Surabaya vs. Giza: Detailed 2026 Cost of Living & Quality Comparison

1. Overall Cost of Living and Economic Indicators

Climate Index

55.7 / 88.5

Cost of Living Index

27.2 / 20.1

Surabaya   Giza

h2 Surabaya presents a significantly more affordable option compared to Giza, with a cost of living index of 29.36 versus Giza's 20.14. This indicates that, on average, living expenses in Surabaya are about 46% lower than in Giza. The economic landscape differs markedly, with Surabaya boasting a GDP per capita of $16,700 and a lower mortgage interest rate of 12.5%, making property investment potentially less burdensome. In contrast, Giza has a higher GDP per capita of $16,700 but faces significantly higher financing costs with a 25% mortgage rate, which could impact long-term affordability and investment attractiveness despite similar nominal income levels.

2. Specific Expense Comparisons

Health Care Index

68.9 / 62.6

Pollution Index

55.9 / 100.5

Surabaya   Giza

h2 When examining specific living expenses, the disparities between Surabaya and Giza become even more pronounced. Food costs are substantially lower in Surabaya, with a mid-range restaurant meal for two priced at approximately $9.50 compared to Giza's $14.21. Basic groceries also favor Surabaya, with staples like bread, rice, and eggs being considerably cheaper. Transportation expenses reflect this affordability gap, as owning a car is more accessible in Surabaya, with a compact car costing around $255 per month in equivalent terms, versus nearly $265 in Giza. Utilities for an 85m² apartment are also more affordable in Surabaya ($105 per month) compared to Giza's $190 per month.

3. Quality of Life and Living Environment

Property Price to Income Ratio

28.7 / 39.2

Purchasing Power Index

30.8 / 21.9

Surabaya   Giza

h2 The quality of life assessment reveals a clear contrast between the two cities. Surabaya scores significantly higher with a quality of life index of 69.42 compared to Giza's 51.01. Healthcare access is notably better in Surabaya, with a healthcare index of 72.58 versus Giza's 62.58. Environmental factors also favor Surabaya, with substantially lower pollution levels at 42.31 compared to Giza's extremely high 100.49. These factors contribute to a more comfortable and healthier living environment in Surabaya, despite the lower cost of living.

4. Housing Market Analysis

Quality of Life Index

104.9 / 51

Safety Index

63.1 / 45.5

Surabaya   Giza

h2 The housing market presents contrasting scenarios for both cities. While Giza has lower monthly rental costs ($95 for a 1-bedroom apartment outside the city center versus $149 in Surabaya), the purchase price per square meter is dramatically lower in Surabaya ($126) compared to Giza's $838. This makes homeownership significantly more accessible in Surabaya. The lower property price-to-income ratio in Surabaya (18.1) further enhances its housing affordability, whereas Giza's ratio of 39.15 indicates a more substantial financial commitment for property purchases.

5. Investment and Economic Outlook

Traffic Commute Time Index

32.8 / 53.8

Surabaya   Giza

h2 Considering investment potential, Surabaya appears more favorable due to its lower property prices, lower interest rates, and higher projected population growth (1.49% compared to Giza's 0.76%). The city's economic indicators, including a robust GDP per capita and promising population growth, suggest a potentially growing market that could offer appreciation opportunities. Conversely, Giza's high interest rates may limit investment accessibility, while its already high cost of living could constrain further growth potential. Surabaya thus presents a more compelling investment case from a financial perspective, balancing affordability with growth potential.