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Baguio vs Koh Samui

Cost of Living, Safety & Expat Guide (2026)

Baguio

Baguio

Philippines

$711/mo7.2/10
Koh Samui

Koh Samui

Thailand

$1,325/mo7.5/10

Detailed Comparison

Factor
Baguio
Koh Samui
Winner
Total Monthly Cost
$711
$1,325
Baguio
Rent (1BR)
$421
$846
Baguio
Groceries
$197
$280
Baguio
Transport
$13
$60
Baguio
Healthcare
$55
$120
Baguio
Safety Score
6.6/10
7.4/10
Koh Samui
Internet Speed
70 Mbps
95 Mbps
Koh Samui
NomadIQ Score
7.2/10
7.5/10
Koh Samui

Overall Winner: Baguio

Based on our comparison, Baguio wins 5 out of 8 categories.Koh Samui wins 3 categories.

Which city is better for digital nomads?

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

Best for Budget

Baguio

$711/mo

Best Internet

Koh Samui

95 Mbps

Best NomadIQ Score

Koh Samui

7.5/10

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

Digital Nomad Analysis: Baguio vs Koh Samui

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

Cost of Living: Baguio offers a more affordable lifestyle at $711/month compared to Koh Samui's $1,325/month.

Internet & Remote Work: Koh Samui provides faster connectivity at 95 Mbps compared to Baguio's 70 Mbps.

Safety: With a safety score of 7.4/10, Koh Samui offers better security than Baguio (6.6/10).

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

Cost of Living Comparison

Baguio is 46% cheaper than Koh Samui.

  • • Baguio rent: $421/mo
  • • Koh Samui rent: $846/mo
  • • Difference: $425/mo

Safety Comparison

Koh Samui has a higher safety score (7.4/10) compared to Baguio (6.6/10).

6.6/10

Baguio

7.4/10

Koh Samui

Digital Nomad Friendliness

For remote workers, internet speed is crucial. Koh Samui offers faster internet at 95 Mbps vs 70 Mbps.

70 Mbps

Baguio

95 Mbps

Koh Samui

Which City Is Better for Expats?

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

Baguio: Best for budget-conscious expats

Koh Samui: Best for those prioritizing amenities

Frequently Asked Questions: Baguio vs Koh Samui