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Arequipa vs Bilbao

Cost of Living, Safety & Expat Guide (2026)

Arequipa

Arequipa

Peru

$694/mo7/10
Bilbao

Bilbao

Spain

$1,664/mo6.4/10

Detailed Comparison

Factor
Arequipa
Bilbao
Winner
Total Monthly Cost
$694
$1,664
Arequipa
Rent (1BR)
$352
$1,181
Arequipa
Groceries
$205
$360
Arequipa
Transport
$38
$38
Bilbao
Healthcare
$75
$55
Bilbao
Safety Score
5.7/10
5.1/10
Arequipa
Internet Speed
70 Mbps
170 Mbps
Bilbao
NomadIQ Score
7/10
6.4/10
Arequipa

Overall Winner: Arequipa

Based on our comparison, Arequipa wins 5 out of 8 categories.Bilbao wins 3 categories.

Which city is better for digital nomads?

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

Best for Budget

Arequipa

$694/mo

Best Internet

Bilbao

170 Mbps

Best NomadIQ Score

Arequipa

7/10

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

Digital Nomad Analysis: Arequipa vs Bilbao

When comparing Arequipa and Bilbao for digital nomads, several factors come into play.

Cost of Living: Arequipa offers a more affordable lifestyle at $694/month compared to Bilbao's $1,664/month.

Internet & Remote Work: Bilbao provides faster connectivity at 170 Mbps compared to Arequipa's 70 Mbps.

Safety: With a safety score of 5.7/10, Arequipa provides a more secure environment than Bilbao (5.1/10).

Overall: Arequipa earns a higher NomadIQ score of 7/10, making it slightly more suited for the digital nomad lifestyle.

Cost of Living Comparison

Arequipa is 58% cheaper than Bilbao.

  • • Arequipa rent: $352/mo
  • • Bilbao rent: $1,181/mo
  • • Difference: $829/mo

Safety Comparison

Arequipa has a higher safety score (5.7/10) compared to Bilbao (5.1/10).

5.7/10

Arequipa

5.1/10

Bilbao

Digital Nomad Friendliness

For remote workers, internet speed is crucial. Bilbao offers faster internet at 170 Mbps vs 70 Mbps.

70 Mbps

Arequipa

170 Mbps

Bilbao

Which City Is Better for Expats?

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

Arequipa: Best for budget-conscious expats

Bilbao: Best for those prioritizing amenities

Frequently Asked Questions: Arequipa vs Bilbao