Cost of Living, Safety & Expat Guide (2026)

Peru

Kuwait
For digital nomads choosing between Arequipa and Hawalli, the answer depends on your priorities. Here's our analysis:
Best for Budget
Arequipa
$694/mo
Best Internet
Hawalli
85 Mbps
Best NomadIQ Score
Hawalli
7.2/10
Our Recommendation: Choose Arequipa if budget is your top priority, or Hawalli if you need the fastest internet for remote work.
When comparing Arequipa and Hawalli for digital nomads, several factors come into play.
Cost of Living: Arequipa offers a more affordable lifestyle at $694/month compared to Hawalli's $998/month.
Internet & Remote Work: Hawalli provides faster connectivity at 85 Mbps compared to Arequipa's 70 Mbps.
Safety: With a safety score of 6/10, Hawalli offers better security than Arequipa (5.7/10).
Overall: Hawalli's NomadIQ score of 7.2/10 gives it an edge for remote workers.
Arequipa is 31% cheaper than Hawalli.
Hawalli has a higher safety score (6/10) compared to Arequipa (5.7/10).
5.7/10
Arequipa
6/10
Hawalli
For remote workers, internet speed is crucial. Hawalli offers faster internet at 85 Mbps vs 70 Mbps.
70 Mbps
Arequipa
85 Mbps
Hawalli
Both cities are excellent choices for expats, with each having unique strengths.
Arequipa: Best for budget-conscious expats
Hawalli: Best for those prioritizing amenities
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