Pohnpei vs Cairns – Digital Nomad Guide
Trying to decide between Pohnpei, Micronesia and Cairns, Australia? Here's a detailed comparison to help digital nomads and remote workers make an informed choice.
💰 Cost of Living
Pohnpei has a monthly cost of $2,650, which is 36.8% lower than Cairns's $4,190.
🌐 Internet Infrastructure
For internet speeds, Pohnpei offers 5 Mbps, while Cairns provides 50 Mbps – making Cairns's connection 900.0% faster .
☀️ Current Weather
The weather in Pohnpei is currently 29°C 🌧️, while Cairns is experiencing 26°C 🌫️.
🛡️ Safety Comparison
Pohnpei has a safety score of 75.0 , while Cairns scores 88.0 .
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Overall
Cairns wins
Cairns is 25% better
Quality of Life
Cairns wins
Cairns is 13% better
Cairns is 48% better
Cost
Cairns wins
Cairns is 10% better
Climate
Pohnpei wins
Pohnpei is 5% better
Infrastructure
Cairns wins
Cairns is 53% better
Social
Cairns wins
Cairns is 35% better
Cairns is 27% better
Total Cost of Living Comparison
Category | Pohnpei | Cairns | Difference |
---|---|---|---|
Monthly Total | $2,650 | $4,190 | -36.8% |
Daily Average | $88 | $140 | per day |
Housing
Item | Pohnpei | Cairns | Difference |
---|---|---|---|
Apartment (1 bedroom) | $450.00 per month | $850.00 per month | -47.1% |
Daily Life
Item | Pohnpei | Cairns | Difference |
---|---|---|---|
Coffee | $2.50 per cup | $4.00 per cup | -37.5% |
Transportation
Item | Pohnpei | Cairns | Difference |
---|
Utilities
Item | Pohnpei | Cairns | Difference |
---|
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Final Verdict: Pohnpei vs Cairns
Cairns ranks as the better digital nomad destination, scoring 25.0% higher than Pohnpei overall.
💰 Cost Analysis
- Monthly Budget: $2,650 vs $4,190
- Daily Expenses: $88 vs $140
- Pohnpei is 36.8% cheaper for digital nomads
🌐 Infrastructure
- Internet Speed: Cairns leads with 90% faster connection
- Public Transport: Cairns has better public transportation
🎯 Key Advantages
Pohnpei Wins In:
- Air Quality (5% better)
Cairns Wins In:
- Overall Score (25% better)
- Safety (13% better)
- Healthcare (48% better)
- Cost of Living (10% better)
- Internet Speed (53% better)
- Nightlife (35% better)
- Food Scene (27% better)
💡 Final Recommendation
Choose Cairns if you prioritize cost effectiveness and Overall Score. However, Pohnpei 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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