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Livingstone vs Johannesburg – Digital Nomad Guide
Trying to decide between Livingstone, Zambia and Johannesburg, South Africa? Here's a detailed comparison to help digital nomads and remote workers make an informed choice.
💰 Cost of Living
Livingstone has a monthly cost of $2,230, which is 19.8% lower than Johannesburg's $2,780.
🌐 Internet Infrastructure
For internet speeds, Livingstone offers 20 Mbps, while Johannesburg provides 30 Mbps – making Johannesburg's connection 50.0% faster .
☀️ Current Weather
The weather in Livingstone is currently 21°C 🌤️, while Johannesburg is experiencing 18°C 🌤️.
🛡️ Safety Comparison
Livingstone has a safety score of 60.0 , while Johannesburg scores 38.0 .
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Overall
Johannesburg wins
Johannesburg is 11% better
Quality of Life
Livingstone is 22% better
Johannesburg is 20% better
Cost
Livingstone wins
Livingstone is 7% better
Climate
Livingstone wins
Livingstone is 32% better
Infrastructure
Johannesburg wins
Johannesburg is 20% better
Social
Johannesburg wins
Johannesburg is 42% better
Johannesburg is 14% better
Johannesburg is 24% better
Total Cost of Living Comparison
| Category | Livingstone | Johannesburg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly Total | $2,230 | $2,780 | -19.8% |
| Daily Average | $74 | $93 | per day |
Housing
| Item | Livingstone | Johannesburg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apartment (1 bedroom) | $350.00 per month | $450.00 per month | -22.2% |
Daily Life
| Item | Livingstone | Johannesburg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coffee | $1.50 per cup | $1.50 per cup | 0.0% |
Transportation
| Item | Livingstone | Johannesburg | Difference |
|---|
Utilities
| Item | Livingstone | Johannesburg | Difference |
|---|
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Final Verdict: Livingstone vs Johannesburg
Johannesburg ranks as the better digital nomad destination, scoring 11.0% higher than Livingstone overall.
💰 Cost Analysis
- Monthly Budget: $2,230 vs $2,780
- Daily Expenses: $74 vs $93
- Livingstone is 19.8% cheaper for digital nomads
🌐 Infrastructure
- Internet Speed: Johannesburg leads with 33% faster connection
- Public Transport: Johannesburg has better public transportation
🎯 Key Advantages
Livingstone Wins In:
- Safety (22% better)
- Cost of Living (7% better)
- Air Quality (32% better)
Johannesburg Wins In:
- Overall Score (11% better)
- Healthcare (20% better)
- Internet Speed (20% better)
- Nightlife (42% better)
- Culture (14% better)
- Food Scene (24% better)
💡 Final Recommendation
Choose Johannesburg if you prioritize cost effectiveness and Overall Score. However, Livingstone 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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