Kathmandu vs Colombo

Cost of living comparison for 2026. Kathmandu is roughly 9% more affordable than Colombo (index 18 vs 20, New York = 100). Data sourced live via AI — updated regularly.

Kathmandu
More affordable overall
9% cheaper than Colombo · Cost index: 18 vs 20

Life Power at $3,000/mo

The same salary ranks differently depending on where you live — from Beggar to King.

Head-to-Head Stats

18Cost Index20
217Median Income /mo1,800
63Safety Index57
5Income Tax %18
71Internet (Mbps)45
175Coworking /mo150

Price Breakdown

KathmanduCategoryColombo
$300/month
1-BR Apartment (Center)
45% cheaper →
$550/month
$0.65/liter
Meal for One
26% ← cheaper
$0.48/liter
$2/meal
Restaurant (Mid-range)
56% cheaper →
$4.5/meal
$20/month
Monthly Transit Pass
$20/month
$30/month
Utilities (Monthly)
14% cheaper →
$35/month
$30/visit
Doctor Visit
17% ← cheaper
$25/visit

Digital Nomad Profile

Kathmandu

Internet71 Mbps
Coworking$175/mo
Café WiFigood
Englishmoderate
Communitygrowing
Walkability62/100

Colombo

Internet45 Mbps
Coworking$150/mo
Café WiFifair
Englishhigh
Communitygrowing
Walkability60/100

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Kathmandu cheaper than Colombo?

Kathmandu is cheaper than Colombo. Kathmandu has a cost of living index of 18/100 compared to 20/100 for Colombo (New York = 100), making it roughly 9% more affordable overall.

How much cheaper is Kathmandu than Colombo?

Kathmandu is approximately 9% cheaper than Colombo based on cost index scores (18 vs 20, where New York = 100). A person spending $3,000/month in Colombo could live a similar lifestyle for roughly $2,743/month in Kathmandu.

What is the rent comparison between Kathmandu and Colombo?

In Kathmandu, a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $300/month. In Colombo, the equivalent is around $550/month.

Which city is better for digital nomads — Kathmandu or Colombo?

Both cities have nomad infrastructure. Kathmandu offers 71 Mbps internet and coworking at ~$175/month. Colombo offers 45 Mbps and coworking at ~$150/month. Kathmandu has a cost advantage of 9%.

What is the average income in Kathmandu vs Colombo?

The median net monthly salary in Kathmandu is approximately $217 USD, compared to $1,800 USD in Colombo.

Compare Kathmandu with…

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