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Bangkok vs Palawan — Cost of Living Comparison 2026

Which city is cheaper, safer, and better for remote workers? Here's the data.

Thailand
Cost of Living (US=100)
42
affordable
Philippines
Cost of Living (US=100)
36
affordable
NoodlePants Verdict — generated from live data

Palawan edges out Bangkok on affordability with a Cost of Living index of 36.2 vs 42.1 (US=100; affordable vs affordable). Palawan scores higher on safety (72/100), and Bangkok wins on internet at ~220 Mbps. Overall, Bangkok takes the Nomad Score crown with 78/100 — best for budget nomad and foodies.

Metric
Bangkok
Palawan
Avg Rent 1BR (city centre)
US$690
US$400
Avg Rent 1BR (outside centre)
US$380
US$250
Cost of Living (US=100)
42
36
Safety Score
60/100
72/100
Internet Speed
220 Mbps
40 Mbps
Nomad Score
78/100
70/100
Healthcare Score
78/100
55/100
Digital Nomad Visa
✓ Available
Not available

Who is each city for?

Bangkok is better for…
Budget nomadFoodiesCity loversNightlife
See the Thailand country profile
Palawan is better for…
Remote workers
See the Philippines country profile

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