×
Interested in our Partner Program for businesses or our Local Guide Program for experienced expats and digital nomads? Click here to learn more.
Cost of Living in Malaysia | Expat Exchange
Expat Exchange
Free MembershipSign In
View from The Kuala Lumpur Tower

Cost of Living in Malaysia

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Feb 09, 2024

Summary: The cost of living in Malaysia is generally considered to be quite affordable. A nice 1 bedroom apartment in Malaysia can cost anywhere from $500 to $1,000 USD per month, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment can cost from $800 to $1,500 USD per month. Dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in Malaysia can cost anywhere from $10 to $20 USD per person.

SJB Global
SJB Global
SJB Global
SJB Global

Is the cost of living in Malaysia high?

We asked people how much they someone comfortably live on in Malaysia, they wrote:

"The cost of living in Malaysia is quite affordable, particularly for urban areas. The average monthly cost of living in major cities such as Kuala Lumpur, George Town, and Putrajaya ranges from around USD 400 to USD 800. Accommodation is relatively inexpensive, with the cost of renting a basic single room ranging from USD 200-400. Food prices are moderately priced, and most groceries can be found easily and cheaply. Transportation costs are affordable, with a single bus fare costing around USD 0.50. Additionally, utilities such as electricity, water, and internet are relatively inexpensive. Overall, the cost of living in Malaysia is quite reasonable and manageable," remarked one in Malaysia.

View More Answers

AGS Worldwide MoversAGS Worldwide Movers
Get Quote

Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.

AGS Worldwide MoversAGS Worldwide Movers

Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
Get Quote

Will I save money living in Malaysia?

"I would love to stay in Malaysia permenately. Financially it is a viable place for us to live as retired," explained one expat.

"Generally speaking, living in Malaysia can be significantly less expensive compared to the United States. Regular expenses such as groceries, utilities, transportation, and dining out tend to be much lower in Malaysia than in the United States. The cost of housing is also much lower in many areas of Malaysia. Additionally, certain taxes, such as sales tax, are not present in Malaysia, making it a particularly cost-effective country to live in," said one person in Malaysia.

"Exceeded. We can do almost anything financially because our money goes so much further. A high end Japanese restaurant in Los Angeles with sushi will run around $150 in Los Angeles in Tojong Tokong, Straights Quay, Marina which is high end costs less then $30.00 for two people," remarked one expat in Tojong Tokong, Penang Island.

View More Answers

What is the average cost of housing in Malaysia?

If you are thinking about moving to Malaysia, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"It's higher. A good furnished apartment in Georgetown would cost around RM.1500-3500 ($450 - 1100)," explained one expat living in Penang.

View More Answers

AGS Worldwide Movers

Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.

Learn MoreGet Quote

AGS Worldwide Movers

Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.

Learn MoreGet Quote

What are typical rental prices for expats in Malaysia?

"The price of a nice one bedroom apartment in Malaysia is typically in the range of mid to high hundreds per month, while the price of a nice two bedroom apartment in Malaysia is typically in the range of low to mid thousands of US Dollars per month," said one expat living in Malaysia.

What appliances are typically included in a rental?

We asked foreigners in Malaysia what appliances are typically included in a rental, and, if there is anything else included or not included that a newcomer would not expect. Replies included:

"In Malaysia, rental properties typically include common appliances such as refrigerators, washing machines, water heaters, air conditioners, and cooking stoves. In some cases, the rental property may also have a microwave, dishwasher, oven, and other kitchen appliances," commented one expat living in Malaysia.

About the Author

Joshua Wood 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.

View from The Kuala Lumpur Tower

AGS Worldwide Movers
AGS Worldwide Movers

AGS Worldwide Movers can move you to and from anywhere in the world.
Get Quote

AGS Worldwide MoversAGS Worldwide Movers

AGS Worldwide Movers can move you to and from anywhere in the world.
Get Quote

Contribute to Malaysia Network Contribute
Help others in Malaysia by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Malaysia.

SJB Global
SJB Global

Copyright 1997-2024 Burlingame Interactive, Inc.

Privacy Policy Legal Partners & Local Guides