Osaka vs Qingdao – Digital Nomad Guide
Trying to decide between Osaka, Japan and Qingdao, China? Here's a detailed comparison to help digital nomads and remote workers make an informed choice.
💰 Cost of Living
Osaka has a monthly cost of $3,420, which is 52.7% higher than Qingdao's $2,240.
🌐 Internet Infrastructure
For internet speeds, Osaka offers 100 Mbps, while Qingdao provides 100 Mbps – making Qingdao's connection 0.0% faster .
☀️ Current Weather
The weather in Osaka is currently 20°C 🌤️, while Qingdao is experiencing 26°C 🌤️.
🛡️ Safety Comparison
Osaka has a safety score of 96.0 , while Qingdao scores 79.0 .

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Overall
Osaka wins
Osaka is 5% better
Quality of Life
Osaka wins
Osaka is 17% better
Osaka is 22% better
Cost
Qingdao wins
Qingdao is 30% better
Climate
Osaka wins
Infrastructure
Osaka wins
Osaka is 12% better
Social
Osaka wins
Osaka is 17% better
Osaka is 17% better
Osaka is 19% better
Total Cost of Living Comparison
Category | Osaka | Qingdao | Difference |
---|---|---|---|
Monthly Total | $3,420 | $2,240 | +52.7% |
Daily Average | $114 | $75 | per day |
Housing
Item | Osaka | Qingdao | Difference |
---|---|---|---|
Apartment (1 bedroom) | $750.00 per month | $350.00 per month | +114.3% |
Daily Life
Item | Osaka | Qingdao | Difference |
---|---|---|---|
Coffee | $3.50 per cup | $1.50 per cup | +133.3% |
Beer | $5.00 per pint | $2.00 per pint | +150.0% |
Meal (Inexpensive) | $8.00 per meal | $3.00 per meal | +166.7% |
Transportation
Item | Osaka | Qingdao | Difference |
---|
Utilities
Item | Osaka | Qingdao | Difference |
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Final Verdict: Osaka vs Qingdao
Osaka ranks as the better digital nomad destination, scoring 5.0% higher than Qingdao overall.
💰 Cost Analysis
- Monthly Budget: $3,420 vs $2,240
- Daily Expenses: $114 vs $75
- Qingdao is 52.7% cheaper for digital nomads
🌐 Infrastructure
- Internet Speed: Qingdao leads with 0% faster connection
- Public Transport: Qingdao has better public transportation
🎯 Key Advantages
Osaka Wins In:
- Overall Score (5% better)
- Safety (17% better)
- Healthcare (22% better)
- Internet Speed (12% better)
- Nightlife (17% better)
- Culture (17% better)
- Food Scene (19% better)
Qingdao Wins In:
- Cost of Living (30% better)
💡 Final Recommendation
Choose Osaka if you prioritize better quality of life metrics and Overall Score. However, Qingdao 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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