Goroka vs Byron Bay – Digital Nomad Guide
Trying to decide between Goroka, Papua New Guinea and Byron Bay, Australia? Here's a detailed comparison to help digital nomads and remote workers make an informed choice.
💰 Cost of Living
Goroka has a monthly cost of $1,840, which is 66.3% lower than Byron Bay's $5,460.
🌐 Internet Infrastructure
For internet speeds, Goroka offers 20 Mbps, while Byron Bay provides 50 Mbps – making Byron Bay's connection 150.0% faster .
☀️ Current Weather
The weather in Goroka is currently 24°C 🌧️, while Byron Bay is experiencing 23°C 🌤️.
🛡️ Safety Comparison
Goroka has a safety score of 40.0 , while Byron Bay scores 86.0 .
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Overall
Byron Bay wins
Byron Bay is 24% better
Quality of Life
Byron Bay wins
Byron Bay is 46% better
Byron Bay is 40% better
Cost
Goroka wins
Goroka is 39% better
Climate
Byron Bay wins
Byron Bay is 7% better
Infrastructure
Byron Bay wins
Byron Bay is 43% better
Social
Byron Bay wins
Byron Bay is 21% better
Byron Bay is 17% better
Total Cost of Living Comparison
Category | Goroka | Byron Bay | Difference |
---|---|---|---|
Monthly Total | $1,840 | $5,460 | -66.3% |
Daily Average | $61 | $182 | per day |
Housing
Item | Goroka | Byron Bay | Difference |
---|---|---|---|
Apartment (1 bedroom) | $180.00 per month | $1,800.00 per month | -90.0% |
Daily Life
Item | Goroka | Byron Bay | Difference |
---|---|---|---|
Coffee | $1.20 per cup | $4.50 per cup | -73.3% |
Transportation
Item | Goroka | Byron Bay | Difference |
---|
Utilities
Item | Goroka | Byron Bay | Difference |
---|
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Final Verdict: Goroka vs Byron Bay
Byron Bay ranks as the better digital nomad destination, scoring 24.0% higher than Goroka overall.
💰 Cost Analysis
- Monthly Budget: $1,840 vs $5,460
- Daily Expenses: $61 vs $182
- Goroka is 66.3% cheaper for digital nomads
🌐 Infrastructure
- Internet Speed: Byron Bay leads with 60% faster connection
- Public Transport: Byron Bay has better public transportation
🎯 Key Advantages
Goroka Wins In:
- Cost of Living (39% better)
Byron Bay Wins In:
- Overall Score (24% better)
- Safety (46% better)
- Healthcare (40% better)
- Air Quality (7% better)
- Internet Speed (43% better)
- Nightlife (21% better)
- Food Scene (17% better)
💡 Final Recommendation
Choose Byron Bay if you prioritize cost effectiveness and Overall Score. However, Goroka 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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