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Kathmandu vs Lyon

Cost of Living, Safety & Expat Guide (2026)

Kathmandu

Kathmandu

Nepal

$365/mo6.5/10
Lyon

Lyon

France

$1,704/mo6.3/10

Detailed Comparison

Factor
Kathmandu
Lyon
Winner
Total Monthly Cost
$365
$1,704
Kathmandu
Rent (1BR)
$179
$948
Kathmandu
Groceries
$127
$364
Kathmandu
Transport
$10
$158
Kathmandu
Healthcare
$40
$200
Kathmandu
Safety Score
6.4/10
4.1/10
Kathmandu
Internet Speed
35 Mbps
200 Mbps
Lyon
NomadIQ Score
6.5/10
6.3/10
Kathmandu

Overall Winner: Kathmandu

Based on our comparison, Kathmandu wins 7 out of 8 categories.Lyon wins 1 categories.

Which city is better for digital nomads?

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

Best for Budget

Kathmandu

$365/mo

Best Internet

Lyon

200 Mbps

Best NomadIQ Score

Kathmandu

6.5/10

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

Digital Nomad Analysis: Kathmandu vs Lyon

When comparing Kathmandu and Lyon for digital nomads, several factors come into play.

Cost of Living: Kathmandu offers a more affordable lifestyle at $365/month compared to Lyon's $1,704/month.

Internet & Remote Work: Lyon provides faster connectivity at 200 Mbps compared to Kathmandu's 35 Mbps.

Safety: With a safety score of 6.4/10, Kathmandu provides a more secure environment than Lyon (4.1/10).

Overall: Kathmandu earns a higher NomadIQ score of 6.5/10, making it slightly more suited for the digital nomad lifestyle.

Cost of Living Comparison

Kathmandu is 79% cheaper than Lyon.

  • • Kathmandu rent: $179/mo
  • • Lyon rent: $948/mo
  • • Difference: $769/mo

Safety Comparison

Kathmandu has a higher safety score (6.4/10) compared to Lyon (4.1/10).

6.4/10

Kathmandu

4.1/10

Lyon

Digital Nomad Friendliness

For remote workers, internet speed is crucial. Lyon offers faster internet at 200 Mbps vs 35 Mbps.

35 Mbps

Kathmandu

200 Mbps

Lyon

Which City Is Better for Expats?

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

Kathmandu: Best for budget-conscious expats

Lyon: Best for those prioritizing amenities

Frequently Asked Questions: Kathmandu vs Lyon