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Khiva vs Shymkent – Digital Nomad Guide

Trying to decide between Khiva, Uzbekistan and Shymkent, Kazakhstan? Here's a detailed comparison to help digital nomads and remote workers make an informed choice.

💰 Cost of Living

Khiva has a monthly cost of $1,035, which is 39.5% lower than Shymkent's $1,710.

🌐 Internet Infrastructure

For internet speeds, Khiva offers 20 Mbps, while Shymkent provides 30 Mbps making Shymkent's connection 50.0% faster .

☀️ Current Weather

The weather in Khiva is currently 37°C 🌤️, while Shymkent is experiencing 34°C 🌤️.

🛡️ Safety Comparison

Khiva has a safety score of 75.0 , while Shymkent scores 70.0 .

Costs
$1,035
per month
Internet
20
Mbps
Weather
37° 🌤️
High today
Costs
$1,710
per month
Internet
30
Mbps
Weather
34° 🌤️
High today
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Overall Shymkent wins

53.0
Overall Score
59.0

Shymkent is 6% better

Quality of Life Shymkent wins

75.0
Safety
70.0

Khiva is 5% better

45.0
Healthcare
57.0

Shymkent is 12% better

Cost

87.0
Cost of Living
87.0

Climate Khiva wins

72.0
Air Quality
49.0

Khiva is 23% better

Infrastructure Shymkent wins

55.0
Internet Speed
70.0

Shymkent is 15% better

Social

25.0
Nightlife
43.0

Shymkent is 18% better

90.0
Culture
69.0

Khiva is 21% better

75.0
Food Scene
73.0

Total Cost of Living Comparison

Category Khiva Shymkent Difference
Monthly Total $1,035 $1,710 -39.5%
Daily Average $35 $57 per day

Housing

Item Khiva Shymkent Difference
Apartment (1 bedroom) $120.00 per month $180.00 per month -33.3%

Daily Life

Item Khiva Shymkent Difference
Coffee $0.80 per cup $1.20 per cup -33.3%
Beer $1.20 per pint $1.50 per pint -20.0%
Meal (Inexpensive) $2.50 per meal $3.00 per meal -16.7%

Transportation

Item Khiva Shymkent Difference

Utilities

Item Khiva Shymkent Difference
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Final Verdict: Khiva vs Shymkent

Shymkent ranks as the better digital nomad destination, scoring 6.0% higher than Khiva overall.

💰 Cost Analysis

  • Monthly Budget: $1,035 vs $1,710
  • Daily Expenses: $35 vs $57
  • Khiva is 39.5% cheaper for digital nomads

🌐 Infrastructure

  • Internet Speed: Shymkent leads with 33% faster connection
  • Public Transport: Shymkent has better public transportation

🎯 Key Advantages

Khiva Wins In:
  • Safety (5% better)
  • Air Quality (23% better)
  • Culture (21% better)
Shymkent Wins In:
  • Overall Score (6% better)
  • Healthcare (12% better)
  • Internet Speed (15% better)
  • Nightlife (18% better)

💡 Final Recommendation

Choose Shymkent if you prioritize cost effectiveness and Overall Score. However, Khiva 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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