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Mahajanga vs Johannesburg – Digital Nomad Guide
Trying to decide between Mahajanga, Madagascar and Johannesburg, South Africa? Here's a detailed comparison to help digital nomads and remote workers make an informed choice.
💰 Cost of Living
Mahajanga has a monthly cost of $1,455, which is 47.7% lower than Johannesburg's $2,780.
🌐 Internet Infrastructure
For internet speeds, Mahajanga offers 15 Mbps, while Johannesburg provides 30 Mbps – making Johannesburg's connection 100.0% faster .
☀️ Current Weather
The weather in Mahajanga is currently 32°C 🌤️, while Johannesburg is experiencing 9°C 🌤️.
🛡️ Safety Comparison
Mahajanga has a safety score of 55.0 , while Johannesburg scores 38.0 .
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Overall
Johannesburg wins
Johannesburg is 10% better
Quality of Life
Johannesburg wins
Mahajanga is 17% better
Johannesburg is 25% better
Cost
Mahajanga wins
Mahajanga is 16% better
Climate
Mahajanga wins
Mahajanga is 37% better
Infrastructure
Johannesburg wins
Johannesburg is 24% better
Social
Johannesburg wins
Johannesburg is 41% better
Johannesburg is 9% better
Johannesburg is 12% better
Total Cost of Living Comparison
| Category | Mahajanga | Johannesburg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly Total | $1,455 | $2,780 | -47.7% |
| Daily Average | $49 | $93 | per day |
Housing
| Item | Mahajanga | Johannesburg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apartment (1 bedroom) | $120.00 per month | $450.00 per month | -73.3% |
Daily Life
| Item | Mahajanga | Johannesburg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coffee | $0.80 per cup | $1.50 per cup | -46.7% |
Transportation
| Item | Mahajanga | Johannesburg | Difference |
|---|
Utilities
| Item | Mahajanga | Johannesburg | Difference |
|---|
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Final Verdict: Mahajanga vs Johannesburg
Johannesburg ranks as the better digital nomad destination, scoring 10.0% higher than Mahajanga overall.
💰 Cost Analysis
- Monthly Budget: $1,455 vs $2,780
- Daily Expenses: $49 vs $93
- Mahajanga is 47.7% cheaper for digital nomads
🌐 Infrastructure
- Internet Speed: Johannesburg leads with 50% faster connection
- Public Transport: Johannesburg has better public transportation
🎯 Key Advantages
Mahajanga Wins In:
- Safety (17% better)
- Cost of Living (16% better)
- Air Quality (37% better)
Johannesburg Wins In:
- Overall Score (10% better)
- Healthcare (25% better)
- Internet Speed (24% better)
- Nightlife (41% better)
- Culture (9% better)
- Food Scene (12% better)
💡 Final Recommendation
Choose Johannesburg if you prioritize cost effectiveness and Overall Score. However, Mahajanga 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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