Cost of Living in Malaysia
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.
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.
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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.
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.
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, 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.
Other Questions:
- What should I pack when moving to Malaysia?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Malaysia?
- Will I be able to find a job in Malaysia?
- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- What do expats in Malaysia appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in Malaysia?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Malaysia accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Malaysia like?
- How are healthcare services in Malaysia?
- What are medical services in Malaysia like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Malaysia?
- What are emergency services like in Malaysia?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Malaysia?
- How are local medical facilities in Malaysia?
- As a foreigner living in Malaysia, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?