Davao City vs Shenzhen – Digital Nomad Guide
Trying to decide between Davao City, Philippines and Shenzhen, China? Here's a detailed comparison to help digital nomads and remote workers make an informed choice.
💰 Cost of Living
Davao City has a monthly cost of $1,750, which is 47.3% lower than Shenzhen's $3,320.
🌐 Internet Infrastructure
For internet speeds, Davao City offers 25 Mbps, while Shenzhen provides 150 Mbps – making Shenzhen's connection 500.0% faster .
☀️ Current Weather
The weather in Davao City is currently 32°C ⛈️, while Shenzhen is experiencing 30°C ⛈️.
🛡️ Safety Comparison
Davao City has a safety score of 64.0 , while Shenzhen scores 76.0 .

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Overall
Davao City wins
Davao City is 10% better
Quality of Life
Shenzhen wins
Shenzhen is 12% better
Cost
Davao City wins
Davao City is 46% better
Climate
Davao City wins
Davao City is 27% better
Infrastructure
Shenzhen wins
Shenzhen is 19% better
Social
Davao City wins
Davao City is 5% better
Total Cost of Living Comparison
Category | Davao City | Shenzhen | Difference |
---|---|---|---|
Monthly Total | $1,750 | $3,320 | -47.3% |
Daily Average | $58 | $111 | per day |
Housing
Item | Davao City | Shenzhen | Difference |
---|---|---|---|
Apartment (1 bedroom) | $250.00 per month | $650.00 per month | -61.5% |
Daily Life
Item | Davao City | Shenzhen | Difference |
---|---|---|---|
Coffee | $1.50 per cup | $2.50 per cup | -40.0% |
Transportation
Item | Davao City | Shenzhen | Difference |
---|
Utilities
Item | Davao City | Shenzhen | Difference |
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Final Verdict: Davao City vs Shenzhen
Davao City ranks as the better digital nomad destination, scoring 10.0% higher than Shenzhen overall.
💰 Cost Analysis
- Monthly Budget: $1,750 vs $3,320
- Daily Expenses: $58 vs $111
- Davao City is 47.3% cheaper for digital nomads
🌐 Infrastructure
- Internet Speed: Shenzhen leads with 83% faster connection
- Public Transport: Shenzhen has better public transportation
🎯 Key Advantages
Davao City Wins In:
- Overall Score (10% better)
- Cost of Living (46% better)
- Air Quality (27% better)
- Food Scene (5% better)
Shenzhen Wins In:
- Safety (12% better)
- Internet Speed (19% better)
💡 Final Recommendation
Choose Davao City if you prioritize better quality of life metrics and Overall Score. However, Shenzhen 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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