Penang vs Bandung – Digital Nomad Guide
Trying to decide between Penang, Malaysia and Bandung, Indonesia? Here's a detailed comparison to help digital nomads and remote workers make an informed choice.
💰 Cost of Living
Penang has a monthly cost of $2,280, which is 27.4% higher than Bandung's $1,790.
🌐 Internet Infrastructure
For internet speeds, Penang offers 25 Mbps, while Bandung provides 30 Mbps – making Bandung's connection 20.0% faster .
☀️ Current Weather
The weather in Penang is currently 26°C 🌧️, while Bandung is experiencing 29°C ⛈️.
🛡️ Safety Comparison
Penang has a safety score of 79.0 , while Bandung scores 75.0 .
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Overall
Penang wins
Quality of Life
Penang wins
Penang is 9% better
Cost
Climate
Penang wins
Penang is 7% better
Infrastructure
Social
Penang wins
Total Cost of Living Comparison
| Category | Penang | Bandung | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly Total | $2,280 | $1,790 | +27.4% |
| Daily Average | $76 | $60 | per day |
Housing
| Item | Penang | Bandung | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apartment (1 bedroom) | $350.00 per month | $220.00 per month | +59.1% |
Daily Life
| Item | Penang | Bandung | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coffee | $1.50 per cup | $1.50 per cup | 0.0% |
Transportation
| Item | Penang | Bandung | Difference |
|---|
Utilities
| Item | Penang | Bandung | Difference |
|---|
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Final Verdict: Penang vs Bandung
Penang ranks as the better digital nomad destination, scoring 3.0% higher than Bandung overall.
💰 Cost Analysis
- Monthly Budget: $2,280 vs $1,790
- Daily Expenses: $76 vs $60
- Bandung is 27.4% cheaper for digital nomads
🌐 Infrastructure
- Internet Speed: Bandung leads with 17% faster connection
- Public Transport: Bandung has better public transportation
🎯 Key Advantages
Penang Wins In:
- Healthcare (9% better)
- Air Quality (7% better)
Bandung Wins In:
- No significant advantages found
💡 Final Recommendation
Choose Penang if you prioritize better quality of life metrics and Healthcare. However, Bandung might be preferable if Healthcare 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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