Osaka vs Shanghai – Digital Nomad Guide
Trying to decide between Osaka, Japan and Shanghai, 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 0.9% lower than Shanghai's $3,450.
🌐 Internet Infrastructure
For internet speeds, Osaka offers 100 Mbps, while Shanghai provides 100 Mbps – making Shanghai's connection 0.0% faster .
☀️ Current Weather
The weather in Osaka is currently 20°C 🌤️, while Shanghai is experiencing 24°C 🌤️.
🛡️ Safety Comparison
Osaka has a safety score of 96.0 , while Shanghai scores 79.0 .
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Overall
Osaka wins
Osaka is 6% better
Quality of Life
Osaka wins
Osaka is 17% better
Osaka is 22% better
Cost
Climate
Osaka wins
Osaka is 34% better
Infrastructure
Osaka wins
Osaka is 17% better
Social
Osaka wins
Shanghai is 6% better
Osaka is 9% better
Osaka is 6% better
Total Cost of Living Comparison
| Category | Osaka | Shanghai | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly Total | $3,420 | $3,450 | -0.9% |
| Daily Average | $114 | $115 | per day |
Housing
| Item | Osaka | Shanghai | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apartment (1 bedroom) | $750.00 per month | $850.00 per month | -11.8% |
Daily Life
| Item | Osaka | Shanghai | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coffee | $3.50 per cup | $2.50 per cup | +40.0% |
| Beer | $5.00 per pint | $3.00 per pint | +66.7% |
| Meal (Inexpensive) | $8.00 per meal | $4.00 per meal | +100.0% |
Transportation
| Item | Osaka | Shanghai | Difference |
|---|
Utilities
| Item | Osaka | Shanghai | Difference |
|---|
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Final Verdict: Osaka vs Shanghai
Osaka ranks as the better digital nomad destination, scoring 6.0% higher than Shanghai overall.
💰 Cost Analysis
- Monthly Budget: $3,420 vs $3,450
- Daily Expenses: $114 vs $115
- Osaka is 0.9% cheaper for digital nomads
🌐 Infrastructure
- Internet Speed: Shanghai leads with 0% faster connection
- Public Transport: Shanghai has better public transportation
🎯 Key Advantages
Osaka Wins In:
- Overall Score (6% better)
- Safety (17% better)
- Healthcare (22% better)
- Air Quality (34% better)
- Internet Speed (17% better)
- Culture (9% better)
- Food Scene (6% better)
Shanghai Wins In:
- Nightlife (6% better)
💡 Final Recommendation
Choose Osaka if you prioritize better quality of life metrics and Overall Score. However, Shanghai 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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