Surabaya vs Yogyakarta – Digital Nomad Guide
Trying to decide between Surabaya, Indonesia and Yogyakarta, Indonesia? Here's a detailed comparison to help digital nomads and remote workers make an informed choice.
💰 Cost of Living
Surabaya has a monthly cost of $2,080, which is 28.4% higher than Yogyakarta's $1,620.
🌐 Internet Infrastructure
For internet speeds, Surabaya offers 50 Mbps, while Yogyakarta provides 25 Mbps – making Surabaya's connection 100.0% faster .
☀️ Current Weather
The weather in Surabaya is currently 31°C ⛈️, while Yogyakarta is experiencing 29°C ⛈️.
🛡️ Safety Comparison
Surabaya has a safety score of 74.0 , while Yogyakarta scores 79.0 .

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Overall
Yogyakarta wins
Yogyakarta is 5% better
Quality of Life
Yogyakarta wins
Yogyakarta is 5% better
Cost
Yogyakarta wins
Yogyakarta is 6% better
Climate
Yogyakarta wins
Yogyakarta is 11% better
Infrastructure
Surabaya wins
Surabaya is 6% better
Social
Yogyakarta wins
Yogyakarta is 19% better
Yogyakarta is 8% better
Total Cost of Living Comparison
Category | Surabaya | Yogyakarta | Difference |
---|---|---|---|
Monthly Total | $2,080 | $1,620 | +28.4% |
Daily Average | $69 | $54 | per day |
Housing
Item | Surabaya | Yogyakarta | Difference |
---|---|---|---|
Apartment (1 bedroom) | $250.00 per month | $180.00 per month | +38.9% |
Daily Life
Item | Surabaya | Yogyakarta | Difference |
---|---|---|---|
Coffee | $1.20 per cup | $1.20 per cup | 0.0% |
Beer | $1.50 per pint | $1.50 per pint | 0.0% |
Meal (Inexpensive) | $2.00 per meal | $1.80 per meal | +11.1% |
Transportation
Item | Surabaya | Yogyakarta | Difference |
---|
Utilities
Item | Surabaya | Yogyakarta | Difference |
---|

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Final Verdict: Surabaya vs Yogyakarta
Yogyakarta ranks as the better digital nomad destination, scoring 5.0% higher than Surabaya overall.
💰 Cost Analysis
- Monthly Budget: $2,080 vs $1,620
- Daily Expenses: $69 vs $54
- Yogyakarta is 28.4% cheaper for digital nomads
🌐 Infrastructure
- Internet Speed: Surabaya leads with 100% faster connection
- Public Transport: Yogyakarta has better public transportation
🎯 Key Advantages
Surabaya Wins In:
- Internet Speed (6% better)
Yogyakarta Wins In:
- Overall Score (5% better)
- Safety (5% better)
- Cost of Living (6% better)
- Air Quality (11% better)
- Culture (19% better)
- Food Scene (8% better)
💡 Final Recommendation
Choose Yogyakarta if you prioritize cost effectiveness and Overall Score. However, Surabaya 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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