Bulawayo vs Johannesburg – Digital Nomad Guide
Trying to decide between Bulawayo, Zimbabwe and Johannesburg, South Africa? Here's a detailed comparison to help digital nomads and remote workers make an informed choice.
💰 Cost of Living
Bulawayo has a monthly cost of $2,130, which is 23.4% lower than Johannesburg's $2,780.
🌐 Internet Infrastructure
For internet speeds, Bulawayo offers 25 Mbps, while Johannesburg provides 30 Mbps – making Johannesburg's connection 20.0% faster .
☀️ Current Weather
The weather in Bulawayo is currently 19°C 🌤️, while Johannesburg is experiencing 18°C 🌫️.
🛡️ Safety Comparison
Bulawayo has a safety score of 50.0 , while Johannesburg scores 38.0 .
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Overall
Johannesburg wins
Johannesburg is 10% better
Quality of Life
Johannesburg wins
Bulawayo is 12% better
Johannesburg is 25% better
Cost
Bulawayo wins
Bulawayo is 10% better
Climate
Bulawayo wins
Bulawayo is 15% better
Infrastructure
Johannesburg wins
Johannesburg is 20% better
Social
Johannesburg wins
Johannesburg is 31% better
Johannesburg is 6% better
Johannesburg is 17% better
Total Cost of Living Comparison
| Category | Bulawayo | Johannesburg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly Total | $2,130 | $2,780 | -23.4% |
| Daily Average | $71 | $93 | per day |
Housing
| Item | Bulawayo | Johannesburg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apartment (1 bedroom) | $180.00 per month | $450.00 per month | -60.0% |
Daily Life
| Item | Bulawayo | Johannesburg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coffee | $1.20 per cup | $1.50 per cup | -20.0% |
Transportation
| Item | Bulawayo | Johannesburg | Difference |
|---|
Utilities
| Item | Bulawayo | Johannesburg | Difference |
|---|
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Final Verdict: Bulawayo vs Johannesburg
Johannesburg ranks as the better digital nomad destination, scoring 10.0% higher than Bulawayo overall.
💰 Cost Analysis
- Monthly Budget: $2,130 vs $2,780
- Daily Expenses: $71 vs $93
- Bulawayo is 23.4% cheaper for digital nomads
🌐 Infrastructure
- Internet Speed: Johannesburg leads with 17% faster connection
- Public Transport: Johannesburg has better public transportation
🎯 Key Advantages
Bulawayo Wins In:
- Safety (12% better)
- Cost of Living (10% better)
- Air Quality (15% better)
Johannesburg Wins In:
- Overall Score (10% better)
- Healthcare (25% better)
- Internet Speed (20% better)
- Nightlife (31% better)
- Culture (6% better)
- Food Scene (17% better)
💡 Final Recommendation
Choose Johannesburg if you prioritize cost effectiveness and Overall Score. However, Bulawayo 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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