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Lilongwe vs Johannesburg – Digital Nomad Guide
Trying to decide between Lilongwe, Malawi and Johannesburg, South Africa? Here's a detailed comparison to help digital nomads and remote workers make an informed choice.
💰 Cost of Living
Lilongwe has a monthly cost of $2,180, which is 21.6% lower than Johannesburg's $2,780.
🌐 Internet Infrastructure
For internet speeds, Lilongwe offers 20 Mbps, while Johannesburg provides 30 Mbps – making Johannesburg's connection 50.0% faster .
☀️ Current Weather
The weather in Lilongwe is currently 22°C 🌤️, while Johannesburg is experiencing 16°C 🌫️.
🛡️ Safety Comparison
Lilongwe has a safety score of 58.0 , while Johannesburg scores 38.0 .
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Overall
Johannesburg wins
Johannesburg is 11% better
Quality of Life
Johannesburg wins
Lilongwe is 20% better
Johannesburg is 25% better
Cost
Lilongwe wins
Lilongwe is 10% better
Climate
Lilongwe wins
Lilongwe is 25% better
Infrastructure
Johannesburg wins
Johannesburg is 20% better
Social
Johannesburg wins
Johannesburg is 34% better
Johannesburg is 10% better
Johannesburg is 12% better
Total Cost of Living Comparison
| Category | Lilongwe | Johannesburg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly Total | $2,180 | $2,780 | -21.6% |
| Daily Average | $73 | $93 | per day |
Housing
| Item | Lilongwe | Johannesburg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apartment (1 bedroom) | $180.00 per month | $450.00 per month | -60.0% |
Daily Life
| Item | Lilongwe | Johannesburg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coffee | $1.20 per cup | $1.50 per cup | -20.0% |
Transportation
| Item | Lilongwe | Johannesburg | Difference |
|---|
Utilities
| Item | Lilongwe | Johannesburg | Difference |
|---|
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Final Verdict: Lilongwe vs Johannesburg
Johannesburg ranks as the better digital nomad destination, scoring 11.0% higher than Lilongwe overall.
💰 Cost Analysis
- Monthly Budget: $2,180 vs $2,780
- Daily Expenses: $73 vs $93
- Lilongwe is 21.6% cheaper for digital nomads
🌐 Infrastructure
- Internet Speed: Johannesburg leads with 33% faster connection
- Public Transport: Johannesburg has better public transportation
🎯 Key Advantages
Lilongwe Wins In:
- Safety (20% better)
- Cost of Living (10% better)
- Air Quality (25% better)
Johannesburg Wins In:
- Overall Score (11% better)
- Healthcare (25% better)
- Internet Speed (20% better)
- Nightlife (34% better)
- Culture (10% better)
- Food Scene (12% better)
💡 Final Recommendation
Choose Johannesburg if you prioritize cost effectiveness and Overall Score. However, Lilongwe 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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