Rabaul vs Byron Bay – Digital Nomad Guide
Trying to decide between Rabaul, 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
Rabaul has a monthly cost of $2,230, which is 59.2% lower than Byron Bay's $5,460.
🌐 Internet Infrastructure
For internet speeds, Rabaul offers 8 Mbps, while Byron Bay provides 50 Mbps – making Byron Bay's connection 525.0% faster .
☀️ Current Weather
The weather in Rabaul is currently 32°C 🌫️, while Byron Bay is experiencing 22°C 🌧️.
🛡️ Safety Comparison
Rabaul has a safety score of 40.0 , while Byron Bay scores 86.0 .
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Overall
Byron Bay wins
Byron Bay is 25% better
Quality of Life
Byron Bay wins
Byron Bay is 46% better
Byron Bay is 40% better
Cost
Rabaul wins
Rabaul is 29% better
Climate
Infrastructure
Byron Bay wins
Byron Bay is 47% better
Social
Byron Bay wins
Byron Bay is 20% better
Rabaul is 9% better
Byron Bay is 22% better
Total Cost of Living Comparison
Category | Rabaul | Byron Bay | Difference |
---|---|---|---|
Monthly Total | $2,230 | $5,460 | -59.2% |
Daily Average | $74 | $182 | per day |
Housing
Item | Rabaul | Byron Bay | Difference |
---|---|---|---|
Apartment (1 bedroom) | $250.00 per month | $1,800.00 per month | -86.1% |
Daily Life
Item | Rabaul | Byron Bay | Difference |
---|---|---|---|
Coffee | $1.50 per cup | $4.50 per cup | -66.7% |
Transportation
Item | Rabaul | Byron Bay | Difference |
---|
Utilities
Item | Rabaul | Byron Bay | Difference |
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Final Verdict: Rabaul vs Byron Bay
Byron Bay ranks as the better digital nomad destination, scoring 25.0% higher than Rabaul overall.
💰 Cost Analysis
- Monthly Budget: $2,230 vs $5,460
- Daily Expenses: $74 vs $182
- Rabaul is 59.2% cheaper for digital nomads
🌐 Infrastructure
- Internet Speed: Byron Bay leads with 84% faster connection
- Public Transport: Byron Bay has better public transportation
🎯 Key Advantages
Rabaul Wins In:
- Cost of Living (29% better)
- Culture (9% better)
Byron Bay Wins In:
- Overall Score (25% better)
- Safety (46% better)
- Healthcare (40% better)
- Internet Speed (47% better)
- Nightlife (20% better)
- Food Scene (22% better)
💡 Final Recommendation
Choose Byron Bay if you prioritize cost effectiveness and Overall Score. However, Rabaul 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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