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Phuket vs Kunming – Digital Nomad Guide

Trying to decide between Phuket, Thailand and Kunming, China? Here's a detailed comparison to help digital nomads and remote workers make an informed choice.

💰 Cost of Living

Phuket has a monthly cost of $2,310, which is 14.4% higher than Kunming's $2,020.

🌐 Internet Infrastructure

For internet speeds, Phuket offers 30 Mbps, while Kunming provides 50 Mbps making Kunming's connection 66.7% faster .

☀️ Current Weather

The weather in Phuket is currently 29°C ⛈️, while Kunming is experiencing 27°C 🌤️.

🛡️ Safety Comparison

Phuket has a safety score of 78.0 , while Kunming scores 78.0 .

Costs
$2,310
per month
Internet
30
Mbps
Weather
29° ⛈️
High today
Costs
$2,020
per month
Internet
50
Mbps
Weather
27° 🌤️
High today
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Overall Phuket wins

75.0
Overall Score
62.0

Phuket is 13% better

Quality of Life Phuket wins

78.0
Safety
78.0
81.0
Healthcare
69.0

Phuket is 12% better

Cost Phuket wins

87.0
Cost of Living
81.0

Phuket is 6% better

Climate

60.0
Air Quality
60.0

Infrastructure Phuket wins

78.0
Internet Speed
65.0

Phuket is 13% better

Social Phuket wins

78.0
Nightlife
51.0

Phuket is 27% better

84.0
Culture
83.0
90.0
Food Scene
84.0

Phuket is 6% better

Total Cost of Living Comparison

Category Phuket Kunming Difference
Monthly Total $2,310 $2,020 +14.4%
Daily Average $77 $67 per day

Housing

Item Phuket Kunming Difference
Apartment (1 bedroom) $350.00 per month $320.00 per month +9.4%

Daily Life

Item Phuket Kunming Difference
Coffee $1.50 per cup $1.50 per cup 0.0%

Transportation

Item Phuket Kunming Difference

Utilities

Item Phuket Kunming Difference
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Final Verdict: Phuket vs Kunming

Phuket ranks as the better digital nomad destination, scoring 13.0% higher than Kunming overall.

💰 Cost Analysis

  • Monthly Budget: $2,310 vs $2,020
  • Daily Expenses: $77 vs $67
  • Kunming is 14.4% cheaper for digital nomads

🌐 Infrastructure

  • Internet Speed: Kunming leads with 40% faster connection
  • Public Transport: Kunming has better public transportation

🎯 Key Advantages

Phuket Wins In:
  • Overall Score (13% better)
  • Healthcare (12% better)
  • Cost of Living (6% better)
  • Internet Speed (13% better)
  • Nightlife (27% better)
  • Food Scene (6% better)
Kunming Wins In:
  • No significant advantages found

💡 Final Recommendation

Choose Phuket if you prioritize better quality of life metrics and Overall Score. However, Kunming 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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