Harare vs Johannesburg – Digital Nomad Guide
Trying to decide between Harare, Zimbabwe and Johannesburg, South Africa? Here's a detailed comparison to help digital nomads and remote workers make an informed choice.
💰 Cost of Living
Harare has a monthly cost of $2,710, which is 2.5% lower than Johannesburg's $2,780.
🌐 Internet Infrastructure
For internet speeds, Harare offers 20 Mbps, while Johannesburg provides 30 Mbps – making Johannesburg's connection 50.0% faster .
☀️ Current Weather
The weather in Harare is currently 21°C 🌤️, while Johannesburg is experiencing 18°C 🌫️.
🛡️ Safety Comparison
Harare has a safety score of 40.0 , while Johannesburg scores 38.0 .

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Overall
Johannesburg wins
Johannesburg is 10% better
Quality of Life
Johannesburg wins
Johannesburg is 22% better
Cost
Harare wins
Harare is 7% better
Climate
Harare wins
Harare is 10% better
Infrastructure
Johannesburg wins
Johannesburg is 25% better
Social
Johannesburg wins
Johannesburg is 26% better
Johannesburg is 10% better
Johannesburg is 14% better
Total Cost of Living Comparison
Category | Harare | Johannesburg | Difference |
---|---|---|---|
Monthly Total | $2,710 | $2,780 | -2.5% |
Daily Average | $90 | $93 | per day |
Housing
Item | Harare | Johannesburg | Difference |
---|---|---|---|
Apartment (1 bedroom) | $250.00 per month | $450.00 per month | -44.4% |
Daily Life
Item | Harare | Johannesburg | Difference |
---|---|---|---|
Coffee | $1.50 per cup | $1.50 per cup | 0.0% |
Transportation
Item | Harare | Johannesburg | Difference |
---|
Utilities
Item | Harare | Johannesburg | Difference |
---|
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Final Verdict: Harare vs Johannesburg
Johannesburg ranks as the better digital nomad destination, scoring 10.0% higher than Harare overall.
💰 Cost Analysis
- Monthly Budget: $2,710 vs $2,780
- Daily Expenses: $90 vs $93
- Harare is 2.5% cheaper for digital nomads
🌐 Infrastructure
- Internet Speed: Johannesburg leads with 33% faster connection
- Public Transport: Johannesburg has better public transportation
🎯 Key Advantages
Harare Wins In:
- Cost of Living (7% better)
- Air Quality (10% better)
Johannesburg Wins In:
- Overall Score (10% better)
- Healthcare (22% better)
- Internet Speed (25% better)
- Nightlife (26% better)
- Culture (10% better)
- Food Scene (14% better)
💡 Final Recommendation
Choose Johannesburg if you prioritize cost effectiveness and Overall Score. However, Harare 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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