Cost of Living, Safety & Expat Guide (2026)

Spain

Brunei
For digital nomads choosing between Bilbao and Kuala Belait, the answer depends on your priorities. Here's our analysis:
Best for Budget
Kuala Belait
$1,483/mo
Best Internet
Bilbao
170 Mbps
Best NomadIQ Score
Kuala Belait
6.6/10
Our Recommendation: Kuala Belait is the clear winner for digital nomads, offering both affordability and excellent nomad infrastructure.
When comparing Bilbao and Kuala Belait for digital nomads, several factors come into play.
Cost of Living: Kuala Belait is the more budget-friendly option at $1,483/month versus Bilbao's $1,664/month.
Internet & Remote Work: Bilbao leads with 170 Mbps average internet speed, ideal for video calls and large file transfers. Kuala Belait offers 80 Mbps.
Safety: With a safety score of 6.4/10, Kuala Belait offers better security than Bilbao (5.1/10).
Overall: Kuala Belait's NomadIQ score of 6.6/10 gives it an edge for remote workers.
Kuala Belait is 11% cheaper than Bilbao.
Kuala Belait has a higher safety score (6.4/10) compared to Bilbao (5.1/10).
5.1/10
Bilbao
6.4/10
Kuala Belait
For remote workers, internet speed is crucial. Bilbao offers faster internet at 170 Mbps vs 80 Mbps.
170 Mbps
Bilbao
80 Mbps
Kuala Belait
Both cities are excellent choices for expats, with each having unique strengths.
Bilbao: Best for those prioritizing amenities
Kuala Belait: Best for budget-conscious expats
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