers make an informed choice.
💰 Cost of Living
Bandar Seri Begawan has a monthly cost of $2,730, which is 31.3% higher than Surabaya's $2,080.
🌐 Internet Infrastructure
For internet speeds, Bandar Seri Begawan offers 25 Mbps, while Surabaya provides 50 Mbps – making Surabaya's connection 100.0% faster .
☀️ Current Weather
The weather in Bandar Seri Begawan is currently 33°C 🌧️, while Surabaya is experiencing 32°C 🌧️.
🛡️ Safety Comparison
Bandar Seri Begawan has a safety score of 90.0 , while Surabaya scores 74.0 .

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Overall
Surabaya wins
Surabaya is 16% better
Quality of Life
Bandar Seri Begawan wins
Bandar Seri Begawan is 16% better
Bandar Seri Begawan is 11% better
Cost
Surabaya wins
Surabaya is 39% better
Climate
Bandar Seri Begawan wins
Bandar Seri Begawan is 23% better
Infrastructure
Surabaya wins
Surabaya is 6% better
Social
Surabaya wins
Surabaya is 39% better
Surabaya is 8% better
Surabaya is 29% better
Total Cost of Living Comparison
Category | Bandar Seri Begawan | Surabaya | Difference |
---|---|---|---|
Monthly Total | $2,730 | $2,080 | +31.3% |
Daily Average | $91 | $69 | per day |
Housing
Item | Bandar Seri Begawan | Surabaya | Difference |
---|---|---|---|
Apartment (1 bedroom) | $550.00 per month | $250.00 per month | +120.0% |
Daily Life
Item | Bandar Seri Begawan | Surabaya | Difference |
---|---|---|---|
Coffee | $2.50 per cup | $1.20 per cup | +108.3% |
Beer | $3.00 per pint | $1.50 per pint | +100.0% |
Meal (Inexpensive) | $5.00 per meal | $2.00 per meal | +150.0% |
Transportation
Item | Bandar Seri Begawan | Surabaya | Difference |
---|
Utilities
Item | Bandar Seri Begawan | Surabaya | Difference |
---|
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Final Verdict: Bandar Seri Begawan vs Surabaya
Surabaya ranks as the better digital nomad destination, scoring 16.0% higher than Bandar Seri Begawan overall.
💰 Cost Analysis
- Monthly Budget: $2,730 vs $2,080
- Daily Expenses: $91 vs $69
- Surabaya is 31.3% cheaper for digital nomads
🌐 Infrastructure
- Internet Speed: Surabaya leads with 50% faster connection
- Public Transport: Surabaya has better public transportation
🎯 Key Advantages
Bandar Seri Begawan Wins In:
- Safety (16% better)
- Healthcare (11% better)
- Air Quality (23% better)
Surabaya Wins In:
- Overall Score (16% better)
- Cost of Living (39% better)
- Internet Speed (6% better)
- Nightlife (39% better)
- Culture (8% better)
- Food Scene (29% better)
💡 Final Recommendation
Choose Surabaya if you prioritize cost effectiveness and Overall Score. However, Bandar Seri Begawan 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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