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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 26°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
26° 🌧️
High today
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Overall Bishkek wins

62.0
Overall Score
58.0

Quality of Life

67.0
Safety
73.0

Karakol is 6% better

55.0
Healthcare
47.0

Bishkek is 8% better

Cost

87.0
Cost of Living
87.0

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

54.0
Nightlife
34.0

Bishkek is 20% better

79.0
Culture
78.0
78.0
Food Scene
69.0

Bishkek is 9% 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
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Final Verdict: Bishkek vs Karakol

Bishkek ranks as the better digital nomad destination, scoring 4.0% 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:
  • Healthcare (8% better)
  • Nightlife (20% better)
  • Food Scene (9% better)
Karakol Wins In:
  • Safety (6% better)
  • Air Quality (26% better)

💡 Final Recommendation

Choose Bishkek if you prioritize better quality of life metrics and Healthcare. However, Karakol might be preferable if Healthcare 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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