Living in Indonesia

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Jan 01, 2024

Summary: People describe life in Indonesia as vibrant, diverse, and full of opportunity. Expats love the friendly people, the tropical climate, the beautiful beaches, and the low cost of living. The average cost of living for an expat is around $1,000 to $2,000 per month, depending on lifestyle and location. The population of Indonesia is approximately 270 million people, making it the fourth most populous country in the world. The largest cities in Indonesia are Jakarta, Surabaya, Bandung, Medan, and Semarang. The cons of living in Indonesia include the high levels of air pollution, the lack of reliable public transportation, and the prevalence of corruption. Additionally, the cost of living can be higher in some areas, and the healthcare system is not as advanced as in other countries.

What do I need to know about living in Indonesia?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Indonesia, they said:

"Don't drink tap water. Eat only at restaurants that are recommended and tested by others. Learn the language. Have patience, therefore one can adapt accordingly. Don't expect too much from the people," said one expat in Jakarta.

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About the Author

Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.