Port Vila vs Byron Bay – Digital Nomad Guide
Trying to decide between Port Vila, Vanuatu and Byron Bay, Australia? Here's a detailed comparison to help digital nomads and remote workers make an informed choice.
💰 Cost of Living
Port Vila has a monthly cost of $2,720, which is 50.2% lower than Byron Bay's $5,460.
🌐 Internet Infrastructure
For internet speeds, Port Vila offers 20 Mbps, while Byron Bay provides 50 Mbps – making Byron Bay's connection 150.0% faster .
☀️ Current Weather
The weather in Port Vila is currently 29°C 🌤️, while Byron Bay is experiencing 26°C 🌤️.
🛡️ Safety Comparison
Port Vila has a safety score of 70.0 , while Byron Bay scores 84.0 .

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Overall
Byron Bay wins
Byron Bay is 13% better
Quality of Life
Byron Bay wins
Byron Bay is 14% better
Byron Bay is 32% better
Cost
Port Vila wins
Port Vila is 29% better
Climate
Infrastructure
Byron Bay wins
Byron Bay is 26% better
Social
Byron Bay wins
Byron Bay is 22% better
Byron Bay is 22% better
Total Cost of Living Comparison
Category | Port Vila | Byron Bay | Difference |
---|---|---|---|
Monthly Total | $2,720 | $5,460 | -50.2% |
Daily Average | $91 | $182 | per day |
Housing
Item | Port Vila | Byron Bay | Difference |
---|---|---|---|
Apartment (1 bedroom) | $450.00 per month | $1,800.00 per month | -75.0% |
Daily Life
Item | Port Vila | Byron Bay | Difference |
---|---|---|---|
Coffee | $2.50 per cup | $4.50 per cup | -44.4% |
Transportation
Item | Port Vila | Byron Bay | Difference |
---|
Utilities
Item | Port Vila | Byron Bay | Difference |
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Final Verdict: Port Vila vs Byron Bay
Byron Bay ranks as the better digital nomad destination, scoring 13.0% higher than Port Vila overall.
💰 Cost Analysis
- Monthly Budget: $2,720 vs $5,460
- Daily Expenses: $91 vs $182
- Port Vila is 50.2% cheaper for digital nomads
🌐 Infrastructure
- Internet Speed: Byron Bay leads with 60% faster connection
- Public Transport: Byron Bay has better public transportation
🎯 Key Advantages
Port Vila Wins In:
- Cost of Living (29% better)
Byron Bay Wins In:
- Overall Score (13% better)
- Safety (14% better)
- Healthcare (32% better)
- Internet Speed (26% better)
- Nightlife (22% better)
- Food Scene (22% better)
💡 Final Recommendation
Choose Byron Bay if you prioritize cost effectiveness and Overall Score. However, Port Vila 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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