Dar es Salaam vs Johannesburg – Digital Nomad Guide
Trying to decide between Dar es Salaam, Tanzania and Johannesburg, South Africa? Here's a detailed comparison to help digital nomads and remote workers make an informed choice.
💰 Cost of Living
Dar es Salaam has a monthly cost of $2,620, which is 5.8% lower than Johannesburg's $2,780.
🌐 Internet Infrastructure
For internet speeds, Dar es Salaam offers 30 Mbps, while Johannesburg provides 30 Mbps – making Johannesburg's connection 0.0% faster .
☀️ Current Weather
The weather in Dar es Salaam is currently 29°C 🌧️, while Johannesburg is experiencing 18°C 🌤️.
🛡️ Safety Comparison
Dar es Salaam has a safety score of 51.0 , while Johannesburg scores 38.0 .

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Overall
Johannesburg wins
Johannesburg is 5% better
Quality of Life
Johannesburg wins
Dar es Salaam is 13% better
Johannesburg is 20% better
Cost
Dar es Salaam wins
Dar es Salaam is 10% better
Climate
Dar es Salaam wins
Dar es Salaam is 10% better
Infrastructure
Johannesburg wins
Johannesburg is 15% better
Social
Johannesburg wins
Johannesburg is 18% better
Johannesburg is 6% better
Total Cost of Living Comparison
Category | Dar es Salaam | Johannesburg | Difference |
---|---|---|---|
Monthly Total | $2,620 | $2,780 | -5.8% |
Daily Average | $87 | $93 | per day |
Housing
Item | Dar es Salaam | Johannesburg | Difference |
---|---|---|---|
Apartment (1 bedroom) | $350.00 per month | $450.00 per month | -22.2% |
Daily Life
Item | Dar es Salaam | Johannesburg | Difference |
---|---|---|---|
Coffee | $1.20 per cup | $1.50 per cup | -20.0% |
Transportation
Item | Dar es Salaam | Johannesburg | Difference |
---|
Utilities
Item | Dar es Salaam | Johannesburg | Difference |
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Final Verdict: Dar es Salaam vs Johannesburg
Johannesburg ranks as the better digital nomad destination, scoring 5.0% higher than Dar es Salaam overall.
💰 Cost Analysis
- Monthly Budget: $2,620 vs $2,780
- Daily Expenses: $87 vs $93
- Dar es Salaam is 5.8% cheaper for digital nomads
🌐 Infrastructure
- Internet Speed: Johannesburg leads with 0% faster connection
- Public Transport: Johannesburg has better public transportation
🎯 Key Advantages
Dar es Salaam Wins In:
- Safety (13% better)
- Cost of Living (10% better)
- Air Quality (10% better)
Johannesburg Wins In:
- Overall Score (5% better)
- Healthcare (20% better)
- Internet Speed (15% better)
- Nightlife (18% better)
- Food Scene (6% better)
💡 Final Recommendation
Choose Johannesburg if you prioritize cost effectiveness and Overall Score. However, Dar es Salaam 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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