- Purchase the complete Expat Arrivals Malaysia Guide (PDF)
The cost of living in Malaysia is relatively low compared to neighbouring countries. According to the 2020 Mercer Cost of Living Survey, Kuala Lumpur ranked 144th out of 209 cities surveyed worldwide, placing it well below the cost of living of nearby Asian capitals such as Manila, Jakarta and Singapore.
Accommodation will most likely be the largest expense that expats will need to cover, but 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 with the price being highly dependent on what kind of home an expat is looking for. When viewing accommodation, 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. Using public transport can become a lifesaver.
Household running costs also vary, and on top of the basic rent, expats will also 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 provides for a cheap night out, and even restaurant meals can be reasonable. Alcohol is expensive, though, so drinks can increase the cost of eating out 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. Besides the markets, which are stocked with a range of other products other than food, expats will also be spoilt for choice in the modern malls dotted around Malaysian cities.
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 October 2020.
Accommodation (monthly rent) |
|
One-bedroom apartment in city centre |
MYR 2,000 |
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 2,000 |
Groceries |
|
Milk (1 litre) |
MYR 6.90 |
Loaf of white bread |
MYR 3.30 |
Rice (1kg) |
MYR 4.20 |
Dozen eggs |
MYR 6.20 |
Chicken breasts (1kg) |
MYR 12.40 |
Pack of cigarettes (Marlboro) |
MYR 17.90 |
Utilities/household |
|
Mobile call rate (per minute – mobile to mobile) |
MYR 0.30 |
Internet (uncapped per month) |
MYR 125 |
Basic utilities per month (electricity, gas, water) |
MYR 220 |
Hourly rate for domestic cleaner |
MYR 30 |
Eating out |
|
Three-course meal at mid-range restaurant for two people |
MYR 80 |
Big Mac |
MYR 15 |
Cappuccino |
MYR 12 |
Local beer (500ml) |
MYR 15 |
Coca-Cola (330ml) |
MYR 2.70 |
Transport |
|
Taxi rate (per km) |
MYR 3 |
City-centre public transport |
MYR 3 |
Petrol/gasoline (per litre) |
MYR 2.20 |
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.
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