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Is the cost of living in Malaysia high?

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William Russell
William Russell
William Russell
William Russell

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," mentioned another expat when asked about moving to Malaysia.

"I pay US$600/mo rent, food @US$10/day (eating out/with non-alc. drink), Grab Taxi anywhere in town (up to 5 miles) US $2-5. Beer $1-2 tin/bottle. Bottle of Australian wine US$15-25!!! Local lankau rice wine or toddy $1-2. I spend about US$1200/month...tack on regional air trips and health insurance and it might go up to US$1500. Air-fare to Singapore US$20-50, double that to Bali, Bangkok or Ho Chi Minh City (routing through Kuala Lumpur or Singapore). That's about what they expect a S-MM2H single applicant to show," commented one expat who made the move to Kuching, Malaysia.

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Is the cost of living in Malaysia high?

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About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and serves as Co-President of Expat Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad 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 of George Town, Penang, Malaysia
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