Ratnapura vs Chennai – Digital Nomad Guide
Trying to decide between Ratnapura, Sri Lanka and Chennai, India? Here's a detailed comparison to help digital nomads and remote workers make an informed choice.
💰 Cost of Living
Ratnapura has a monthly cost of $1,300, which is 25.3% lower than Chennai's $1,740.
🌐 Internet Infrastructure
For internet speeds, Ratnapura offers 20 Mbps, while Chennai provides 40 Mbps – making Chennai's connection 100.0% faster .
☀️ Current Weather
The weather in Ratnapura is currently 32°C 🌤️, while Chennai is experiencing 38°C 🌧️.
🛡️ Safety Comparison
Ratnapura has a safety score of 71.0 , while Chennai scores 58.0 .
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Overall
Chennai wins
Chennai is 12% better
Quality of Life
Chennai wins
Ratnapura is 13% better
Chennai is 28% better
Cost
Ratnapura wins
Ratnapura is 6% better
Climate
Ratnapura wins
Ratnapura is 22% better
Infrastructure
Chennai wins
Chennai is 20% better
Social
Chennai wins
Chennai is 38% better
Chennai is 9% better
Chennai is 13% better
Total Cost of Living Comparison
Category | Ratnapura | Chennai | Difference |
---|---|---|---|
Monthly Total | $1,300 | $1,740 | -25.3% |
Daily Average | $43 | $58 | per day |
Housing
Item | Ratnapura | Chennai | Difference |
---|---|---|---|
Apartment (1 bedroom) | $120.00 per month | $180.00 per month | -33.3% |
Daily Life
Item | Ratnapura | Chennai | Difference |
---|---|---|---|
Coffee | $0.80 per cup | $1.20 per cup | -33.3% |
Beer | $1.20 per pint | $2.00 per pint | -40.0% |
Meal (Inexpensive) | $1.50 per meal | $2.50 per meal | -40.0% |
Transportation
Item | Ratnapura | Chennai | Difference |
---|
Utilities
Item | Ratnapura | Chennai | Difference |
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Final Verdict: Ratnapura vs Chennai
Chennai ranks as the better digital nomad destination, scoring 12.0% higher than Ratnapura overall.
💰 Cost Analysis
- Monthly Budget: $1,300 vs $1,740
- Daily Expenses: $43 vs $58
- Ratnapura is 25.3% cheaper for digital nomads
🌐 Infrastructure
- Internet Speed: Chennai leads with 50% faster connection
- Public Transport: Chennai has better public transportation
🎯 Key Advantages
Ratnapura Wins In:
- Safety (13% better)
- Cost of Living (6% better)
- Air Quality (22% better)
Chennai Wins In:
- Overall Score (12% better)
- Healthcare (28% better)
- Internet Speed (20% better)
- Nightlife (38% better)
- Culture (9% better)
- Food Scene (13% better)
💡 Final Recommendation
Choose Chennai if you prioritize cost effectiveness and Overall Score. However, Ratnapura 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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