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Johannesburg vs Lubumbashi – Digital Nomad Guide

Trying to decide between Johannesburg, South Africa and Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of the Congo? Here's a detailed comparison to help digital nomads and remote workers make an informed choice.

💰 Cost of Living

Johannesburg has a monthly cost of $2,780, which is 24.1% higher than Lubumbashi's $2,240.

🌐 Internet Infrastructure

For internet speeds, Johannesburg offers 30 Mbps, while Lubumbashi provides 10 Mbps making Johannesburg's connection 200.0% faster .

☀️ Current Weather

The weather in Johannesburg is currently 21°C 🌤️, while Lubumbashi is experiencing 27°C 🌤️.

🛡️ Safety Comparison

Johannesburg has a safety score of 38.0 , while Lubumbashi scores 30.0 .

Costs
$2,780
per month
Internet
30
Mbps
Weather
21° 🌤️
High today
Costs
$2,240
per month
Internet
10
Mbps
Weather
27° 🌤️
High today
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Overall Johannesburg wins

61.0
Overall Score
43.0

Johannesburg is 18% better

Quality of Life Johannesburg wins

38.0
Safety
30.0

Johannesburg is 8% better

67.0
Healthcare
32.0

Johannesburg is 35% better

Cost Lubumbashi wins

71.0
Cost of Living
81.0

Lubumbashi is 10% better

Climate Johannesburg wins

40.0
Air Quality
35.0

Johannesburg is 5% better

Infrastructure Johannesburg wins

67.0
Internet Speed
38.0

Johannesburg is 29% better

Social Johannesburg wins

76.0
Nightlife
40.0

Johannesburg is 36% better

80.0
Culture
68.0

Johannesburg is 12% better

79.0
Food Scene
55.0

Johannesburg is 24% better

Total Cost of Living Comparison

Category Johannesburg Lubumbashi Difference
Monthly Total $2,780 $2,240 +24.1%
Daily Average $93 $75 per day

Housing

Item Johannesburg Lubumbashi Difference
Apartment (1 bedroom) $450.00 per month $250.00 per month +80.0%

Daily Life

Item Johannesburg Lubumbashi Difference
Coffee $1.50 per cup $0.80 per cup +87.5%

Transportation

Item Johannesburg Lubumbashi Difference

Utilities

Item Johannesburg Lubumbashi Difference
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Final Verdict: Johannesburg vs Lubumbashi

Johannesburg ranks as the better digital nomad destination, scoring 18.0% higher than Lubumbashi overall.

💰 Cost Analysis

  • Monthly Budget: $2,780 vs $2,240
  • Daily Expenses: $93 vs $75
  • Lubumbashi is 24.1% cheaper for digital nomads

🌐 Infrastructure

  • Internet Speed: Johannesburg leads with 200% faster connection
  • Public Transport: Lubumbashi has better public transportation

🎯 Key Advantages

Johannesburg Wins In:
  • Overall Score (18% better)
  • Safety (8% better)
  • Healthcare (35% better)
  • Air Quality (5% better)
  • Internet Speed (29% better)
  • Nightlife (36% better)
  • Culture (12% better)
  • Food Scene (24% better)
Lubumbashi Wins In:
  • Cost of Living (10% better)

💡 Final Recommendation

Choose Johannesburg if you prioritize better quality of life metrics and Overall Score. However, Lubumbashi 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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