Hikkaduwa vs Chennai – Digital Nomad Guide
Trying to decide between Hikkaduwa, Sri Lanka and Chennai, India? Here's a detailed comparison to help digital nomads and remote workers make an informed choice.
💰 Cost of Living
Hikkaduwa has a monthly cost of $1,595, which is 8.3% lower than Chennai's $1,740.
🌐 Internet Infrastructure
For internet speeds, Hikkaduwa offers 15 Mbps, while Chennai provides 40 Mbps – making Chennai's connection 166.7% faster .
☀️ Current Weather
The weather in Hikkaduwa is currently 31°C ⛈️, while Chennai is experiencing 37°C 🌤️.
🛡️ Safety Comparison
Hikkaduwa has a safety score of 72.0 , while Chennai scores 64.0 .
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Overall
Chennai wins
Chennai is 7% better
Quality of Life
Chennai wins
Hikkaduwa is 8% better
Chennai is 14% better
Cost
Climate
Hikkaduwa wins
Hikkaduwa is 40% better
Infrastructure
Chennai wins
Chennai is 9% better
Social
Chennai wins
Chennai is 11% better
Chennai is 9% better
Chennai is 15% better
Total Cost of Living Comparison
| Category | Hikkaduwa | Chennai | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly Total | $1,595 | $1,740 | -8.3% |
| Daily Average | $53 | $58 | per day |
Housing
| Item | Hikkaduwa | Chennai | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apartment (1 bedroom) | $180.00 per month | $180.00 per month | 0.0% |
Daily Life
| Item | Hikkaduwa | Chennai | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coffee | $1.20 per cup | $1.20 per cup | 0.0% |
| Beer | $2.00 per pint | $2.00 per pint | 0.0% |
| Meal (Inexpensive) | $2.50 per meal | $2.50 per meal | 0.0% |
Transportation
| Item | Hikkaduwa | Chennai | Difference |
|---|
Utilities
| Item | Hikkaduwa | Chennai | Difference |
|---|
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Final Verdict: Hikkaduwa vs Chennai
Chennai ranks as the better digital nomad destination, scoring 7.0% higher than Hikkaduwa overall.
💰 Cost Analysis
- Monthly Budget: $1,595 vs $1,740
- Daily Expenses: $53 vs $58
- Hikkaduwa is 8.3% cheaper for digital nomads
🌐 Infrastructure
- Internet Speed: Chennai leads with 63% faster connection
- Public Transport: Chennai has better public transportation
🎯 Key Advantages
Hikkaduwa Wins In:
- Safety (8% better)
- Air Quality (40% better)
Chennai Wins In:
- Overall Score (7% better)
- Healthcare (14% better)
- Internet Speed (9% better)
- Nightlife (11% better)
- Culture (9% better)
- Food Scene (15% better)
💡 Final Recommendation
Choose Chennai if you prioritize cost effectiveness and Overall Score. However, Hikkaduwa 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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