2024 Cost Living In Malaysia: Everything You Need To Know About Living In Malaysia In 2024

Thinking about moving to Malaysia but feeling concerned about the expenses? It’s a common worry—the cost of living in Malaysia can seem tricky at first. But here’s some good news: living in Malaysia is over 50% cheaper than in the United States.

In this article, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know about living in Malaysia in 2024. Keep reading to learn more.

Key Takeaways

• Cheaper Living Costs: Living in Malaysia is over 50% cheaper than in the United States.
• Affordable Housing: A one-bedroom apartment in Kuala Lumpur’s city center costs around RM1,606 per month. Outside the center, it drops to RM1,130.
• Low Food Expenses: Eating out is affordable, with meals at inexpensive restaurants around RM15. A three-course meal for two at mid-range costs about RM100.
• Cheap Transportation: Public transport is budget-friendly. A monthly pass costs just RM50, and a one-way bus or train ticket is RM3.
• Affordable Healthcare: A visit to a private doctor costs around RM84. Medicines and personal items are also low-priced.

Key Components of the Cost Living in Malaysia

Living in Malaysia means handling different expenses each day. I’ll highlight the main areas that affect your monthly budget.

Housing and Accommodation

Rent in Malaysia is much lower than in the United States—about 80% less. In Kuala Lumpur, a one-bedroom apartment in the city center costs around RM1,606 each month. If I move outside the city center, the rent drops to RM1,130.

In areas like Penang and Selangor, prices can vary. For a larger, furnished apartment of 85 m² (900 sqft), I can expect to pay RM3,769 in an expensive area or RM2,425 in a regular neighborhood.

This makes it easier for me to stay within my monthly budget.

Utilities are also affordable. For two people living in an 85 m² flat, bills for electricity, gas, and water are about RM377 per month. Whether I choose to live in Kuala Lumpur, Penang, or Johor Bahru, the cost of housing and utilities helps keep my overall living costs low.

Finding a good apartment that fits my needs is straightforward, whether I am an expatriate or an international student.

Food and Dining

Eating out in Malaysia is affordable and diverse. I often enjoy a meal at an inexpensive restaurant for just 15 RM. When dining with friends, a three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant costs around 100 RM.

Fast food is also budget-friendly; for example, a McDonald’s combo meal is only 18 RM. If I prefer to cook at home, a gallon of regular milk costs approximately 28.4 RM, and a loaf of fresh white bread is about 3.56 RM.

Enjoying a pint of domestic beer typically sets me back 15.75 RM.

Shopping for groceries is straightforward, and I find great deals at local markets and grocery stores. I often buy fresh ingredients to prepare delicious Malaysian dishes. Prices vary depending on the location and type of store.

Whether I’m grabbing a quick lunch or preparing dinner, my monthly food expenses remain manageable. Public transport helps me explore different dining spots without spending too much on transport.

Living in Malaysia offers a rich culinary experience without breaking the bank.

Transportation and Commuting

I rely on public transportation in Kuala Lumpur. A one-way Rapid KL bus or train ticket costs 3 RM. For regular trips, a monthly pass is just 50 RM. When I need a quick ride, taxis start at 4 RM.

Driving is another option, but gasoline costs 2.13 RM per liter. Owning a car can be pricey too. A new Volkswagen Golf costs around RM154,335. Using the Klang Valley Mass Rapid Transit helps me manage my monthly expenses easily.

Next, I will explore healthcare and insurance.

Healthcare and Insurance

After dealing with transportation costs, let me share about healthcare and insurance in Malaysia. Getting medical care here is affordable. A short visit to a private doctor costs around RM84 for 15 minutes.

Medicines are also cheap. A box of antibiotics with 12 doses is RM32, and cold medicine for six days is just RM14. For personal items, tampons cost RM26 for 32, deodorant is RM13, and shampoo is RM12.

Health insurance is important if you live in Malaysia for international students or as an expat. It helps cover medical bills and gives you peace of mind. The healthcare system is good and easy to access.

Whether you need a routine check-up or emergency care, Malaysia offers quality services without high costs. This makes the total cost of living here more manageable.

Conclusion

Living in Malaysia in 2024 is a smart choice. I enjoy lower costs for rent and daily needs. My money goes further here than in many other countries. The healthcare is good, and the cities are lively.

If you’re planning to move, Malaysia offers a great balance of price and quality.

FAQs

1. What is the average cost of living in Malaysia for internationals in 2024?

Living in Malaysia for international residents costs about USD 1,000 or MYR 4,500 per month. This includes rent, utilities, internet, food, transportation, and entertainment. Cities like Kuala Lumpur and George Town may have higher living costs, while others like Petaling Jaya are more affordable.

2. Which cities in Malaysia are best for expats in terms of cost and quality of life?

Cities like Kuala Lumpur, Penang, George Town, and Petaling Jaya are popular among expats. They offer good healthcare, reliable internet, and various entertainment options. These cities also have vibrant Malaysian cuisine, UNESCO sites, and a high quality of life.

3. What are the main living expenses in Malaysia?

The main expenses in Malaysia include renting, utilities, internet, food, healthcare, transportation, and entertainment. Other costs may be personal care, coffeehouse visits, cooking supplies, and occasional wine. Using public transportation like Rapid Bus can help manage your budget.

4. How is healthcare in Malaysia for expats?

Healthcare in Malaysia is affordable and of high quality. Expats have access to both public and private healthcare services. The cost of healthcare is lower compared to countries like the United States or Italy, making Malaysia an attractive destination for quality care.

5. What should I consider when planning to relocate to Malaysia in 2024?

When relocating, consider the average cost of living, cities to live in, monthly costs, healthcare, internet, and lifestyle choices. Use tools like Expatistan and Numbeo to explore the cost of living. Planning your budget and understanding spending habits are crucial for a smooth move.

6. How can I manage my monthly budget while living in Malaysia?

To manage your budget, plan for rent, utilities, internet, food, transportation, and entertainment. Cook at home, use public transportation like Rapid Bus, and limit spending on extras like coffeehouses or dining out. Tools like Expatistan can help track your living expenses and make informed decisions.