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Mzuzu vs Johannesburg – Digital Nomad Guide

Trying to decide between Mzuzu, Malawi and Johannesburg, South Africa? Here's a detailed comparison to help digital nomads and remote workers make an informed choice.

💰 Cost of Living

Mzuzu has a monthly cost of $1,660, which is 40.3% lower than Johannesburg's $2,780.

🌐 Internet Infrastructure

For internet speeds, Mzuzu offers 10 Mbps, while Johannesburg provides 30 Mbps making Johannesburg's connection 200.0% faster .

☀️ Current Weather

The weather in Mzuzu is currently 18°C 🌧️, while Johannesburg is experiencing 18°C 🌫️.

🛡️ Safety Comparison

Mzuzu has a safety score of 55.0 , while Johannesburg scores 38.0 .

Costs
$1,660
per month
Internet
10
Mbps
Weather
18° 🌧️
High today
Costs
$2,780
per month
Internet
30
Mbps
Weather
18° 🌫️
High today
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Overall Johannesburg wins

51.0
Overall Score
61.0

Johannesburg is 10% better

Quality of Life Johannesburg wins

55.0
Safety
38.0

Mzuzu is 17% better

42.0
Healthcare
67.0

Johannesburg is 25% better

Cost Mzuzu wins

87.0
Cost of Living
71.0

Mzuzu is 16% better

Climate Mzuzu wins

81.0
Air Quality
40.0

Mzuzu is 41% better

Infrastructure Johannesburg wins

47.0
Internet Speed
67.0

Johannesburg is 20% better

Social Johannesburg wins

30.0
Nightlife
76.0

Johannesburg is 46% better

75.0
Culture
80.0

Johannesburg is 5% better

65.0
Food Scene
79.0

Johannesburg is 14% better

Total Cost of Living Comparison

Category Mzuzu Johannesburg Difference
Monthly Total $1,660 $2,780 -40.3%
Daily Average $55 $93 per day

Housing

Item Mzuzu Johannesburg Difference
Apartment (1 bedroom) $120.00 per month $450.00 per month -73.3%

Daily Life

Item Mzuzu Johannesburg Difference
Coffee $0.80 per cup $1.50 per cup -46.7%

Transportation

Item Mzuzu Johannesburg Difference

Utilities

Item Mzuzu Johannesburg Difference
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Final Verdict: Mzuzu vs Johannesburg

Johannesburg ranks as the better digital nomad destination, scoring 10.0% higher than Mzuzu overall.

💰 Cost Analysis

  • Monthly Budget: $1,660 vs $2,780
  • Daily Expenses: $55 vs $93
  • Mzuzu is 40.3% cheaper for digital nomads

🌐 Infrastructure

  • Internet Speed: Johannesburg leads with 67% faster connection
  • Public Transport: Johannesburg has better public transportation

🎯 Key Advantages

Mzuzu Wins In:
  • Safety (17% better)
  • Cost of Living (16% better)
  • Air Quality (41% better)
Johannesburg Wins In:
  • Overall Score (10% better)
  • Healthcare (25% better)
  • Internet Speed (20% better)
  • Nightlife (46% better)
  • Culture (5% better)
  • Food Scene (14% better)

💡 Final Recommendation

Choose Johannesburg if you prioritize cost effectiveness and Overall Score. However, Mzuzu 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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