×
Interested in our Partner Program for businesses or our Local Guide Program for experienced expats and digital nomads? Click here to learn more.
Expat Exchange
Free MembershipSign In

A New Home in Malaysia ?

11 years ago
Hi everyone! I'm an Asian Canadian male, who has spent most of his adult life and has worked only in the US, thus my retirement accounts are also only in the US. I'm in my middle age and considering to move overseas mainly for the financial reason. I used to work as a sub teacher for public schools in California and, looking long-term, my retirement funds are simply too skimpy to allow me to live in North America.

I've been researching lately and learned Malaysia is one of the cheapest destinations for retirement overseas. Of course, I'm also interested in local culture. Since money is the main (despite not only) reason I'm considering this option, I'd like to know just how much it will cost to live there.

Below is the cost of living in Kuala Lumpur and Penang. Please advise how accurate they are.

http://www.numbeo.com/cost-of-living/city_result.jsp?country=Malaysia&city=Kuala+Lumpur&displayCurrency=USD

http://www.numbeo.com/cost-of-living/city_result.jsp?country=Malaysia&city=Penang&displayCurrency=USD

It appears it’s not cheap in Kuala Lumpur any more, if this information is realistic, especially rent / real estate, basic utilities and internet. I’m wondering what the differences are between these two cities ? Are there any other good alternatives?

My main concerns are:
1) rent / real estate prices
2) how easy / difficult to get a tourist / PR visa?
3) Is it possible for expat to get jobs there since I still need to work. Unless I can afford a piece of real estate and rent out rooms, but I prefer to work.
4) Are they tax / expat friendly?
5) Low crime
6) Affordable and good quality medical care.

A few other concerns:
(in random order)
Warm weather (80 degree F is the optimum temperature to me, and I'd rather hot than cold, ideally not too humid)
Easy access to beach and mountains,
Has affordable gyms with at least doable equipments,
Clean, with good infrastructure
Reliable, at least not too bad internet / cell phone services
English-friendly is a plus, but not a must

I know these are a lot of questions / concerns, and these are the ideal. Please feel free to respond to any of them. Much obliged!

GeoBlue
GeoBlue

GeoBlue
GeoBlue

Top-quality coverage for people who live, work, study and travel internationally.
Get Quote

GeoBlueGeoBlue

Top-quality coverage for people who live, work, study and travel internationally.
Get Quote

Living in Malaysia GuideLiving in Malaysia Guide

Expats in Malaysia agree that living in Malaysia has its pros and cons. Expats love the welcoming Malay people, cultural diversity, lower cost of living and amazing food.

Malaysia Forum Malaysia Forum
Join our Malaysia forum to meet other expats and talk about living in Malaysia.

Contribute to Malaysia Network Contribute
Help other expats and newcomers by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Malaysia.

Best Places to Live in Malaysia Best Places to Live in Malaysia

If you're dreaming about living in Malaysia, here are the 15 Best Places to Live in Malaysia in 2023.

Healthcare in MalaysiaHealthcare in Malaysia

Expats in Malaysia recommend that newcomers talk to friends and learn about the best hospitals, clinics and doctors in their area before a medical emergency arises.

Cost of Living in MalaysiaCost of Living in Malaysia

Expats offer insight into the cost of living in Malaysia.

Moving to MalaysiaMoving to Malaysia Guide

Expats are attracted to Malaysia's lower cost of living, bustling cities, multicultural vibe, climate and proximity to Singapore. Many expat retirees take advantage of the Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) program.

Real Estate in MalaysiaReal Estate in Malaysia

Real estate listings in popular cities and towns in Malaysia.

Pros Cons of Living in MalaysiaPros & Cons of Living in Malaysia

Take off your rose-colored glasses and learn what expats have to say about the biggest challenges and the greatest rewards of living in Malaysia.

Retiring in MalaysiaRetiring in Malaysia

Advice for people retiring in Malaysia.

10 Tips for Living in Malaysia10 Tips for Living in Malaysia

If you've recently arrived in Malaysia, here are 10 tips for digital nomads living in Malaysia.

GeoBlue
GeoBlue

Top-quality coverage for people who live, work, study and travel internationally.
Get Quote

GeoBlueGeoBlue

Top-quality coverage for people who live, work, study and travel internationally.
Get Quote

Contribute to Malaysia Network Contribute
Help others in Malaysia by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Malaysia.

GeoBlue
GeoBlue

Copyright 1997-2024 Burlingame Interactive, Inc.

Privacy Policy Legal Partners & Local Guides