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Surat Thani vs Kunming – Digital Nomad Guide

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

💰 Cost of Living

Surat Thani has a monthly cost of $1,750, which is 13.4% lower than Kunming's $2,020.

🌐 Internet Infrastructure

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

☀️ Current Weather

The weather in Surat Thani is currently 33°C ⛈️, while Kunming is experiencing 28°C 🌤️.

🛡️ Safety Comparison

Surat Thani has a safety score of 72.0 , while Kunming scores 79.0 .

Costs
$1,750
per month
Internet
30
Mbps
Weather
33° ⛈️
High today
Costs
$2,020
per month
Internet
50
Mbps
Weather
28° 🌤️
High today
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Overall Surat Thani wins

64.0
Overall Score
59.0

Surat Thani is 5% better

Quality of Life Kunming wins

72.0
Safety
79.0

Kunming is 7% better

69.0
Healthcare
69.0

Cost Surat Thani wins

87.0
Cost of Living
71.0

Surat Thani is 16% better

Climate Surat Thani wins

71.0
Air Quality
50.0

Surat Thani is 21% better

Infrastructure Surat Thani wins

69.0
Internet Speed
65.0

Social Kunming wins

42.0
Nightlife
51.0

Kunming is 9% better

74.0
Culture
78.0
79.0
Food Scene
79.0

Total Cost of Living Comparison

Category Surat Thani Kunming Difference
Monthly Total $1,750 $2,020 -13.4%
Daily Average $58 $67 per day

Housing

Item Surat Thani Kunming Difference
Apartment (1 bedroom) $180.00 per month $320.00 per month -43.8%

Daily Life

Item Surat Thani Kunming Difference
Coffee $1.20 per cup $1.50 per cup -20.0%

Transportation

Item Surat Thani Kunming Difference

Utilities

Item Surat Thani Kunming Difference
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Final Verdict: Surat Thani vs Kunming

Surat Thani ranks as the better digital nomad destination, scoring 5.0% higher than Kunming overall.

💰 Cost Analysis

  • Monthly Budget: $1,750 vs $2,020
  • Daily Expenses: $58 vs $67
  • Surat Thani is 13.4% cheaper for digital nomads

🌐 Infrastructure

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

🎯 Key Advantages

Surat Thani Wins In:
  • Overall Score (5% better)
  • Cost of Living (16% better)
  • Air Quality (21% better)
Kunming Wins In:
  • Safety (7% better)
  • Nightlife (9% better)

💡 Final Recommendation

Choose Surat Thani 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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