Johannesburg
South Africa 🇿🇦
View city details →Lubumbashi
Democratic Republic of the Congo 🇨🇩
View city details →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 .

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Overall
Johannesburg wins
Johannesburg is 18% better
Quality of Life
Johannesburg wins
Johannesburg is 8% better
Johannesburg is 35% better
Cost
Lubumbashi wins
Lubumbashi is 10% better
Climate
Johannesburg wins
Johannesburg is 5% better
Infrastructure
Johannesburg wins
Johannesburg is 29% better
Social
Johannesburg wins
Johannesburg is 36% better
Johannesburg is 12% better
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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