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 32°C ⛈️, while Surabaya is experiencing 30°C 🌧️.
🛡️ Safety Comparison
Bandar Seri Begawan has a safety score of 92.0 , while Surabaya scores 74.0 .
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Overall
Surabaya wins
Surabaya is 12% better
Quality of Life
Bandar Seri Begawan wins
Bandar Seri Begawan is 18% better
Bandar Seri Begawan is 8% better
Cost
Surabaya wins
Surabaya is 36% better
Climate
Bandar Seri Begawan wins
Bandar Seri Begawan is 32% better
Infrastructure
Social
Surabaya wins
Surabaya is 29% better
Surabaya is 8% better
Surabaya is 24% 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 12.0% 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 (18% better)
- Healthcare (8% better)
- Air Quality (32% better)
Surabaya Wins In:
- Overall Score (12% better)
- Cost of Living (36% better)
- Nightlife (29% better)
- Culture (8% better)
- Food Scene (24% 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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