Mutare vs Johannesburg – Digital Nomad Guide
Trying to decide between Mutare, Zimbabwe and Johannesburg, South Africa? Here's a detailed comparison to help digital nomads and remote workers make an informed choice.
💰 Cost of Living
Mutare has a monthly cost of $2,030, which is 27.0% lower than Johannesburg's $2,780.
🌐 Internet Infrastructure
For internet speeds, Mutare offers 30 Mbps, while Johannesburg provides 30 Mbps – making Johannesburg's connection 0.0% faster .
☀️ Current Weather
The weather in Mutare is currently 21°C 🌤️, while Johannesburg is experiencing 18°C 🌫️.
🛡️ Safety Comparison
Mutare has a safety score of 50.0 , while Johannesburg scores 38.0 .

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Overall
Johannesburg wins
Johannesburg is 12% better
Quality of Life
Johannesburg wins
Mutare is 12% better
Johannesburg is 22% better
Cost
Mutare wins
Mutare is 10% better
Climate
Mutare wins
Mutare is 20% better
Infrastructure
Johannesburg wins
Johannesburg is 23% better
Social
Johannesburg wins
Johannesburg is 46% better
Johannesburg is 8% better
Johannesburg is 11% better
Total Cost of Living Comparison
Category | Mutare | Johannesburg | Difference |
---|---|---|---|
Monthly Total | $2,030 | $2,780 | -27.0% |
Daily Average | $68 | $93 | per day |
Housing
Item | Mutare | Johannesburg | Difference |
---|---|---|---|
Apartment (1 bedroom) | $120.00 per month | $450.00 per month | -73.3% |
Daily Life
Item | Mutare | Johannesburg | Difference |
---|---|---|---|
Coffee | $1.20 per cup | $1.50 per cup | -20.0% |
Transportation
Item | Mutare | Johannesburg | Difference |
---|
Utilities
Item | Mutare | Johannesburg | Difference |
---|

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Final Verdict: Mutare vs Johannesburg
Johannesburg ranks as the better digital nomad destination, scoring 12.0% higher than Mutare overall.
💰 Cost Analysis
- Monthly Budget: $2,030 vs $2,780
- Daily Expenses: $68 vs $93
- Mutare is 27.0% cheaper for digital nomads
🌐 Infrastructure
- Internet Speed: Johannesburg leads with 0% faster connection
- Public Transport: Johannesburg has better public transportation
🎯 Key Advantages
Mutare Wins In:
- Safety (12% better)
- Cost of Living (10% better)
- Air Quality (20% better)
Johannesburg Wins In:
- Overall Score (12% better)
- Healthcare (22% better)
- Internet Speed (23% better)
- Nightlife (46% better)
- Culture (8% better)
- Food Scene (11% better)
💡 Final Recommendation
Choose Johannesburg if you prioritize cost effectiveness and Overall Score. However, Mutare 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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