Dili vs Surabaya – Digital Nomad Guide
Trying to decide between Dili, East Timor and Surabaya, Indonesia? Here's a detailed comparison to help digital nomads and remote workers make an informed choice.
💰 Cost of Living
Dili has a monthly cost of $1,890, which is 9.1% lower than Surabaya's $2,080.
🌐 Internet Infrastructure
For internet speeds, Dili offers 25 Mbps, while Surabaya provides 50 Mbps – making Surabaya's connection 100.0% faster .
☀️ Current Weather
The weather in Dili is currently 30°C ⛈️, while Surabaya is experiencing 33°C 🌧️.
🛡️ Safety Comparison
Dili has a safety score of 60.0 , while Surabaya scores 74.0 .
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Overall
Surabaya wins
Surabaya is 19% better
Quality of Life
Surabaya wins
Surabaya is 14% better
Surabaya is 32% better
Cost
Surabaya wins
Surabaya is 9% better
Climate
Dili wins
Dili is 13% better
Infrastructure
Surabaya wins
Surabaya is 32% better
Social
Surabaya wins
Surabaya is 24% better
Surabaya is 21% better
Total Cost of Living Comparison
| Category | Dili | Surabaya | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly Total | $1,890 | $2,080 | -9.1% |
| Daily Average | $63 | $69 | per day |
Housing
| Item | Dili | Surabaya | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apartment (1 bedroom) | $350.00 per month | $250.00 per month | +40.0% |
Daily Life
| Item | Dili | Surabaya | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coffee | $1.50 per cup | $1.20 per cup | +25.0% |
Transportation
| Item | Dili | Surabaya | Difference |
|---|
Utilities
| Item | Dili | Surabaya | Difference |
|---|
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Final Verdict: Dili vs Surabaya
Surabaya ranks as the better digital nomad destination, scoring 19.0% higher than Dili overall.
💰 Cost Analysis
- Monthly Budget: $1,890 vs $2,080
- Daily Expenses: $63 vs $69
- Dili is 9.1% cheaper for digital nomads
🌐 Infrastructure
- Internet Speed: Surabaya leads with 50% faster connection
- Public Transport: Surabaya has better public transportation
🎯 Key Advantages
Dili Wins In:
- Air Quality (13% better)
Surabaya Wins In:
- Overall Score (19% better)
- Safety (14% better)
- Healthcare (32% better)
- Cost of Living (9% better)
- Internet Speed (32% better)
- Nightlife (24% better)
- Food Scene (21% better)
💡 Final Recommendation
Choose Surabaya if you prioritize cost effectiveness and Overall Score. However, Dili 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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