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Alicante vs Koh Samui

Cost of Living, Safety & Expat Guide (2026)

Alicante

Alicante

Spain

$1,495/mo7.1/10
Koh Samui

Koh Samui

Thailand

$1,325/mo7.5/10

Detailed Comparison

Factor
Alicante
Koh Samui
Winner
Total Monthly Cost
$1,495
$1,325
Koh Samui
Rent (1BR)
$998
$846
Koh Samui
Groceries
$283
$280
Koh Samui
Transport
$94
$60
Koh Samui
Healthcare
$90
$120
Alicante
Safety Score
6.3/10
7.4/10
Koh Samui
Internet Speed
150 Mbps
95 Mbps
Alicante
NomadIQ Score
7.1/10
7.5/10
Koh Samui

Overall Winner: Koh Samui

Based on our comparison, Koh Samui wins 6 out of 8 categories.Alicante wins 2 categories.

Which city is better for digital nomads?

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

Best for Budget

Koh Samui

$1,325/mo

Best Internet

Alicante

150 Mbps

Best NomadIQ Score

Koh Samui

7.5/10

Our Recommendation: Koh Samui is the clear winner for digital nomads, offering both affordability and excellent nomad infrastructure.

Digital Nomad Analysis: Alicante vs Koh Samui

When comparing Alicante and Koh Samui for digital nomads, several factors come into play.

Cost of Living: Koh Samui is the more budget-friendly option at $1,325/month versus Alicante's $1,495/month.

Internet & Remote Work: Alicante leads with 150 Mbps average internet speed, ideal for video calls and large file transfers. Koh Samui offers 95 Mbps.

Safety: With a safety score of 7.4/10, Koh Samui offers better security than Alicante (6.3/10).

Overall: Koh Samui's NomadIQ score of 7.5/10 gives it an edge for remote workers.

Cost of Living Comparison

Koh Samui is 11% cheaper than Alicante.

  • • Alicante rent: $998/mo
  • • Koh Samui rent: $846/mo
  • • Difference: $152/mo

Safety Comparison

Koh Samui has a higher safety score (7.4/10) compared to Alicante (6.3/10).

6.3/10

Alicante

7.4/10

Koh Samui

Digital Nomad Friendliness

For remote workers, internet speed is crucial. Alicante offers faster internet at 150 Mbps vs 95 Mbps.

150 Mbps

Alicante

95 Mbps

Koh Samui

Which City Is Better for Expats?

Based on our analysis, Koh Samui edges out as the better choice for expats, winning 6 of 8 comparison factors.

Alicante: Best for those prioritizing amenities

Koh Samui: Best for budget-conscious expats

Frequently Asked Questions: Alicante vs Koh Samui