Labuan Bajo vs Surabaya – Digital Nomad Guide
Trying to decide between Labuan Bajo, Indonesia and Surabaya, Indonesia? Here's a detailed comparison to help digital nomads and remote workers make an informed choice.
💰 Cost of Living
Labuan Bajo has a monthly cost of $1,890, which is 9.1% lower than Surabaya's $2,080.
🌐 Internet Infrastructure
For internet speeds, Labuan Bajo offers 20 Mbps, while Surabaya provides 50 Mbps – making Surabaya's connection 150.0% faster .
☀️ Current Weather
The weather in Labuan Bajo is currently 31°C ⛈️, while Surabaya is experiencing 34°C 🌤️.
🛡️ Safety Comparison
Labuan Bajo has a safety score of 75.0 , while Surabaya scores 74.0 .
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Overall
Surabaya wins
Surabaya is 9% better
Quality of Life
Surabaya wins
Surabaya is 17% better
Cost
Surabaya wins
Climate
Labuan Bajo wins
Labuan Bajo is 22% better
Infrastructure
Surabaya wins
Surabaya is 15% better
Social
Surabaya wins
Surabaya is 24% better
Surabaya is 8% better
Total Cost of Living Comparison
Category | Labuan Bajo | Surabaya | Difference |
---|---|---|---|
Monthly Total | $1,890 | $2,080 | -9.1% |
Daily Average | $63 | $69 | per day |
Housing
Item | Labuan Bajo | Surabaya | Difference |
---|---|---|---|
Apartment (1 bedroom) | $250.00 per month | $250.00 per month | 0.0% |
Daily Life
Item | Labuan Bajo | Surabaya | Difference |
---|---|---|---|
Coffee | $1.50 per cup | $1.20 per cup | +25.0% |
Transportation
Item | Labuan Bajo | Surabaya | Difference |
---|
Utilities
Item | Labuan Bajo | Surabaya | Difference |
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Final Verdict: Labuan Bajo vs Surabaya
Surabaya ranks as the better digital nomad destination, scoring 9.0% higher than Labuan Bajo overall.
💰 Cost Analysis
- Monthly Budget: $1,890 vs $2,080
- Daily Expenses: $63 vs $69
- Labuan Bajo is 9.1% cheaper for digital nomads
🌐 Infrastructure
- Internet Speed: Surabaya leads with 60% faster connection
- Public Transport: Surabaya has better public transportation
🎯 Key Advantages
Labuan Bajo Wins In:
- Air Quality (22% better)
Surabaya Wins In:
- Overall Score (9% better)
- Healthcare (17% better)
- Internet Speed (15% better)
- Nightlife (24% better)
- Food Scene (8% better)
💡 Final Recommendation
Choose Surabaya if you prioritize cost effectiveness and Overall Score. However, Labuan Bajo 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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