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Kathmandu vs Madaba

Cost of Living, Safety & Expat Guide (2026)

Kathmandu

Kathmandu

Nepal

$365/mo6.5/10
Madaba

Madaba

Jordan

$506/mo6.7/10

Detailed Comparison

Factor
Kathmandu
Madaba
Winner
Total Monthly Cost
$365
$506
Kathmandu
Rent (1BR)
$179
$176
Madaba
Groceries
$127
$183
Kathmandu
Transport
$10
$71
Kathmandu
Healthcare
$40
$55
Kathmandu
Safety Score
6.4/10
5.9/10
Kathmandu
Internet Speed
35 Mbps
50 Mbps
Madaba
NomadIQ Score
6.5/10
6.7/10
Madaba

Overall Winner: Kathmandu

Based on our comparison, Kathmandu wins 5 out of 8 categories.Madaba wins 3 categories.

Which city is better for digital nomads?

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

Best for Budget

Kathmandu

$365/mo

Best Internet

Madaba

50 Mbps

Best NomadIQ Score

Madaba

6.7/10

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

Digital Nomad Analysis: Kathmandu vs Madaba

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

Cost of Living: Kathmandu offers a more affordable lifestyle at $365/month compared to Madaba's $506/month.

Internet & Remote Work: Madaba provides faster connectivity at 50 Mbps compared to Kathmandu's 35 Mbps.

Safety: With a safety score of 6.4/10, Kathmandu provides a more secure environment than Madaba (5.9/10).

Overall: Madaba's NomadIQ score of 6.7/10 gives it an edge for remote workers.

Cost of Living Comparison

Kathmandu is 28% cheaper than Madaba.

  • • Kathmandu rent: $179/mo
  • • Madaba rent: $176/mo
  • • Difference: $3/mo

Safety Comparison

Kathmandu has a higher safety score (6.4/10) compared to Madaba (5.9/10).

6.4/10

Kathmandu

5.9/10

Madaba

Digital Nomad Friendliness

For remote workers, internet speed is crucial. Madaba offers faster internet at 50 Mbps vs 35 Mbps.

35 Mbps

Kathmandu

50 Mbps

Madaba

Which City Is Better for Expats?

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

Kathmandu: Best for budget-conscious expats

Madaba: Best for those prioritizing amenities

Frequently Asked Questions: Kathmandu vs Madaba