Do you wish to live in a country where you can enjoy city life, great food, and modern comforts—without spending a lot? Malaysia offers exactly that. If you're a student, expat, or working professional, this country will let you live well on a reasonable budget.
What’s great? The cost of living in Malaysia is way lower than Singapore, Dubai, or London—but you still get top-tier infrastructure.
What’s affordable? A full meal at a local eatery? RM 10 (₹180). A furnished one-bedroom apartment in Kuala Lumpur? RM 1,500 (₹27,000).
What’s convenient? Public transport is reliable, and an unlimited monthly pass costs just RM 100 (₹1,800).
How much do you need per month?
Single person: RM 3,000–RM 5,000 (₹54K–₹90K)
Student: RM 2,000–RM 3,500 (₹36K–₹63K)
Family (4 people): RM 7,000–RM 12,000 (₹1.26L–₹2.16L)
If you want a comfortable, modern, yet budget-friendly lifestyle, Malaysia is a fantastic option.
We’ll covers rent, transport, groceries, and daily expenses—so you know exactly what to expect.
Malaysia is a pocket-friendly country with modern infrastructure, reliable public transport, and a thriving food scene. Whether you're a student at Universiti Malaya (UM), an expat working in Cyberjaya’s tech hub, or a family settling in Johor Bahru, your living costs will vary depending on your lifestyle and location.
Rent in Malaysia varies significantly based on location. Kuala Lumpur is the most expensive, while Penang, Johor Bahru, and Kota Kinabalu offer more budget-friendly options.
Where to Live?
Kuala Lumpur: Ideal for professionals & students, but pricier in KLCC, Bangsar, and Mont Kiara.
Penang: Good for families & retirees, with a mix of city life & beaches.
Johor Bahru: Popular with professionals working in Singapore—lower rent but higher living costs.
Kota Kinabalu: Great for nature lovers, with affordable rent & slower pace of life.
Average Monthly Rent in Malaysia (2025)
Accommodation Type
Average Monthly Rent (MYR)
City
Shared Apartment (per room)
RM 500–RM 1,200 (₹9K–₹21.6K)
Good for students in KL, Penang, JB
Studio Apartment
RM 1,200–RM 2,500 (₹21.6K–₹45K)
Popular in KL Sentral, Cyberjaya
1-Bedroom Apartment
RM 1,500–RM 3,000 (₹27K–₹54K)
KLCC, Bangsar, Mont Kiara are costlier
2–3 Bedroom Apartment
RM 2,500–RM 5,500 (₹45K–₹99K)
Suitable for families
Landed House (Bungalow/Terrace Home)
RM 3,500–RM 8,000 (₹63K–₹1.44L)
Found in suburbs like Shah Alam, Petaling Jaya
Conversion rates may vary. Data Source: iProperty Malaysia, Numbeo, Malaysian Rental Market Reports
Before moving in, most landlords require upfront payments, including:
Security deposit: Usually 2 months’ rent + half-month utility deposit.
Advance rent: Some rentals require 1–2 months prepaid rent.
Lease terms: Standard 12-month contracts, but shorter leases cost more.
How to Find Affordable Rent?
University Dorms & Student Housing:Taylor’s University & Sunway University offer on-campus housing at discounted rates.
Serviced Apartments: Popular with expats in KL Sentral & Cyberjaya.
Government Housing (PR1MA): Available for Malaysian citizens at reduced prices.
Rental Platforms: Use Mudah, iProperty, Speedrent for listings.
Cost of Living in Malaysia: Food and Grocery Prices
Malaysia is a food paradise, and the best part? Eating out is often cheaper than cooking at home. Whether you’re grabbing a plate of Nasi Lemak from a roadside stall or dining at a mamak like Nasi Kandar Pelita, meals are affordable.
Eating Out vs Cooking at Home
Street food & hawker stalls: RM 8–RM 15 (₹145–₹270) for a full meal.
Mid-range restaurants: RM 25–RM 50 (₹450–₹900) per meal.
Cooking at home: RM 250–RM 800 (₹4.5K–₹14.4K) per month, depending on your diet.
Local Insight:
Mamak stalls (Roti Canai, Maggi Goreng) & kopitiams (Hainanese Coffee, Kaya Toast) offer meals under RM 10 (₹180).
Imported groceries like cheese & wine are expensive. A block of cheddar can cost RM 25+ (₹450+).
Average Grocery Prices in Malaysia (2025)
Grocery Item
Average Price (MYR)
Where to Buy
Milk (1L)
RM 8–RM 12 (₹145–₹220)
AEON, Tesco (Lotus’s), Village Grocer
Bread (500g)
RM 3–RM 6 (₹55–₹110)
Gardenia, Massimo, Tesco
Eggs (12)
RM 8–RM 15 (₹145–₹270)
Mydin, Giant, AEON Big
Chicken (1kg)
RM 12–RM 18 (₹220–₹325)
Wet Markets, Mydin, Tesco
Beef (1kg, local)
RM 35–RM 50 (₹630–₹900)
AEON, Jaya Grocer, Cold Storage
Rice (5kg)
RM 25–RM 40 (₹450–₹720)
Mydin, Tesco, NSK Trade City
Apples (1kg)
RM 8–RM 15 (₹145–₹270)
Mydin, AEON, Village Grocer
Coffee (200g)
RM 15–RM 30 (₹270–₹540)
Starbucks, Kopi Hainan, Jaya Grocer
Beer (500ml, Tiger/Carlsberg)
RM 12–RM 15 (₹220–₹270)
7-Eleven, Happy Mart, Cold Storage
Conversion rates may vary. Data Source: Numbeo, Malaysian Department of Statistics, AEON Price Tracker
Where to Buy Cheap Groceries?
Mydin & Giant – Best for bulk buying & affordable groceries.
Tesco (Lotus’s) & AEON Big – Mid-range supermarket with regular promotions.
Wet markets (Pasar Pagi & Pasar Malam) – Cheapest fresh vegetables, seafood & meats.
Village Grocer & Jaya Grocer – Higher-end, best for imported goods.
Cost of Living in Malaysia: Transportation
Malaysia has a well-connected public transport system with buses, MRT, LRT, and affordable ride-hailing services like Grab and AirAsia Ride. However, owning a car can be costly due to fuel, tolls, and parking fees.
Tip: Students & seniors get discounts on MRT, LRT, and KTM Komuter tickets!
Cost of Owning a Car in Malaysia
Many locals prefer driving, but cars come with extra expenses like road tax, tolls, and petrol costs.
Expense
Cost (MYR/month)
Notes
Fuel (RON95, per liter)
RM 2.05 (₹37)
Subsidized for locals.
Toll Charges (KL–PJ Commute)
RM 5–RM 15 (₹90–₹270)
Based on distance.
Parking Fees (KLCC Area)
RM 5–RM 15 per hour (₹90–₹270)
Monthly passes available.
Road Tax (1.5L sedan)
RM 90–RM 120 (₹1,620–₹2,160)
Yearly payment.
Insurance (Third-party)
RM 1,200–RM 2,500/year (₹21.6K–₹45K)
Varies by car model.
Conversion rates may vary. Data Source: Malaysian Road Transport Department (JPJ), Grab Malaysia, Public Transport Malaysia
Cycling in Malaysia – Is It Popular?
Limited bike lanes, but cities like Penang, Kuala Lumpur & Putrajaya are becoming more cycle-friendly.
Bike-sharing services (Tryke, oBike) were introduced but faced challenges due to lack of infrastructure.
Best cycling areas: Putrajaya, Penang George Town, Shah Alam & KL Eco City Park.
Thinking of working remotely in Malaysia? Transport costs are low, and many digital nomads find it affordable!
Cost of Living in Malaysia: Monthly Utility Bills and Internet Charges
Utilities in Malaysia are generally affordable, but electricity bills can spike due to air conditioning, especially during hot months. Water and gas are inexpensive, while internet prices depend on speed and provider.
What to Expect Monthly (Apartment for 1–2 people):
Electricity: RM 100–RM 350 (₹1.8K–₹6.3K) depending on AC usage.
Water: RM 10–RM 30 (₹180–₹540) as water is subsidized.
Wi-Fi: RM 89–RM 200 (₹1.6K–₹3.6K) for fiber broadband.
Mobile Plan: RM 30–RM 100 (₹540–₹1.8K) depending on data & calls.
Average Monthly Utility and Internet Costs in Malaysia (2025)
Utility Type
Average Monthly Cost (MYR)
Provider
Electricity
RM 100–RM 350 (₹1.8K–₹6.3K)
TNB (Tenaga Nasional Berhad)
Water & Sewerage
RM 10–RM 30 (₹180–₹540)
SYABAS, Air Selangor
Gas (Cooking Gas Tank)
RM 25–RM 40 (₹450–₹720)
Petronas Gas, Gas Malaysia
Internet (100Mbps–500Mbps)
RM 89–RM 200 (₹1.6K–₹3.6K)
Unifi, Maxis Fibre, TIME, CelcomDigi Fibre
Mobile Plan (Postpaid/Unlimited Data)
RM 30–RM 100 (₹540–₹1.8K)
CelcomDigi, U Mobile, Maxis, Yes 5G
Conversion rates may vary. Data Source: Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB), Malaysian Communications Authority, Internet Provider Websites
Seasonal Differences in Electricity Bills
Hot months (March–August): AC usage increases bills by 30–50%.
Monsoon season (October–January): Bills drop as the weather cools.
High-rise apartments with central cooling systems have slightly lower costs.
Tip: Using energy-saving appliances and setting AC at 24–26°C can cut electricity bills by 15–25%!
Cost of Living in Malaysia: Healthcare Expenses
Malaysia has a world-class healthcare system with both public and private hospitals. Government clinics and hospitals are cheap (sometimes free for locals), while private hospitals offer faster service at a premium.
Public Healthcare (Government Hospitals & Clinics)
Klinik Kesihatan (Public Clinics): RM 1–RM 5 (₹18–₹90) per consultation.
Government Hospitals: RM 30–RM 100 (₹540–₹1.8K) per treatment for non-citizens.
Medications: Low-cost or subsidized for locals.
Private Healthcare (Faster Service & International Standards)
Consultation with GP: RM 50–RM 150 (₹900–₹2.7K).
Private Hospital Visit: RM 200–RM 600 (₹3.6K–₹10.8K) depending on specialization.
Prescription Medicine: RM 20–RM 100 (₹360–₹1.8K).
Average Healthcare Costs in Malaysia (2025)
Healthcare Service
Cost (MYR)
Notes
Government Clinic Visit (Klinik Kesihatan)
RM 1–RM 5 (₹18–₹90)
Very affordable, long wait times.
Private GP Consultation
RM 50–RM 150 (₹900–₹2.7K)
Walk-in or appointment-based.
Specialist Consultation (Private)
RM 150–RM 600 (₹2.7K–₹10.8K)
Example: Gleneagles, Pantai Hospital, KPJ Healthcare.
Hospital Admission (Private)
RM 3,000–RM 10,000 (₹54K–₹1.8L)
Depending on treatment & hospital.
Dental Check-Up
RM 80–RM 300 (₹1.4K–₹5.4K)
Higher costs in private clinics.
Health Insurance (Private, Monthly Premiums)
RM 100–RM 500 (₹1.8K–₹9K)
Based on age & coverage.
Conversion rates may vary. Data Source: Ministry of Health Malaysia, KPJ Healthcare, Gleneagles, Numbeo
Health Insurance in Malaysia (For Expats & Students)
Expats: Need private medical insurance to cover private hospital costs.
Students: Many universities like Taylor’s University, UCSI, Monash Malaysia include health insurance in tuition fees.
Best Providers:AIA, Prudential, Great Eastern, Allianz Malaysia.
Tip:Most employers offer medical insurance that covers basic GP visits & hospitalization.
Cost of Living in Malaysia: Schools and Universities
Malaysia is a popular education hub, offering affordable tuition fees compared to Western countries. It has top-ranked public and private universities, including Universiti Malaya (UM), Monash University Malaysia, and Taylor’s University.
Tuition Fees for International Students (Annual Cost in MYR)
Public universities: RM 10,000–RM 25,000 (₹1.8L–₹4.5L) per year.
Private universities: RM 25,000–RM 60,000 (₹4.5L–₹10.8L) per year.
Medical & Engineering Programs: RM 40,000–RM 100,000 (₹7.2L–₹18L) per year.
Are There Scholarships or Government Funding Options?
Scholarship Type
Scholarship Name
Eligibility
Benefits
Malaysian Government Scholarships
MyBrainSc, JPA Scholarships
Malaysian citizens
Covers tuition fees, living allowance, and research grants
University-Specific Scholarships
Monash High Achiever Awards, UCSI Trust Scholarship
International & local students
Tuition fee waivers, partial scholarships
Regional & Global Grants
ASEAN Scholarships, EMGS Grants
ASEAN & international students
Tuition assistance, accommodation support
Curious about the cost of studying abroad? Compare tuition fees, living expenses, and funding options for Indian students.
Need financial aid? Explore top scholarships that can help fund your education abroad!
Education Costs in Malaysia (2025)
Education Type
Annual Cost (MYR)
Notes
Public Primary & Secondary Schools
Free
For Malaysian citizens only.
Private Primary Schools
RM 10,000–RM 30,000 (₹1.8L–₹5.4L)
International schools are pricier.
Private Secondary Schools
RM 15,000–RM 50,000 (₹2.7L–₹9L)
Example: Sri KDU, Garden International School.
Public University (Bachelor’s Degree)
RM 10,000–RM 25,000 (₹1.8L–₹4.5L)
Lower for Malaysian citizens.
Private University (Bachelor’s Degree)
RM 25,000–RM 60,000 (₹4.5L–₹10.8L)
Example: Sunway, UCSI, Taylor’s.
Medical Degree (MBBS, Private)
RM 40,000–RM 100,000 (₹7.2L–₹18L)
More expensive in IMU, Newcastle Malaysia.
PhD Programs
Free–RM 30,000 (₹0–₹5.4L)
Many PhD students receive research grants.
Conversion rates may vary. Data Source: Ministry of Higher Education Malaysia (MOHE), Education Malaysia Global Services (EMGS), Public University Websites
Cost of Living in Malaysia: Entertainment and Leisure
Malaysia offers exciting entertainment options, from street food in Jalan Alor to theme parks like Sunway Lagoon. You can enjoy affordable leisure activities, but premium experiences like fine dining and concerts cost more.
Fitness memberships: RM 100–RM 300 (₹1.8K–₹5.4K) per month (Fitness First, CHi Fitness, Celebrity Fitness).
Average Entertainment & Leisure Costs in Malaysia (2025)
Activity
Average Cost (MYR)
Notes
Street Food (Per Meal)
RM 5–RM 15 (₹90–₹270)
Nasi Lemak, Roti Canai, Char Kuey Teow.
Mid-Range Restaurant
RM 25–RM 60 (₹450–₹1.1K)
Popular in Bangsar, Pavilion KL.
Movie Ticket (Standard 2D)
RM 15–RM 25 (₹270–₹450)
GSC, TGV, MBO Cinemas.
Theme Park (Sunway Lagoon, LEGOLAND)
RM 80–RM 200 (₹1.4K–₹3.6K)
Tickets for Sunway Lagoon, Genting Highlands.
Gym Membership (Monthly)
RM 100–RM 300 (₹1.8K–₹5.4K)
Fitness First, CHi Fitness, Anytime Fitness.
Concert Ticket (Axiata Arena, Stadium Bukit Jalil)
RM 150–RM 500 (₹2.7K–₹9K)
Based on artist & seating.
Nightclub & Bar Cover Charges
RM 30–RM 80 (₹540–₹1.4K)
Clubs like Zouk KL, Iron Fairies, Marini’s on 57.
Conversion rates may vary. Data Source: Malaysian Department of Tourism, Numbeo, Entertainment Venue Listings
How to Enjoy Malaysia on a Budget?
Visit Free Attractions: Petronas Towers, Batu Caves, Perdana Botanical Gardens.
Use Discounts: Student deals at GSC & TGV cinemas save up to 50%.
Eat Like a Local: Mamak stalls & food courts offer full meals for under RM 10 (₹180).
Look for Festival Events: Many free concerts, cultural shows & museum days year-round.
What is the Average Income in Malaysia?
Salaries in Malaysia depend on industry, experience, and location. Kuala Lumpur pays the highest, while cities like Penang and Johor Bahru offer lower wages but cheaper living costs.
For a RM 5,000 (₹89K) salary, here’s a typical monthly budget:
Example Budget Allocation (RM 5,000 Income)
Expense Category
Estimated Cost (MYR)
Estimated Cost (INR)
% of Salary
Rent (1-bedroom in KL)
RM 1,500
₹26.7K
30%
Utilities (Electricity, Wi-Fi, Water, Gas)
RM 250
₹4.4K
5%
Groceries
RM 600
₹10.7K
12%
Transport (MRT, Fuel, Toll)
RM 300
₹5.3K
6%
Dining Out & Entertainment
RM 800
₹14.2K
16%
Healthcare & Insurance
RM 300
₹5.3K
6%
Savings & Investments
RM 1,000
₹17.8K
20%
Miscellaneous (Gym, Shopping, Subscriptions)
RM 250
₹4.4K
5%
Total Expenses
RM 5,000
₹89K
100%
How Does the Cost of Living in Malaysia’s Cities Compare?
Malaysia offers a mix of affordable and high-end living, depending on the city. Kuala Lumpur ranks as the most expensive due to high rent and lifestyle costs, while cities like Ipoh and Kota Kinabalu provide a much lower cost of living. According to the Malaysian Department of Statistics (2025), Kuala Lumpur’s living expenses are 30–40% higher than other major cities in the country.
Average Monthly Cost of Living by City (2025)
City
Average Monthly Living Cost (MYR)
Differences
Kuala Lumpur
RM 4,500–RM 7,000 (₹80K–₹1.25L)
High rent, best salaries, major business hub (Numbeo, 2025).
Penang
RM 3,000–RM 5,000 (₹53K–₹89K)
Lower rent, great street food, tech & manufacturing jobs (DOSM, 2025).
Johor Bahru
RM 3,200–RM 5,500 (₹57K–₹98K)
Lower costs, close to Singapore, popular for expats (iProperty Malaysia, 2025).
Ipoh
RM 2,500–RM 4,000 (₹44K–₹71K)
Quiet, affordable, best for retirees & remote workers (Malaysian Property Market Report, 2025).
Kota Kinabalu
RM 3,000–RM 4,500 (₹53K–₹80K)
Lower rent, great outdoor activities, fewer corporate jobs (Numbeo, 2025).
Conversion rates may vary. Data Source: Numbeo, Malaysian Department of Statistics, iProperty Malaysia (2025).
Best Cities Based on Affordability & Lifestyle
For Students: Penang, Johor Bahru – affordable rent, good universities.
For Professionals: Kuala Lumpur, Johor Bahru – highest salaries.
For Retirees & Digital Nomads: Ipoh, Kota Kinabalu – cheapest lifestyle, relaxed pace.
How Does Malaysia’s Cost of Living Compare to Other Asian Countries?
Malaysia is one of the most affordable countries in Asia, ranking lower in cost compared to Singapore, Hong Kong, Japan, and UAE while offering better infrastructure and salaries than Thailand and Vietnam (Global Cost of Living Index, 2025).
Cost Comparisons (DOSM, 2025):
Rent: 60–70% lower than Singapore, 40% lower than Japan.
Food: 30% cheaper than South Korea, but 10–15% more than Vietnam.
Transport: Public transport is cheap, but car ownership is costly due to taxes.
Healthcare: More affordable than UAE, but not as subsidized as Thailand.
Planning to study or work in Malaysia? Estimating your monthly budget is important to avoid unexpected expenses. The upGrad Abroad Expense Calculator helps students and professionals accurately plan their costs based on city, lifestyle, and study choices.
What Does It Cover?
Tuition Fees – Compare costs across universities.
Accommodation – On-campus vs. off-campus living.
Food & Dining – Grocery vs. eating out expenses.
Transport – Public transport, ride-hailing, or car ownership.
Entertainment & Lifestyle – Gym, Wi-Fi, movies, social activities.
Mobile & Internet – Different plans based on usage.
Why Use It? Compare living expenses across different Malaysian cities. Get a real-time estimate before moving. Avoid hidden costs and plan your finances properly.
Should You Move to Malaysia?
Pros:
Lower Cost of Living – 60% cheaper than Singapore (Numbeo, 2025).
Budget-Friendly Rent & Food – RM 1,500 (₹26.7K) for an apartment.
Good Transport – MRT, LRT, RapidKL in major cities.
English Widely Spoken – Easy for expats.
Cons:
Traffic & High Car Costs – Import taxes increase prices.
Limited Free Healthcare for Expats – Private insurance needed.
FAQs on Cost of Living in Malaysia in 2025
Is Malaysia an affordable place to live compared to Singapore and Hong Kong?
Yes, Malaysia is much cheaper than Singapore and Hong Kong. Rent in Kuala Lumpur is around RM 1,500-2,500 (₹26,000-₹44,000) per month, whereas in Singapore, it's SGD 3,000+ (₹1.85L) and in Hong Kong, it can go up to HKD 20,000+ (₹2.1L). Food, transportation, and utilities are also more affordable in Malaysia.
What is the minimum salary needed to live comfortably in Malaysia?
A single person needs at least RM 6,000-8,000 (₹1.05L-₹1.40L) per month, while a family of four requires around RM 12,000-15,000 (₹2.1L-₹2.6L) per month, depending on location and lifestyle.
How much do student dorms cost in Malaysia?
On-campus housing ranges from RM 300-800 per month (₹5,300-₹14,000), while private student housing in Kuala Lumpur costs RM 900-1,500 (₹16,000-₹26,000) per month.
Are there budget-friendly supermarkets in Malaysia?
Yes, supermarkets like Mydin, Tesco, Giant, and AEON Big offer cheaper groceries. Monthly grocery expenses for a single person range from RM 500-1,000 (₹8,800-₹17,600).
Can I live in Malaysia without knowing Malay?
Yes, English is widely spoken in cities like Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Johor Bahru. Malay is useful in smaller towns, but it’s not necessary for daily life.
Is it cheaper to own a car or use public transport?
Public transport is cheaper—an LRT monthly pass costs RM 100 (₹1,800). Owning a car involves fuel, insurance, and road tax, costing around RM 8,000-12,000 per year (₹1.4L-₹2.1L).
Which is the most affordable city to live in Malaysia?
George Town (Penang) and Ipoh offer lower rent and living costs than Kuala Lumpur. Johor Bahru is also affordable, especially for those working in Singapore.
How much does it cost to eat at a mid-range restaurant in Malaysia?
A three-course meal for two costs RM 80-150 (₹1,400-₹2,600), while a single meal at a casual restaurant is RM 10-20 (₹180-₹350).
What are the income tax rates in Malaysia for expats?
Expats staying less than 182 days are taxed 30% on income. Those staying longer qualify for resident tax rates ranging from 0% to 30%, based on income.
Is healthcare expensive for foreigners in Malaysia?
Public healthcare is not free for expats. A general check-up costs RM 80-150 (₹1,400-₹2,600), and private health insurance ranges from RM 2,000-5,000 per year (₹35,000-₹88,000).
How much does a gym membership cost in Malaysia?
Budget gyms charge RM 80-150 per month (₹1,400-₹2,600), while premium gyms like Fitness First cost RM 200-350 per month (₹3,500-₹6,200).
Are there hidden costs when renting an apartment in Malaysia?
Yes, apart from rent, tenants usually pay a two-month security deposit, utility deposits, and service charges for condos. Utilities cost RM 200-400 per month (₹3,500-₹7,000).
Can I find second-hand furniture and electronics at a low cost?
Yes, platforms like Carousell, Mudah.my, and Facebook Marketplace offer affordable second-hand furniture and appliances.
What is the best way to transfer money internationally for expats in Malaysia?
Services like Wise (TransferWise), Revolut, and Western Union provide lower fees compared to banks, with rates as low as 0.5% per transaction.
How much does childcare or daycare cost in Malaysia?
Full-time daycare costs RM 800-1,500 per month (₹14,000-₹26,000). International schools charge RM 30,000-80,000 per year (₹5.3L-₹14L).
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