Nosy Be vs Johannesburg – Digital Nomad Guide
Trying to decide between Nosy Be, Madagascar and Johannesburg, South Africa? Here's a detailed comparison to help digital nomads and remote workers make an informed choice.
💰 Cost of Living
Nosy Be has a monthly cost of $1,665, which is 40.1% lower than Johannesburg's $2,780.
🌐 Internet Infrastructure
For internet speeds, Nosy Be offers 30 Mbps, while Johannesburg provides 30 Mbps – making Johannesburg's connection 0.0% faster .
☀️ Current Weather
The weather in Nosy Be is currently 31°C 🌤️, while Johannesburg is experiencing 20°C 🌫️.
🛡️ Safety Comparison
Nosy Be has a safety score of 50.0 , while Johannesburg scores 39.0 .
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Overall
Johannesburg wins
Johannesburg is 11% better
Quality of Life
Johannesburg wins
Nosy Be is 11% better
Johannesburg is 33% better
Cost
Nosy Be wins
Nosy Be is 16% better
Climate
Nosy Be wins
Nosy Be is 45% better
Infrastructure
Johannesburg wins
Johannesburg is 22% better
Social
Johannesburg wins
Johannesburg is 41% better
Johannesburg is 11% better
Total Cost of Living Comparison
Category | Nosy Be | Johannesburg | Difference |
---|---|---|---|
Monthly Total | $1,665 | $2,780 | -40.1% |
Daily Average | $56 | $93 | per day |
Housing
Item | Nosy Be | Johannesburg | Difference |
---|---|---|---|
Apartment (1 bedroom) | $250.00 per month | $450.00 per month | -44.4% |
Daily Life
Item | Nosy Be | Johannesburg | Difference |
---|---|---|---|
Coffee | $1.20 per cup | $1.50 per cup | -20.0% |
Transportation
Item | Nosy Be | Johannesburg | Difference |
---|
Utilities
Item | Nosy Be | Johannesburg | Difference |
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Final Verdict: Nosy Be vs Johannesburg
Johannesburg ranks as the better digital nomad destination, scoring 11.0% higher than Nosy Be overall.
💰 Cost Analysis
- Monthly Budget: $1,665 vs $2,780
- Daily Expenses: $56 vs $93
- Nosy Be is 40.1% cheaper for digital nomads
🌐 Infrastructure
- Internet Speed: Johannesburg leads with 0% faster connection
- Public Transport: Johannesburg has better public transportation
🎯 Key Advantages
Nosy Be Wins In:
- Safety (11% better)
- Cost of Living (16% better)
- Air Quality (45% better)
Johannesburg Wins In:
- Overall Score (11% better)
- Healthcare (33% better)
- Internet Speed (22% better)
- Nightlife (41% better)
- Food Scene (11% better)
💡 Final Recommendation
Choose Johannesburg if you prioritize cost effectiveness and Overall Score. However, Nosy Be 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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