Ella vs Chennai – Digital Nomad Guide
Trying to decide between Ella, Sri Lanka and Chennai, India? Here's a detailed comparison to help digital nomads and remote workers make an informed choice.
💰 Cost of Living
Ella has a monthly cost of $1,440, which is 17.2% lower than Chennai's $1,740.
🌐 Internet Infrastructure
For internet speeds, Ella offers 25 Mbps, while Chennai provides 40 Mbps – making Chennai's connection 60.0% faster .
☀️ Current Weather
The weather in Ella is currently 27°C ⛈️, while Chennai is experiencing 39°C 🌤️.
🛡️ Safety Comparison
Ella has a safety score of 74.0 , while Chennai scores 61.0 .

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Overall
Chennai wins
Chennai is 8% better
Quality of Life
Chennai wins
Ella is 13% better
Chennai is 25% better
Cost
Climate
Ella wins
Ella is 49% better
Infrastructure
Chennai wins
Chennai is 17% better
Social
Chennai wins
Chennai is 36% better
Chennai is 13% better
Total Cost of Living Comparison
Category | Ella | Chennai | Difference |
---|---|---|---|
Monthly Total | $1,440 | $1,740 | -17.2% |
Daily Average | $48 | $58 | per day |
Housing
Item | Ella | Chennai | Difference |
---|---|---|---|
Apartment (1 bedroom) | $150.00 per month | $180.00 per month | -16.7% |
Daily Life
Item | Ella | Chennai | Difference |
---|---|---|---|
Coffee | $1.20 per cup | $1.20 per cup | 0.0% |
Transportation
Item | Ella | Chennai | Difference |
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Utilities
Item | Ella | Chennai | Difference |
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Final Verdict: Ella vs Chennai
Chennai ranks as the better digital nomad destination, scoring 8.0% higher than Ella overall.
💰 Cost Analysis
- Monthly Budget: $1,440 vs $1,740
- Daily Expenses: $48 vs $58
- Ella is 17.2% cheaper for digital nomads
🌐 Infrastructure
- Internet Speed: Chennai leads with 38% faster connection
- Public Transport: Chennai has better public transportation
🎯 Key Advantages
Ella Wins In:
- Safety (13% better)
- Air Quality (49% better)
Chennai Wins In:
- Overall Score (8% better)
- Healthcare (25% better)
- Internet Speed (17% better)
- Nightlife (36% better)
- Food Scene (13% better)
💡 Final Recommendation
Choose Chennai if you prioritize cost effectiveness and Overall Score. However, Ella 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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