Moving to Macau
Last updated on Dec 05, 2023
Summary: Expats and digital nomads move to Macau for its low taxes, high quality of life, and proximity to other major cities in Asia. The most popular cities for expats and digital nomads in Macau are Taipa, Coloane, and Macau City. People looking for a place to live in Macau can search online for rental listings, contact real estate agents, or look for postings on expat forums.
What do I need to know before moving to Macau?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Macau, they said:
"Before moving to Macau, expats should be aware that the official language is Cantonese, although English is widely spoken. Expats should also be aware that Macau is a very small city, so it is important to plan ahead and research the area before moving. Additionally, Macau is a very safe city, but it is important to be aware of the local laws and customs. Finally, Macau is a very expensive city, so expats should plan their budget accordingly," explained one expat living in Macau.
How do I find a place to live in Macau?
We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:
"Finding a place to live in Macau can be a daunting task. The best way to start is by researching online for rental listings. There are many websites that offer listings for apartments, houses, and other types of accommodation in Macau. Additionally, you can also look for classified ads in local newspapers and magazines. It is also a good idea to contact real estate agents in the area to get more information about available properties. Finally, you can also ask friends and family who live in Macau for advice and recommendations," explained one expat living in Macau.
What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Macau?
"Expat homes and apartments in Macau tend to be modern and luxurious, with high-end appliances and furnishings. Many expats choose to live in high-rise buildings with stunning views of the city and the South China Sea. Expat apartments often come with amenities such as swimming pools, gyms, and saunas. Expats can also find homes and apartments with private gardens, balconies, and terraces. Security is also a priority for many expats, with many buildings offering 24-hour security and CCTV surveillance," commented one expat who made the move to Macau.
What is the average cost of housing in Macau?
If you are thinking about moving to Macau, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:
"The cost of housing in Macau is generally quite high, with the average price for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center being around $2,000 per month. Prices for larger apartments and houses can be significantly higher," explained one expat living in Macau.
Should I buy or rent a home in Macau?
If you have not spent a lot of time in Macau, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:
"When deciding whether to buy or rent a home in Macau, it is important to consider your lifestyle, budget, and long-term plans. Buying a home in Macau can be a great investment, as property values tend to appreciate over time. However, it is important to factor in the cost of maintenance and repairs, as well as the cost of a down payment and closing costs. Renting a home in Macau can be a more affordable option, as it requires less of an upfront investment. Additionally, renting can provide more flexibility, as it allows you to move more easily if your circumstances change. Ultimately, the decision to buy or rent a home in Macau should be based on your individual needs and preferences," explained one expat living in Macau.
What should I pack when moving to Macau?
We asked people living in Macau to list three things they wish they had brought and three they wish they had left behind. They responded:
"When moving to Macau, it is important to pack items that will make your transition to the new city easier. Make sure to bring comfortable clothing for the hot and humid climate, as well as a few items of warmer clothing for the cooler months. It is also important to bring any necessary documents, such as a passport, visa, and any other paperwork related to your move. Additionally, it is a good idea to bring any necessary medications, as well as any items that will help you feel at home, such as photos, books, and other personal items. Finally, make sure to bring any necessary electronics, such as a laptop, phone, and charger," remarked one expat in Macau.
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What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Macau?
We asked people in Macau if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!:
"It is important to be respectful of local customs and traditions when visiting Macau. Avoid making negative comments about the Chinese culture or government, as this could be seen as offensive. Additionally, it is important to dress modestly when visiting religious sites, such as churches and temples. Refrain from taking photos of people without their permission, as this could be seen as intrusive. Finally, it is important to be mindful of the local language and to avoid speaking loudly in public places," said one expat in Macau.
"I probably did, but don't really know about them because I tend to smile sheepishly whenever dealing with a new situation. The locals give me a lot of leeway for not assuming that my way is the right way. I do get laughed at (giggled at?) by locals all the time, in the most random places (McDonald's? grocery store?) - but fair enough, I imagine all my mannerisms are pretty funny to them," remarked one expat who made the move to Macau.
Why do people move to Macau?
When we asked people why foreigners move to Macau, they responded:
"Macau is an attractive destination for expats due to its low tax rates, high quality of life, and vibrant cultural scene. The city is known for its diverse range of attractions, from its world-famous casinos to its stunning architecture and rich history. Macau also offers a wide range of job opportunities, with many multinational companies based in the city. Additionally, Macau is a great place to learn a new language, as it is home to a large number of international schools and universities. With its excellent transport links to mainland China and other parts of Asia, Macau is an ideal destination for expats looking to experience a unique blend of East and West," offered one expat living in Macau.
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How are healthcare services Macau?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Macau, they replied:
"Macau has a comprehensive healthcare system that provides a wide range of services to its citizens and foreign residents. The public healthcare system is managed by the Health Bureau of Macau and is funded by the government. The quality of public healthcare is generally good, with a wide range of services available, including primary care, specialist care, and hospital services. Foreign residents have access to the public healthcare system, although they may need to pay a fee for some services. Expats in Macau can use the public healthcare system, but they may need to pay a fee for some services. Expats can also access private healthcare services, which are generally of a higher quality than the public system," said one expat.
What are medical services in Macau like?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Macau, they replied:
"Macau offers a wide range of medical services, including both public and private hospitals and clinics. The public health care system is provided by the Macau Health Bureau, which offers a range of services including general medical care, specialist care, and emergency services. Private hospitals and clinics offer a range of services, including general medical care, specialist care, and emergency services. Macau also has a number of pharmacies, which provide a range of over-the-counter medications and other health-related products. In addition, Macau has a number of traditional Chinese medicine practitioners, who offer a range of treatments such as acupuncture, herbal medicine, and massage," commented one expat who moved to Macau.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.