Why Expatriates Choose Johor Bahru: Expat Life In Malaysia
Searching for the perfect place to live as an expat isn’t easy. From my own journey, I understand the challenge of finding a spot that feels like home and makes financial sense. Johor Bahru stood out during my search—a unique blend of affordability and proximity to high-paying jobs in Singapore really set it apart.
This post is your guide to understanding why many opt for JB over other locations, highlighting everything from economic advantages to lifestyle benefits. If you’re curious to learn more, keep reading!
Key Takeaways
- Johor Bahru offers a low cost of living with rent starting at $300, making it affordable for expats. A couple can live comfortably on about $1,700 a month.
- The city is near Singapore, letting people work in high-paying jobs there while enjoying cheaper living costs in Malaysia.
- Expats enjoy a lively community and social life in Johor Bahru. There are many events and places to meet new friends.
- Johor Bahru has international schools and modern amenities close by, making it easy for families to find good education for their kids.
- Living in Johor Bahru means being part of a growing city with lots of shops, eateries serving local and global dishes, and fun activities happening all the time.
Economic Advantages of Living in Johor Bahru
Living in Johor Bahru saves money. You spend less on your home and everyday things than in nearby Singapore. With the city so close to Singapore, many find good jobs there while paying less to live here.
Lower Cost of Living compared to Singapore
In Johor Bahru, I save a lot more money than I ever did in Singapore. Rent for a cozy two-bedroom place with fun stuff like a pool and gym starts at just $300! That’s way less than the tiny places over in Singapore.
Plus, eating out is cheap here. You can have delicious meals without spending much.
A couple can live comfortably in JB on about $1,700 a month.
No need to stress over bills or rent as much here. And when friends visit from Singapore, they’re shocked at how far their dollars go in JB’s malls and eateries. Moving to Malaysia was smart for my wallet and lifestyle.
Comparison table for the cost of living between Johor Bahru, Malaysia, and Singapore.
| Expense Category | Johor Bahru (Approx. USD) | Singapore (Approx. USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (Rent) | $300 – $1,000 | $1,500 – $3,000 |
| Utilities | $50 – $100 | $100 – $200 |
| Groceries | $150 – $300 | $300 – $600 |
| Transportation | $50 – $100 | $100 – $200 |
| Dining Out | $100 – $200 | $200 – $400 |
| Healthcare | $30 – $100 | $200 – $400 |
| Total Monthly Cost | $680 – $1,800 | $2,300 – $4,800 |
Key Differences:
- Housing: Singapore’s housing costs are significantly higher than those in Johor Bahru. This includes both renting and buying property.
- Utilities and Groceries: The cost for utilities and groceries in Singapore is typically higher due to higher standards of living and import dependency.
- Transportation: Singapore has a well-developed public transport system which is efficient but can be costlier than in Johor Bahru, where private vehicle use is more common due to less extensive public transport options.
- Healthcare: Singapore offers high-standard healthcare services which are more expensive compared to Johor Bahru. However, both places provide quality medical care.
- Overall Living Cost: Living in Johor Bahru can be significantly cheaper, making it an attractive option for expatriates who work in Singapore but choose to reside in Malaysia for cost benefits.
This table is an approximation based on general living expenses in both locations as of 2024. Costs can vary significantly based on lifestyle, location within the city, and personal circumstances.
Proximity to High-Paying Jobs in Singapore
Living in JB, I find it easy to work in Singapore because the two places are close. Every day, many people travel across bridges between Malaysia and Singapore. This is great for folks looking for jobs that pay well.
Singapore’s strong economy offers many opportunities that can be hard to find in other places.
I see friends who stay in Johar but catch a bus or drive their car to work in Singapore during rush hour. They do this because they can make more money there while spending less on living costs back home.
The border town setup means we get the best of both worlds – higher salaries over there and lower expenses here. Plus, being an expat in Malaysia with a job in Singapore gives a special chance to enjoy life fully without worrying about money too much.
Lifestyle and Community Benefits for Expatriates
Living in Johor Bahru brings a lot of perks for expats. The city is full of life, offering many places to meet new people and make friends. Whether you’re into food, shopping, or outdoor activities, you’ll find lots to do here.
Plus, with so many international schools around, families can feel at ease knowing their kids will get a good education while they live abroad.
Vibrant Expat Community and Social life
I moved here thinking I’d stay just six weeks. Four months later, I’m still enjoying Johor Bahru’s vibes. The expat community is huge and welcoming. You’ll find events for everyone, from moms with babies to folks looking to unwind by the harbor.
Puteri Harbor is a spot we all love, especially on weekends. It has this cool fountain and a sandy area where kids can play while we take in the beautiful view.
The social life in Johor Bahru keeps me busy too. There are meet-ups almost every day of the week! Whether you’re into trying out JB’s best food or just want to hang out at city square spots, there’s always something going on.
Making Malaysian friends was easy and helped me settle in fast. They showed me around and taught me a bit of Bahasa Malaysia, making life here feel like home.
Availability of International Schools and Modern Amenities
Living in Johor Bahru makes finding a good school for my kids easy. Schools like Raffles American School and Sunway International School are just around the corner from Sunway Big Box.
There’s also Stellar International School and a Montessori preschool close by, which means lots of options. These schools teach in English and offer an international curriculum that prepares students for the future.
For everyday needs, everything is within reach too. Great places to eat, like Nagi Japanese, RT Cafe, and Spice Grill at Puteri Harbor, are here. I can walk five minutes to get groceries from Pasar, Fresh Mark, or Ben’s Independent Grocer.
Living here feels convenient with all these modern comforts close by.
Here’s a table listing some of the top international schools and universities in Johor, Malaysia. These institutions are recognized for their educational offerings and are popular among expatriates and locals alike.
International Schools in Johor
| School Name | Curriculum Offered | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|
| Marlborough College Malaysia | British | Offers a broad co-curricular programme |
| Excelsior International School | International Baccalaureate (IB) | Emphasizes holistic education |
| Raffles American School | American | Features extensive sports facilities |
| Sunway International School | Canadian (Ontario Curriculum) and IB | Well-equipped with modern technology |
| Austin Heights International School | British and Malaysian National Curriculum | Focuses on character building and leadership |
Universities in Johor
| University Name | Programs Offered | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|
| University of Technology, Malaysia (UTM) | Engineering, Science, Technology, Business | One of Malaysia’s leading engineering and technology universities |
| Newcastle University Medicine Malaysia (NUMed) | Biomedical Sciences, Medicine | UK-based curriculum, focus on healthcare |
| Raffles University Iskandar | Design, Business, Psychology | Known for design and business programs |
| Multimedia University (MMU) Johor | IT, Multimedia, Business, Engineering | Strong focus on IT and multimedia studies |
| Southern University College | Business, Art, Social Science | Offers a range of diverse programs |
These institutions are renowned for their quality of education and facilities, catering to both local and international students. They offer a variety of curriculums and programs to meet diverse educational needs.
Here’s a table summarizing the best places to live in Johor, which are near the top international schools and universities mentioned earlier:
| Residential Area | Key Features | Proximity to Educational Institutions | Estimated Monthly Cost of Living (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Iskandar Puteri (Nusajaya) | Modern amenities, close to EduCity, high quality of life | Marlborough College Malaysia, Raffles American School, Newcastle University Medicine Malaysia (NUMed) | $1,200 – $2,500 |
| Horizon Hills | Gated community, safety, luxury, golf course | Marlborough College Malaysia, Raffles American School | $1,500 – $3,000 |
| Bukit Indah | Strategic location, near shopping and dining, well-connected | Schools in Iskandar Puteri, Multimedia University (MMU) Johor | $1,000 – $2,000 |
| Mount Austin | Vibrant area, variety of dining and leisure activities, diverse housing options | Austin Heights International School, Sunway International School | $900 – $1,800 |
| Medini | Modern urban township, focus on sustainability, less congested | Close to EduCity, including Raffles University Iskandar | $1,100 – $2,200 |
Cost Breakdown
- Housing: This will be the most significant portion of the cost of living, with rental prices varying greatly based on the type and size of property.
- Utilities: Includes electricity, water, and internet services, which can differ based on consumption and service providers.
- Groceries and Dining: Costs will vary depending on whether you frequently dine out or cook at home.
- Transportation: Expenses here depend on whether you use public transport or have your own vehicle.
This range provides a broad idea of what to expect in terms of living expenses in these areas, but actual costs can vary significantly based on personal lifestyle and family size.
Top Healthcare Facilities in Johor for Expatriates
Johor has several high-quality healthcare facilities that are popular among expatriates due to their excellent services and English-speaking staff. Here’s a list of some of the top healthcare institutions in Johor that are well-equipped to cater to the needs of expats:
| Hospital Name | Location | Services Offered | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gleneagles Medini Hospital | Iskandar Puteri | Multispecialty care, surgical services | Part of the renowned Parkway Pantai group, modern facilities, close to Singapore |
| Columbia Asia Hospital | Tebrau | General medicine, pediatrics, orthopedics | Accessible location, comprehensive diagnostic services |
| KPJ Puteri Specialist Hospital | Johor Bahru | Cardiology, dermatology, women’s health | Well-established private healthcare provider in Malaysia |
| Regency Specialist Hospital | Iskandar Puteri | Emergency care, oncology, pediatrics | 24-hour emergency care, advanced medical technology |
| Thomson Hospital Kota Damansara | Johor Bahru | Comprehensive medical services, wellness programs | Renowned for its maternity and pediatric care, holistic approach to health |
These hospitals are known for their high standards of medical care and have a good reputation among the expatriate community in Johor. They offer a wide range of services from routine health check-ups to specialized medical treatments and emergency services.
Conclusion Why Expatriates Choose Johor Bahru
So, we’ve talked a lot about why I and many others decide to call Johor Bahru home. It’s got so much going for it – the cost of living is way less than in Singapore, but you can still make good money if you work there because it’s right next door.
There’s a ton of cool places to hang out, lots of other expats to meet, and schools that are great for kids from all over the world.
The city itself has grown so much with new shops, places to eat that serve both local dishes like Laksa Johor and food from around the globe, and there’s always something fun happening.
Plus, getting around Southeast Asia is super easy with airports close by.
Honestly? Choosing JB felt like hitting the jackpot. Great lifestyle without spending tons, friendly faces everywhere, delicious eats day and night – what’s not to love? It really does have everything an expat could ask for.
