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Bali vs Kandy

Cost of Living, Safety & Expat Guide (2026)

Bali

Bali

Indonesia

$1,585/mo7.3/10
Kandy

Kandy

Sri Lanka

$408/mo7.5/10

Detailed Comparison

Factor
Bali
Kandy
Winner
Total Monthly Cost
$1,585
$408
Kandy
Rent (1BR)
$1,084
$185
Kandy
Groceries
$300
$120
Kandy
Transport
$60
$25
Kandy
Healthcare
$120
$65
Kandy
Safety Score
4.9/10
5.8/10
Kandy
Internet Speed
200 Mbps
65 Mbps
Bali
NomadIQ Score
7.3/10
7.5/10
Kandy

Overall Winner: Kandy

Based on our comparison, Kandy wins 7 out of 8 categories.Bali wins 1 categories.

Which city is better for digital nomads?

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

Best for Budget

Kandy

$408/mo

Best Internet

Bali

200 Mbps

Best NomadIQ Score

Kandy

7.5/10

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

Digital Nomad Analysis: Bali vs Kandy

When comparing Bali and Kandy for digital nomads, several factors come into play.

Cost of Living: Kandy is the more budget-friendly option at $408/month versus Bali's $1,585/month.

Internet & Remote Work: Bali leads with 200 Mbps average internet speed, ideal for video calls and large file transfers. Kandy offers 65 Mbps.

Safety: With a safety score of 5.8/10, Kandy offers better security than Bali (4.9/10).

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

Cost of Living Comparison

Kandy is 74% cheaper than Bali.

  • • Bali rent: $1,084/mo
  • • Kandy rent: $185/mo
  • • Difference: $899/mo

Safety Comparison

Kandy has a higher safety score (5.8/10) compared to Bali (4.9/10).

4.9/10

Bali

5.8/10

Kandy

Digital Nomad Friendliness

For remote workers, internet speed is crucial. Bali offers faster internet at 200 Mbps vs 65 Mbps.

200 Mbps

Bali

65 Mbps

Kandy

Which City Is Better for Expats?

Based on our analysis, Kandy edges out as the better choice for expats, winning 7 of 8 comparison factors.

Bali: Best for those prioritizing amenities

Kandy: Best for budget-conscious expats

Frequently Asked Questions: Bali vs Kandy