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Aktau vs Almaty

Cost of Living, Safety & Expat Guide (2026)

Aktau

Aktau

Kazakhstan

$568/mo6.8/10
Almaty

Almaty

Kazakhstan

$1,186/mo7/10

Detailed Comparison

Factor
Aktau
Almaty
Winner
Total Monthly Cost
$568
$1,186
Aktau
Rent (1BR)
$307
$747
Aktau
Groceries
$191
$300
Aktau
Transport
$10
$35
Aktau
Healthcare
$50
$90
Aktau
Safety Score
4.6/10
4.7/10
Almaty
Internet Speed
70 Mbps
140 Mbps
Almaty
NomadIQ Score
6.8/10
7/10
Almaty

Overall Winner: Aktau

Based on our comparison, Aktau wins 5 out of 8 categories.Almaty wins 3 categories.

Which city is better for digital nomads?

For digital nomads choosing between Aktau and Almaty, the answer depends on your priorities. Here's our analysis:

Best for Budget

Aktau

$568/mo

Best Internet

Almaty

140 Mbps

Best NomadIQ Score

Almaty

7/10

Our Recommendation: Choose Aktau if budget is your top priority, or Almaty if you need the fastest internet for remote work.

Digital Nomad Analysis: Aktau vs Almaty

When comparing Aktau and Almaty for digital nomads, several factors come into play.

Cost of Living: Aktau offers a more affordable lifestyle at $568/month compared to Almaty's $1,186/month.

Internet & Remote Work: Almaty provides faster connectivity at 140 Mbps compared to Aktau's 70 Mbps.

Safety: With a safety score of 4.7/10, Almaty offers better security than Aktau (4.6/10).

Overall: Almaty's NomadIQ score of 7/10 gives it an edge for remote workers.

Cost of Living Comparison

Aktau is 52% cheaper than Almaty.

  • • Aktau rent: $307/mo
  • • Almaty rent: $747/mo
  • • Difference: $440/mo

Safety Comparison

Almaty has a higher safety score (4.7/10) compared to Aktau (4.6/10).

4.6/10

Aktau

4.7/10

Almaty

Digital Nomad Friendliness

For remote workers, internet speed is crucial. Almaty offers faster internet at 140 Mbps vs 70 Mbps.

70 Mbps

Aktau

140 Mbps

Almaty

Which City Is Better for Expats?

Based on our analysis, Aktau edges out as the better choice for expats, winning 5 of 8 comparison factors.

Aktau: Best for budget-conscious expats

Almaty: Best for those prioritizing amenities

Frequently Asked Questions: Aktau vs Almaty