Wise Logo
Wise (formerly TransferWise) is a trusted money transfer service used by millions of digital nomads worldwide.

Low-fee international transfers.

Affiliate disclosure

Bishkek vs Karakol – Digital Nomad Guide

Trying to decide between Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan and Karakol, Kyrgyzstan? Here's a detailed comparison to help digital nomads and remote workers make an informed choice.

💰 Cost of Living

Bishkek has a monthly cost of $1,710, which is 42.5% higher than Karakol's $1,200.

🌐 Internet Infrastructure

For internet speeds, Bishkek offers 25 Mbps, while Karakol provides 20 Mbps making Bishkek's connection 25.0% faster .

☀️ Current Weather

The weather in Bishkek is currently 34°C 🌤️, while Karakol is experiencing 23°C 🌤️.

🛡️ Safety Comparison

Bishkek has a safety score of 67.0 , while Karakol scores 73.0 .

Costs
$1,710
per month
Internet
25
Mbps
Weather
34° 🌤️
High today
Costs
$1,200
per month
Internet
20
Mbps
Weather
23° 🌤️
High today
GetStake Logo
GetStake allows you to invest in fractional real estate in Dubai's premium properties, with investments starting from just $500.

Real estate without the hassle.

Affiliate disclosure

Overall Bishkek wins

62.0
Overall Score
55.0

Bishkek is 7% better

Quality of Life

67.0
Safety
73.0

Karakol is 6% better

51.0
Healthcare
42.0

Bishkek is 9% better

Cost Karakol wins

87.0
Cost of Living
91.0

Climate Karakol wins

55.0
Air Quality
81.0

Karakol is 26% better

Infrastructure Bishkek wins

67.0
Internet Speed
63.0

Social Bishkek wins

56.0
Nightlife
30.0

Bishkek is 26% better

79.0
Culture
79.0
78.0
Food Scene
68.0

Bishkek is 10% better

Total Cost of Living Comparison

Category Bishkek Karakol Difference
Monthly Total $1,710 $1,200 +42.5%
Daily Average $57 $40 per day

Housing

Item Bishkek Karakol Difference
Apartment (1 bedroom) $220.00 per month $120.00 per month +83.3%

Daily Life

Item Bishkek Karakol Difference
Coffee $0.80 per cup $0.80 per cup 0.0%

Transportation

Item Bishkek Karakol Difference

Utilities

Item Bishkek Karakol Difference
GetStake Logo
GetStake allows you to invest in fractional real estate in Dubai's premium properties, with investments starting from just $500.

Own shares in Dubai properties.

Affiliate disclosure

Final Verdict: Bishkek vs Karakol

Bishkek ranks as the better digital nomad destination, scoring 7.0% higher than Karakol overall.

💰 Cost Analysis

  • Monthly Budget: $1,710 vs $1,200
  • Daily Expenses: $57 vs $40
  • Karakol is 42.5% cheaper for digital nomads

🌐 Infrastructure

  • Internet Speed: Bishkek leads with 25% faster connection
  • Public Transport: Karakol has better public transportation

🎯 Key Advantages

Bishkek Wins In:
  • Overall Score (7% better)
  • Healthcare (9% better)
  • Nightlife (26% better)
  • Food Scene (10% better)
Karakol Wins In:
  • Safety (6% better)
  • Air Quality (26% better)

💡 Final Recommendation

Choose Bishkek if you prioritize better quality of life metrics and Overall Score. However, Karakol 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.

Revolut Logo
Revolut Ultra offers premium banking with global perks like lounge access, data, subscriptions, and insurance, ideal for frequent travelers.

Revolut Ultra: Travel perks.

Affiliate disclosure

Feedback Thank You!

Thank you!

Your feedback has been submitted successfully.