Mekelle vs Hawassa – Digital Nomad Guide
Trying to decide between Mekelle, Ethiopia and Hawassa, Ethiopia? Here's a detailed comparison to help digital nomads and remote workers make an informed choice.
💰 Cost of Living
Mekelle has a monthly cost of $1,600, which is 28.5% higher than Hawassa's $1,245.
🌐 Internet Infrastructure
For internet speeds, Mekelle offers 10 Mbps, while Hawassa provides 20 Mbps – making Hawassa's connection 100.0% faster .
☀️ Current Weather
The weather in Mekelle is currently 28°C 🌤️, while Hawassa is experiencing 29°C ⛈️.
🛡️ Safety Comparison
Mekelle has a safety score of 40.0 , while Hawassa scores 50.0 .

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Overall
Quality of Life
Hawassa wins
Hawassa is 10% better
Cost
Climate
Hawassa wins
Hawassa is 20% better
Infrastructure
Social
Mekelle is 7% better
Total Cost of Living Comparison
Category | Mekelle | Hawassa | Difference |
---|---|---|---|
Monthly Total | $1,600 | $1,245 | +28.5% |
Daily Average | $53 | $42 | per day |
Housing
Item | Mekelle | Hawassa | Difference |
---|---|---|---|
Apartment (1 bedroom) | $120.00 per month | $120.00 per month | 0.0% |
Daily Life
Item | Mekelle | Hawassa | Difference |
---|---|---|---|
Coffee | $0.50 per cup | $0.60 per cup | -16.7% |
Transportation
Item | Mekelle | Hawassa | Difference |
---|
Utilities
Item | Mekelle | Hawassa | Difference |
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Final Verdict: Mekelle vs Hawassa
Hawassa ranks as the better digital nomad destination, scoring 2.0% higher than Mekelle overall.
💰 Cost Analysis
- Monthly Budget: $1,600 vs $1,245
- Daily Expenses: $53 vs $42
- Hawassa is 28.5% cheaper for digital nomads
🌐 Infrastructure
- Internet Speed: Hawassa leads with 50% faster connection
- Public Transport: Hawassa has better public transportation
🎯 Key Advantages
Mekelle Wins In:
- Nightlife (7% better)
Hawassa Wins In:
- Safety (10% better)
- Air Quality (20% better)
💡 Final Recommendation
Choose Hawassa if you prioritize cost effectiveness and Safety. However, Mekelle might be preferable if Safety 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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