Kuala Belait vs Surabaya – Digital Nomad Guide
Trying to decide between Kuala Belait, Brunei and Surabaya, Indonesia? Here's a detailed comparison to help digital nomads and remote workers make an informed choice.
💰 Cost of Living
Kuala Belait has a monthly cost of $2,740, which is 31.7% higher than Surabaya's $2,080.
🌐 Internet Infrastructure
For internet speeds, Kuala Belait offers 50 Mbps, while Surabaya provides 50 Mbps – making Surabaya's connection 0.0% faster .
☀️ Current Weather
The weather in Kuala Belait is currently 32°C 🌧️, while Surabaya is experiencing 33°C 🌧️.
🛡️ Safety Comparison
Kuala Belait has a safety score of 93.0 , while Surabaya scores 74.0 .
Stay covered worldwide with flexible health insurance plans. Health insurance for travelers.
Overall
Surabaya wins
Surabaya is 11% better
Quality of Life
Kuala Belait wins
Kuala Belait is 19% better
Kuala Belait is 6% better
Cost
Surabaya wins
Surabaya is 25% better
Climate
Kuala Belait wins
Kuala Belait is 34% better
Infrastructure
Social
Surabaya wins
Surabaya is 31% better
Surabaya is 11% better
Surabaya is 25% better
Total Cost of Living Comparison
Category | Kuala Belait | Surabaya | Difference |
---|---|---|---|
Monthly Total | $2,740 | $2,080 | +31.7% |
Daily Average | $91 | $69 | per day |
Housing
Item | Kuala Belait | Surabaya | Difference |
---|---|---|---|
Apartment (1 bedroom) | $450.00 per month | $250.00 per month | +80.0% |
Daily Life
Item | Kuala Belait | Surabaya | Difference |
---|---|---|---|
Coffee | $2.50 per cup | $1.20 per cup | +108.3% |
Beer | $3.50 per pint | $1.50 per pint | +133.3% |
Meal (Inexpensive) | $5.00 per meal | $2.00 per meal | +150.0% |
Transportation
Item | Kuala Belait | Surabaya | Difference |
---|
Utilities
Item | Kuala Belait | Surabaya | Difference |
---|
Comprehensive health coverage wherever your journey takes you. Nomad insurance made easy.
Final Verdict: Kuala Belait vs Surabaya
Surabaya ranks as the better digital nomad destination, scoring 11.0% higher than Kuala Belait overall.
💰 Cost Analysis
- Monthly Budget: $2,740 vs $2,080
- Daily Expenses: $91 vs $69
- Surabaya is 31.7% cheaper for digital nomads
🌐 Infrastructure
- Internet Speed: Surabaya leads with 0% faster connection
- Public Transport: Surabaya has better public transportation
🎯 Key Advantages
Kuala Belait Wins In:
- Safety (19% better)
- Healthcare (6% better)
- Air Quality (34% better)
Surabaya Wins In:
- Overall Score (11% better)
- Cost of Living (25% better)
- Nightlife (31% better)
- Culture (11% better)
- Food Scene (25% better)
💡 Final Recommendation
Choose Surabaya if you prioritize cost effectiveness and Overall Score. However, Kuala Belait 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.

Earn rental income and capital gains from luxury Dubai real estate. Own shares in Dubai properties.