The cost of living in Malaysia is relatively low compared to neighbouring countries. In Mercer's Cost of Living Survey for 2022, Kuala Lumpur and Johor Bahru ranked 181st out of 211th respectively out of 227 cities surveyed worldwide. This puts even Malaysia's most expensive city, the capital, well below nearby Singapore (8th). Other regional capitals such as Manila (122nd) and Jakarta (151st) also have significantly higher costs of living.
Accommodation will most likely be the largest expense that expats will need to cover. It's possible to save by living outside of the capital and avoiding renting in city centres, opting for somewhat less convenient but much cheaper suburban options.
Cost of accommodation in Malaysia
Malaysia offers a range of accommodation options at varying prices that are highly dependent on the type of home an expat is looking for, as well as its location. When viewing a property, it's always good to enquire about the local traffic in the area and to double-check possibilities for daily routes, as a short distance can become a long commute during rush-hour traffic. Easy access to public transport is also often a lifesaver, but will push up the cost of rent.
Household running costs can vary, and on top of the basic rent, expats will need to budget for utilities such as electricity, water and gas.
Cost of food and eating out in Malaysia
Food prices are generally quite low, particularly if buying local products. Malaysia has a fine range of cuisine from across the world, and this is reflected in the many types of restaurants available. Indulging in some Malaysian street food is a great experience and makes for a cheap night out, and even restaurant meals can be reasonable. Alcohol is expensive, though, so drinks can increase the bill substantially.
Expats moving to Malaysia will also have fun exploring local markets where they can dine on stall food, which is often more authentic, and definitely cheaper, than a sit-down meal.
Cost of electrical goods in Malaysia
Malaysia, like the rest of Asia, has a range of affordable and good-quality electrical products. Cameras, computers, mobile phones and other items are all inexpensive. There are often sales and special deals, particularly around religious holidays, so shopping around does have its rewards.
Cost of living in Malaysia chart
Note that prices may vary depending on product and service provider and the list below shows average prices for Kuala Lumpur in August 2022.
Accommodation (monthly rent) |
|
One-bedroom apartment in city centre |
MYR 1,850 |
One-bedroom apartment outside city centre |
MYR 1,200 |
Three-bedroom apartment in city centre |
MYR 3,600 |
Three-bedroom apartment outside city centre |
MYR 2,300 |
Groceries |
|
Milk (1 litre) |
MYR 7.20 |
Loaf of white bread |
MYR 3.60 |
Rice (1kg) |
MYR 6.80 |
Dozen eggs |
MYR 7.40 |
Chicken breasts (1kg) |
MYR 15 |
Pack of cigarettes (Marlboro) |
MYR 18 |
Utilities/household |
|
Mobile call rate (per minute – mobile to mobile) |
MYR 0.30 |
Internet (uncapped per month) |
MYR 110 |
Basic utilities per month (electricity, gas, water) |
MYR 230 |
Eating out |
|
Three-course meal at mid-range restaurant for two people |
MYR 100 |
Big Mac |
MYR 18 |
Cappuccino |
MYR 12 |
Local beer (500ml) |
MYR 15 |
Coca-Cola (330ml) |
MYR 2.60 |
Transport |
|
Taxi rate (per km) |
MYR 5 |
City-centre public transport (one-way ticket) |
MYR 3 |
Petrol/gasoline (per litre) |
MYR 2.10 |
Further reading
►For more on managing your finances, see Banking, Money and Taxes in Malaysia
Expat Interviews
"The cost of living is great. Local food, housing, cell service are all very cheap. Local people wouldn’t agree necessarily. This is just compared to Western standards." Emily tells us about her expat experience in Malaysia.
"Cost of living is variable, and some things can be amazingly cheap. If you need to buy food, you can find some great places. If you want to have a massage, then come here and you can have a great Javanese massage at a great price. Education is the greatest expense and you really need to do your homework." Read more in Nicola's interview about being an expat in Malaysia.
Are you an expat living in Malaysia?
Expat Arrivals is looking for locals to contribute to this guide, and answer forum questions from others planning their move to Malaysia. Please contact us if you'd like to contribute.
Expat Health Insurance
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If you’re thinking about taking out private health insurance, our trusted partner Cigna Global is very aware of all the difficulties that expats can face when it comes to healthcare in a new location, so they have created a range of international health insurance plans specifically designed for expats, which you can tailor exactly to the needs and ensure access to quality care for you and your family.
Moving Companies
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