Cost of Living in Johor Bahru

Monthly Budget for Retirees in Johor Bahru

"The cost of living in Johor Bahru is generally considered to be quite affordable. Groceries, transportation, and utilities are all relatively inexpensive, while rent and dining out can be more expensive. Overall, the cost of living in Johor Bahru is lower than in many other cities in Malaysia," said one expat living in Johor Bahru.

Can I live in Johor Bahru on $1,500 a month?

"I've been living in Johor Bahru for a while now, and I can tell you that it's definitely possible to live comfortably on $1,500 a month, but you'll have to make some sacrifices and adjustments. First, you'll need to find an affordable place to live. Some of the more affordable neighborhoods in Johor Bahru include Tampoi, Skudai, and Permas Jaya. These areas have a good mix of local amenities and are not too far from the city center. On the other hand, you might want to avoid more expensive neighborhoods like Danga Bay, Puteri Harbour, and Medini, as the cost of living there can be significantly higher.When it comes to transportation, owning a car can be quite expensive due to the high import taxes on vehicles. Instead, consider using public transportation like buses or taxis, or even ride-sharing services like Grab. This will help you save a significant amount on transportation costs.For groceries and dining out, you'll need to adjust your expectations and be open to trying local food options. Eating at local hawker centers and food courts can be very affordable and delicious, but you might have to give up some of your favorite Western dishes or be prepared to pay a premium for them at more upscale restaurants.In terms of entertainment and leisure activities, there are plenty of affordable options in Johor Bahru. You can visit local parks, shopping malls, and night markets for a low-cost day out. However, if you're used to frequenting high-end bars, clubs, or attending expensive events, you'll need to cut back on those activities to stay within your budget.Lastly, you'll need to be mindful of your utility usage, as electricity and water bills can add up quickly if you're not careful. Make sure to turn off lights and appliances when not in use, and try to limit your air conditioning usage, as that can be a major expense in this tropical climate.Overall, living comfortably on $1,500 a month in Johor Bahru is achievable, but it will require some adjustments and sacrifices. By being open to new experiences and being mindful of your spending, you can make it work and enjoy your time in this vibrant city," commented an expat living in Johor Bahru.

Can I live in Johor Bahru on $3,500 a month?

"I've been living in Johor Bahru for a few years now, and I can tell you that it's definitely possible to live comfortably on $3,000 a month, even if you're used to modern amenities. However, you might have to make a few sacrifices to make it work. For example, you might not be able to afford a luxurious condo in one of the more expensive neighborhoods, like Danga Bay or Puteri Harbour. Instead, you could consider more affordable areas like Tampoi, Skudai, or Permas Jaya. These neighborhoods still offer a good quality of life, with access to shopping malls, restaurants, and other amenities, but at a more reasonable cost.In terms of housing, you can find a decent apartment or house for around $500 to $1,000 per month, depending on the size and location. If you're willing to share a place with roommates, you can save even more on rent. Utilities and internet should cost you around $100 to $150 per month, depending on your usage.When it comes to transportation, owning a car can be quite expensive due to the high import taxes on vehicles. However, you can save money by using public transportation, such as buses and taxis, or by renting a scooter or motorcycle. If you do decide to buy a car, be prepared to spend around $300 to $500 per month on fuel, maintenance, and insurance.Eating out in Johor Bahru can be quite affordable, especially if you stick to local food at hawker centers and food courts. You can expect to spend around $5 to $10 per meal, depending on the type of food and the location. If you prefer to cook at home, groceries will cost you around $200 to $300 per month, depending on your dietary preferences.Entertainment and leisure activities can also be quite affordable in Johor Bahru. A movie ticket will cost you around $4, while a gym membership can be as low as $30 per month. If you enjoy traveling, you can take advantage of the city's proximity to Singapore and other nearby destinations for weekend getaways.Overall, living in Johor Bahru on a $3,000 per month budget is definitely doable, but you'll need to be mindful of your spending and make some sacrifices in terms of housing and transportation. By choosing a more affordable neighborhood and being smart about your expenses, you can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle while still having access to modern amenities," said one expat living in Johor Bahru.

Can I live in Johor Bahru on $5,000 a month?

"I've been living in Johor Bahru for a few years now, and I can tell you that it's definitely possible to live comfortably on $5,000 a month, even if you're used to modern amenities. In fact, you might not have to make too many sacrifices at all. The cost of living here is generally lower than in many Western countries, so your money will go further.When it comes to housing, you can find a nice apartment or even a small house in a decent neighborhood for around $1,000 to $1,500 a month. Some of the more affordable neighborhoods to consider are Taman Pelangi, Taman Sentosa, and Taman Sri Tebrau. These areas are quite popular among expats and have a good mix of local and international amenities.If you're looking for something more upscale, you might want to check out neighborhoods like Horizon Hills, East Ledang, or Puteri Harbour. These areas have more luxurious properties and are closer to international schools, but the rent can be quite a bit higher, sometimes reaching $2,500 to $3,000 a month.As for other expenses, you'll find that groceries, dining out, and transportation are all quite affordable. You can easily get by on a few hundred dollars a month for groceries, and eating out at local restaurants is usually very cheap. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Grab are also quite inexpensive, so getting around the city won't break the bank.One thing to keep in mind is that if you have children, international school fees can be quite high, sometimes reaching $1,000 a month or more per child. However, if you don't have kids or if they attend local schools, this won't be an issue for you.Overall, I think you'll find that living in Johor Bahru on $5,000 a month is not only doable but also quite comfortable. You'll be able to enjoy a good quality of life without having to make too many sacrifices," commented an expat living in Johor Bahru.