94 cities covered · Currency: MYR (RM) · Capital: Kuala Lumpur
| Expense | Estimated cost | Basis |
|---|---|---|
| Meal at an inexpensive restaurant | RM23.91 ($5.09) | per meal |
| Three-course meal for two, mid-range | RM95.65 ($20.35) | per meal |
| Cappuccino | RM7.17 ($1.53) | each |
| Monthly groceries (single person) | RM542 ($115) | per month |
| Monthly public transport pass | RM87.68 ($18.66) | per month |
| Basic utilities for an 85m² apartment | RM231 ($49.18) | per month |
| Internet (60 Mbps, unlimited) | RM66.96 ($14.25) | per month |
| Fitness club membership | RM66.96 ($14.25) | per month |
| Cinema ticket | RM17.54 ($3.73) | each |
| One-bedroom apartment in city centre | RM1,046 ($223) | per month |
| One-bedroom apartment outside centre | RM728 ($155) | per month |
| Three-bedroom apartment in city centre | RM2,184 ($465) | per month |
Kuala Lumpur · pop. 8,911,000
Selangor · pop. 878,000
Perak · pop. 866,772
Perak · pop. 858,118
Pulau Pinang · pop. 815,767
Johor · pop. 797,882
Pulau Pinang · pop. 794,313
Selangor · pop. 638,516
Pahang · pop. 607,778
Selangor · pop. 584,340
Kedah · pop. 544,851
Johor · pop. 534,659
Kelantan · pop. 491,237
Melaka · pop. 455,300
Sabah · pop. 452,058
Negeri Sembilan · pop. 419,536
Sabah · pop. 396,290
Johor · pop. 357,148
Sarawak · pop. 325,132
Johor · pop. 323,762
Terengganu · pop. 255,109
Sarawak · pop. 247,995
Perak · pop. 245,182
Selangor · pop. 236,240
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Malaysia
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Malaysia
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Malaysia
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Malaysia
Living costs in Malaysia vary significantly depending on city size. Large metropolitan areas with populations over one million typically see housing costs 15–30% above the national average, while smaller towns can be 10–20% below it. The national baseline of RM2,322 ($494) per month represents a mid-sized city estimate.
Capital cities and major economic hubs command the highest rents and overall expenses. For budget-conscious residents, mid-sized cities offer a balance of amenities and affordability. Rural and small-town living remains the most economical option, though transport and service access may be limited.