Living in Malaysia: Affordable Luxury for Expatriates
With its tropical climate, quality of life, and lower cost of living compared to Western countries, Malaysia is attracting more and more expatriates and investors. But specifically, how much does life in Malaysia cost compared to the West? This detailed comparison will help you better understand why so many foreigners choose to settle here.
Housing: Rents up to 70% cheaper
The price of rent in Malaysia is one of the main factors of attraction. While a 70 m² apartment in the city center costs between 1,500 and 3,000 MYR (300-600 €), an equivalent accommodation in Paris, London, or New York can easily exceed 2,500 €.
🔹 Example: A modern studio in Kuala Lumpur can be rented for 250 to 400 € per month, compared to 1,500 € in Paris or 2,500 € in New York.
📌 Discover real estate investment services in Malaysia
Food and restaurants: Eat well for less than 5 €
Local food products are very affordable, especially in markets. A complete meal in a local restaurant costs about 10-15 MYR (2-3 €) compared to 15-20 € in Europe.
🔹 Supermarket vs. local market: Buying fruits, vegetables, and meats at the market reduces your food budget by 30 to 50%.
Transportation: Unbeatable cost for optimal mobility
Malaysia offers an efficient and inexpensive transport network: • Grab (equivalent to Uber) costs on average 50% less than in Europe. • AirAsia allows you to travel throughout Asia for just a few dozen euros. • The metro and buses in Kuala Lumpur rarely cost more than 1 € per trip.
Health: Quality care at reduced prices
Malaysia has a very competitive private healthcare system. A consultation with a general practitioner costs less than 10 €, and health insurance for expatriates is up to 70% cheaper than in Western countries.
Leisure and quality of life: Accessible luxury and relaxation
In Malaysia, leisure activities remain affordable: • High-end gym: 20-40 € per month. • Cinema: 3-5 € per ticket. • Excursions and travel: Many paradise destinations at low prices.
Conclusion: Malaysia, an economic and strategic choice
With a cost of living up to 60% lower than in the West, Malaysia represents an attractive alternative for expatriates and investors. Between affordable housing, inexpensive food, and accessible services, it is possible to live comfortably on a reduced budget.
Are you considering settling in Malaysia? 📩 Contact us to benefit from personalized advice on your expatriation project or real estate investment.