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 24°C 🌤️, while Johannesburg is experiencing 18°C 🌤️.
🛡️ Safety Comparison
Livingstone has a safety score of 57.0 , while Johannesburg scores 38.0 .
Stay covered worldwide with flexible health insurance plans. Worldwide coverage, simple plans.
Overall
Johannesburg wins
Johannesburg is 8% better
Quality of Life
Johannesburg wins
Livingstone is 19% better
Johannesburg is 27% better
Cost
Livingstone wins
Livingstone is 7% better
Climate
Livingstone wins
Livingstone is 39% better
Infrastructure
Johannesburg wins
Johannesburg is 11% better
Social
Johannesburg wins
Johannesburg is 40% better
Johannesburg is 20% 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 |
---|

Earn rental income and capital gains from luxury Dubai real estate. Dubai real estate from $500.
Final Verdict: Livingstone vs Johannesburg
Johannesburg ranks as the better digital nomad destination, scoring 8.0% 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 (19% better)
- Cost of Living (7% better)
- Air Quality (39% better)
Johannesburg Wins In:
- Overall Score (8% better)
- Healthcare (27% better)
- Internet Speed (11% better)
- Nightlife (40% better)
- Food Scene (20% 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.
Revolut Ultra: Unlimited lounge access & 3GB global data monthly. Premium benefits, global data.