Cost of Living in Miri

Can I live in Miri on $1,500 a month?

"I've been living in Miri for a while now, and I can tell you that it's possible to live comfortably on $1,500 a month, but you'll have to make some sacrifices. First, you'll need to find a place to live that's affordable. Some of the more expensive neighborhoods like Senadin and Pujut might be out of your budget, so I'd recommend looking into more affordable areas like Permyjaya or Krokop. You can find a decent apartment or house for around $300-$500 a month in these areas.Next, you'll need to be mindful of your utility bills. Electricity and water can be quite expensive, especially if you're used to using air conditioning a lot. Try to limit your usage and invest in energy-efficient appliances to save on costs. Internet and phone plans can also be pricey, so shop around for the best deals and consider using prepaid plans to keep your expenses in check.Transportation is another area where you can save money. Owning a car in Malaysia can be expensive due to high import taxes and fuel costs. Instead, consider using public transportation like buses or taxis, or even better, get a bicycle or a motorbike for getting around town. This will not only save you money but also help you stay fit and healthy.Eating out can be quite affordable in Miri, especially if you stick to local food at hawker centers and food courts. However, if you're used to eating at fancy restaurants or having Western food, you might need to cut back on that to stay within your budget. Cooking at home can also help you save money, and you can find fresh produce and groceries at local markets for reasonable prices.Finally, you'll need to be mindful of your entertainment and leisure expenses. Going out to bars, clubs, or other entertainment venues can quickly eat into your budget. Instead, consider exploring the many free or low-cost activities that Miri has to offer, like visiting parks, beaches, or cultural sites. You can also find affordable gyms and sports facilities if you're into fitness and staying active.In conclusion, living comfortably on $1,500 a month in Miri is possible, but you'll need to be mindful of your expenses and make some sacrifices. By choosing an affordable neighborhood, being conscious of your utility usage, using public transportation, eating local food, and finding low-cost entertainment options, you can make it work and enjoy your time in this beautiful city," commented an expat living in Miri.

Can I live in Miri on $3,500 a month?

"I've been living in Miri for a while now, and I can tell you that it's definitely possible to live comfortably on $3,000 a month, even if you're used to modern amenities. However, there might be some sacrifices you'll have to make to ensure you stay within your budget.Firstly, you'll want to choose an affordable neighborhood to live in. Some of the more budget-friendly areas in Miri include Permyjaya, Senadin, and Piasau. These neighborhoods offer a good mix of local amenities, such as shops, restaurants, and public transport, while still being relatively affordable in terms of rent. On the other hand, you might want to avoid more expensive neighborhoods like Marina Parkcity, Luak Bay, and Brighton, as these areas tend to have higher rental prices.When it comes to housing, you can find a decent apartment or house for around $500 to $800 per month, depending on the size and location. If you're willing to share a place with roommates, you can cut down on your housing costs even further.As for transportation, owning a car can be quite expensive in Malaysia due to import taxes and high petrol prices. Instead, consider using public transport or ride-sharing services like Grab to get around. Alternatively, you could purchase a motorbike or scooter, which is a more affordable option and a popular choice among locals.Eating out in Miri can be quite affordable, especially if you stick to local food at hawker centers and food courts. However, if you prefer to dine at more upscale restaurants or indulge in Western cuisine, your food expenses can add up quickly. To save money, consider cooking at home more often and shopping at local markets for fresh produce.In terms of entertainment and leisure activities, there are plenty of affordable options in Miri. You can visit local parks, beaches, and hiking trails for free, or take advantage of the many shopping malls and movie theaters that offer reasonably priced entertainment options. However, you might have to cut back on more expensive hobbies or activities, such as frequent international travel or high-end shopping.Overall, living comfortably on $3,000 a month in Miri is definitely achievable, but it will require some adjustments and sacrifices in terms of housing, transportation, and lifestyle choices. By being mindful of your spending and prioritizing your needs, you can enjoy a good quality of life in this beautiful Malaysian city," said one expat living in Miri.

Can I live in Miri on $5,000 a month?

"I've been living in Miri for a few years now, and I can tell you that it's definitely possible to live comfortably on $5,000 a month, even if you're used to modern amenities. In fact, you might not have to make too many sacrifices at all. The in Miri is generally lower than in many Western countries, so your money will go further here.When it comes to housing, there are several neighborhoods that offer affordable options without compromising on quality. For example, you might want to consider areas like Piasau, Krokop, or Permyjaya. These neighborhoods have a good mix of local and expat residents, and you can find modern houses or apartments for rent at reasonable prices. On the other hand, you might want to avoid more expensive neighborhoods like Senadin or Marina Parkcity, as the rental prices there can be quite high.In terms of transportation, owning a car in Miri is relatively affordable, and it's quite common for expats to have their own vehicle. However, if you prefer not to drive, you can still get around using Grab (similar to Uber) or local taxis, which are also reasonably priced.Eating out in Miri can be very affordable, especially if you're open to trying local cuisine at hawker centers or food courts. However, if you prefer Western-style restaurants or fine dining, you might find that the prices are a bit higher, but still manageable within your budget.As for entertainment and leisure activities, there are plenty of options in Miri that won't break the bank. You can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking in the nearby national parks, visiting the beaches, or exploring the city's parks and gardens. There are also shopping malls, cinemas, and other entertainment venues that cater to a variety of tastes and budgets.In terms of healthcare, Miri has several private hospitals and clinics that offer high-quality medical services at affordable prices. Many expats choose to get private health insurance to cover any medical expenses, which can be a good investment for peace of mind.Overall, I think you'll find that living in Miri on a $5,000 a month budget is not only possible but also quite comfortable. You might have to make a few adjustments to your lifestyle, but you'll still be able to enjoy modern amenities and a good quality of life," commented an expat living in Miri.