Madang vs Byron Bay – Digital Nomad Guide
Trying to decide between Madang, 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
Madang has a monthly cost of $2,280, which is 58.2% lower than Byron Bay's $5,460.
🌐 Internet Infrastructure
For internet speeds, Madang offers 15 Mbps, while Byron Bay provides 50 Mbps – making Byron Bay's connection 233.3% faster .
☀️ Current Weather
The weather in Madang is currently 30°C ⛈️, while Byron Bay is experiencing 22°C 🌧️.
🛡️ Safety Comparison
Madang has a safety score of 40.0 , while Byron Bay scores 86.0 .
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Overall
Byron Bay wins
Byron Bay is 23% better
Quality of Life
Byron Bay wins
Byron Bay is 46% better
Byron Bay is 45% better
Cost
Madang wins
Madang is 39% better
Climate
Byron Bay wins
Byron Bay is 9% better
Infrastructure
Byron Bay wins
Byron Bay is 43% better
Social
Byron Bay wins
Byron Bay is 16% better
Madang is 5% better
Byron Bay is 17% better
Total Cost of Living Comparison
| Category | Madang | Byron Bay | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly Total | $2,280 | $5,460 | -58.2% |
| Daily Average | $76 | $182 | per day |
Housing
| Item | Madang | Byron Bay | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apartment (1 bedroom) | $350.00 per month | $1,800.00 per month | -80.6% |
Daily Life
| Item | Madang | Byron Bay | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coffee | $1.50 per cup | $4.50 per cup | -66.7% |
Transportation
| Item | Madang | Byron Bay | Difference |
|---|
Utilities
| Item | Madang | Byron Bay | Difference |
|---|
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Final Verdict: Madang vs Byron Bay
Byron Bay ranks as the better digital nomad destination, scoring 23.0% higher than Madang overall.
💰 Cost Analysis
- Monthly Budget: $2,280 vs $5,460
- Daily Expenses: $76 vs $182
- Madang is 58.2% cheaper for digital nomads
🌐 Infrastructure
- Internet Speed: Byron Bay leads with 70% faster connection
- Public Transport: Byron Bay has better public transportation
🎯 Key Advantages
Madang Wins In:
- Cost of Living (39% better)
- Culture (5% better)
Byron Bay Wins In:
- Overall Score (23% better)
- Safety (46% better)
- Healthcare (45% better)
- Air Quality (9% better)
- Internet Speed (43% better)
- Nightlife (16% better)
- Food Scene (17% better)
💡 Final Recommendation
Choose Byron Bay if you prioritize cost effectiveness and Overall Score. However, Madang 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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