PROPERTY GUIDE
Written by Fazrina Fezili
When it comes to living in Malaysia, most expats immediately think of Kuala Lumpur, Penang, or Langkawi. While these places are undoubtedly attractive, Malaysia has many other hidden spots that offer fantastic lifestyles for expats. Let's explore some of the cheapest places to live in Malaysia that could be perfect for your next home.
Image by The New York Times
Ipoh, the capital of Perak state, is often overshadowed by Malaysia's more well-known cities like Kuala Lumpur and Penang. However, Ipoh offers a unique blend of affordability, cultural richness, and natural beauty that makes it an excellent choice for expats. Here are several reasons why Ipoh should be considered one of the cheapest places to live in Malaysia:
Ipoh is known for its relatively low cost of living, making it an attractive option for expats looking to stretch their budgets.
Dining Costs:
Ipoh has a rich cultural heritage with a blend of colonial architecture, traditional Chinese shophouses, and historical landmarks.
Ipoh is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, including limestone hills, caves, and hot springs.
Click here to see Property list in Ipoh, Perak |
Image by Majlis Bandaraya Kuantan
Kuantan, located on the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia, offers expats pristine beaches and a quieter lifestyle. Here are several compelling reasons why Kuantan is one of the cheapest places to live in Malaysia:
Kuantan boasts a lower cost of living compared to major Malaysian cities, making it an attractive option for expats on a budget.
Dining Costs:
Kuantan is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, including pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and scenic waterfalls.
Kuantan is well-connected to Kuala Lumpur and other major cities via highways and public transportation.
Click here to see Property list in Kuantan, Pahang |
Image by feiranauzder
Alor Setar, the capital of Kedah, offers expats a unique blend of history and rural charm. Here’s why Alor Setar should be on your radar as one of the cheapest places to live in Malaysia:
Alor Setar boasts a significantly lower cost of living compared to major Malaysian cities like Kuala Lumpur and Penang.
The city offers a variety of delicious local dishes that reflect the region’s cultural diversity.
Alor Setar’s strategic location offers easy access to other parts of Malaysia and beyond.
Click here to see Property list in Alor Setar, Kedah |
Miri, located in Sarawak on the island of Borneo, is a vibrant city with a strong expat community. Here are several reasons why Miri stands out as one of the cheapest places for expats to live in Malaysia:
Miri is the gateway to some of Malaysia’s most spectacular natural attractions.
The cost of living in Miri is significantly lower than in Malaysia’s major cities.
Dining Costs:
As an oil town, Miri has a robust economy with opportunities in the oil and gas sector. Additionally, there are growing opportunities in tourism, education, and services.
Click here to see Property list in Miri,Sarawak |
Kota Bharu is the capital of the state of Kelantan, located in the northeastern corner of the peninsula. It is probably the smallest city on our list with around 300,000 residents. Yet, there are many cultural and heritage treasures to be found in the northern part of Malaysia and in Kota Bharu in particular.
Kota Bharu is situated very close to the Thai border, making it convenient for expats who enjoy cross-border travel and exploring different cultures.
Despite its conservatism, Kota Bharu has its benefits, such as natural beauty, sandy beaches, awesome delicacies, warm people, and a low cost of living.
Kota Bharu offers a low cost of living, making it an attractive option for expats on a budget.
Dining Costs:
Click here to see Property list in Kota Bharu, Kelantan |
Living in these cheapest places in Malaysia offers several advantages:
Malaysia offers excellent healthcare facilities, both public and private, which are affordable and internationally accredited. Expats can access high-quality medical care at a fraction of the cost compared to Western countries.
Yes, Malaysia has a range of international schools in major cities and some smaller towns, offering various curricula including British, American, and Australian systems.
Malaysia has good internet connectivity, with high-speed broadband available in most urban and suburban areas. Mobile coverage is also extensive.
Malaysia is generally considered safe for expats, with a low crime rate in most areas. However, it’s always wise to take standard precautions and be aware of your surroundings.
Malaysia offers several visa options for expats, including the Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) program, which provides a long-term visa for those who meet certain financial criteria.
Yes, expats can work in Malaysia, but they will need to obtain an employment pass or work permit. This typically requires a job offer from a Malaysian company.
Malaysia offers a lower cost of living compared to many other Southeast Asian countries like Singapore and Thailand, providing excellent value for money without compromising on quality of life.
Malaysia offers a wide range of recreational activities, from outdoor adventures like hiking and diving to cultural experiences such as visiting historical sites and enjoying local festivals.
Malaysia offers a variety of affordable living options for expats in 2024. In Malaysia, there's always a place that can fit your budget and lifestyle. Each location provides its own unique benefits, making Malaysia a top choice for those looking to live well without breaking the bank. Whether you prefer the historical charm of Ipoh, the serene beaches of Kuantan, the cultural richness of Alor Setar, the natural beauty of Miri, or the quaint appeal of Kota Bharu, there's an affordable and vibrant community waiting for you.
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Article Highlights
Cheapest places to live in Malaysia
expats in Malaysia
affordable living in Malaysia
Ipoh
Kuantan
Alor Setar
Miri
Kota Bharu
Malaysia My Second Home
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