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Mombasa vs Nairobi – Digital Nomad Guide

Trying to decide between Mombasa, Kenya and Nairobi, Kenya? Here's a detailed comparison to help digital nomads and remote workers make an informed choice.

💰 Cost of Living

Mombasa has a monthly cost of $2,120, which is 24.6% lower than Nairobi's $2,810.

🌐 Internet Infrastructure

For internet speeds, Mombasa offers 30 Mbps, while Nairobi provides 30 Mbps making Nairobi's connection 0.0% faster .

☀️ Current Weather

The weather in Mombasa is currently 29°C 🌧️, while Nairobi is experiencing 21°C 🌧️.

🛡️ Safety Comparison

Mombasa has a safety score of 52.0 , while Nairobi scores 48.0 .

Costs
$2,120
per month
Internet
30
Mbps
Weather
29° 🌧️
High today
Costs
$2,810
per month
Internet
30
Mbps
Weather
21° 🌧️
High today
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Overall Nairobi wins

59.0
Overall Score
66.0

Nairobi is 7% better

Quality of Life

52.0
Safety
48.0
54.0
Healthcare
62.0

Nairobi is 8% better

Cost

78.0
Cost of Living
78.0

Climate Mombasa wins

55.0
Air Quality
38.0

Mombasa is 17% better

Infrastructure

67.0
Internet Speed
67.0

Social Nairobi wins

55.0
Nightlife
70.0

Nairobi is 15% better

83.0
Culture
84.0
79.0
Food Scene
78.0

Total Cost of Living Comparison

Category Mombasa Nairobi Difference
Monthly Total $2,120 $2,810 -24.6%
Daily Average $71 $94 per day

Housing

Item Mombasa Nairobi Difference
Apartment (1 bedroom) $250.00 per month $350.00 per month -28.6%

Daily Life

Item Mombasa Nairobi Difference
Coffee $1.20 per cup $1.50 per cup -20.0%

Transportation

Item Mombasa Nairobi Difference

Utilities

Item Mombasa Nairobi Difference
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Final Verdict: Mombasa vs Nairobi

Nairobi ranks as the better digital nomad destination, scoring 7.0% higher than Mombasa overall.

💰 Cost Analysis

  • Monthly Budget: $2,120 vs $2,810
  • Daily Expenses: $71 vs $94
  • Mombasa is 24.6% cheaper for digital nomads

🌐 Infrastructure

  • Internet Speed: Nairobi leads with 0% faster connection
  • Public Transport: Nairobi has better public transportation

🎯 Key Advantages

Mombasa Wins In:
  • Air Quality (17% better)
Nairobi Wins In:
  • Overall Score (7% better)
  • Healthcare (8% better)
  • Nightlife (15% better)

💡 Final Recommendation

Choose Nairobi if you prioritize cost effectiveness and Overall Score. However, Mombasa 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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