Living in Myanmar
Last updated on Jan 10, 2024
Summary: People describe life in Myanmar as a unique and vibrant experience. Expats love the culture, the friendly people, the delicious food, and the beautiful scenery. The average cost of living for an expat is around $1,000 to $1,500 per month. This includes rent, food, transportation, and other expenses. The population of Myanmar is approximately 54 million people. The largest cities in Myanmar are Yangon, Mandalay, and Naypyidaw. The cons of living in Myanmar include the lack of infrastructure, the lack of reliable internet access, the lack of modern amenities, and the lack of job opportunities. Additionally, the political situation in Myanmar is unstable and the country is prone to natural disasters.
What do I need to know about living in Myanmar?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Myanmar, they said:
"Before retiring in Myanmar, expats should be aware of the country's visa requirements. Expats should also research the cost of living in Myanmar, as well as the availability of healthcare and other services. Additionally, expats should familiarize themselves with the local culture and customs, as well as the language. It is also important to research the safety and security situation in Myanmar, as well as the availability of banking and financial services. Finally, expats should consider the climate and weather in Myanmar, as well as the availability of recreational activities," wrote a member in Myanmar.
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How do I meet people in Myanmar?
When we asked people living in Myanmar about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:
"Expats in Myanmar often join clubs and activities such as language classes, sports teams, and cultural events. Expats can also meet people by attending networking events, joining online forums, or attending social gatherings hosted by local organizations. Additionally, many expats find it helpful to join local volunteer groups or participate in community service projects, as this is a great way to meet people and learn more about the culture," remarked one expat who made the move to Myanmar.
What is life like in Myanmar?
When we asked people living in Myanmar what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:
"Life for expats and digital nomads in Myanmar can be both exciting and challenging. The country is full of culture and history, and the people are friendly and welcoming. Expats and digital nomads can find a variety of activities to do, from exploring the ancient temples and pagodas to visiting the bustling markets and sampling the delicious local cuisine. The cost of living is relatively low, making it an attractive destination for those looking to stretch their budget. However, the infrastructure is still developing, and the internet can be unreliable at times. Additionally, the language barrier can be a challenge for those who don't speak Burmese. Despite these challenges, expats and digital nomads can find a vibrant and welcoming community in Myanmar," remarked one expat who made the move to Myanmar.
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Is there a lot of crime in Myanmar?
We asked people if there is a lot of crime. They answered:
"Yes, there is a significant amount of crime in Myanmar. Reports of violent crime, such as murder, rape, and robbery, are common. Drug trafficking and smuggling are also prevalent. Human trafficking is a major problem in the country, with many people being trafficked for labor and sexual exploitation. Corruption is also widespread, with bribery and extortion being common practices," explained one expat living in Myanmar.
Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Myanmar accepting of differences?
"Yes, there is a lot of diversity in Myanmar. The country is home to a variety of ethnic and religious groups, including the Bamar, Shan, Karen, Rakhine, Mon, Kachin, Chin, and Rohingya. People in Myanmar are generally accepting of differences, and the country has a long history of peaceful coexistence between its various ethnic and religious groups," remarked one expat who made the move to Myanmar.
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What are the schools in Myanmar like?
"Don't do it. They make false promises and are heavily into profit making by cramming in as many kids as possible. International School of Myanmar or International School of Yangon are much better. There are 3-4 big name new schools opening with proper management and great facilities," said one expat in Yangon with children at Yangon Academy.
"The International School Yangon (ISY) is one of the best international schools in Myanmar. Located in Yangon, ISY offers a comprehensive international curriculum for students from Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 12. The school is accredited by the Council of International Schools and the New England Association of Schools and Colleges. ISY also offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and art. The International School of Myanmar (ISM) is another excellent international school in Myanmar. Located in Yangon, ISM offers a comprehensive international curriculum for students from Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 12. The school is accredited by the Council of International Schools and the New England Association of Schools and Colleges. ISM also offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and art. The International School Mandalay (ISM) is a bilingual school in Myanmar. Located in Mandalay, ISM offers a comprehensive international curriculum for students from Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 12. The school is accredited by the Council of International Schools and the New England Association of Schools and Colleges. ISM also offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and art," remarked one parent with kids at in .
Is the cost of living in Myanmar high?
We asked people how much they someone comfortably live on in Myanmar, they wrote:
"The cost of living in Myanmar varies depending on the city and lifestyle. Generally, basic necessities such as food, transportation, and housing are relatively inexpensive. Eating out at restaurants is also affordable, with a meal for two people costing around $10. Utilities such as electricity and water are also relatively inexpensive. However, imported goods and luxury items can be more expensive," said one expat who made the move to Myanmar.
"The cost of living in Myanmar is generally quite low compared to other countries. However, the cost of living in the larger cities such as Yangon and Mandalay is higher than in the rest of the country. The rental price for a nice 1 bedroom apartment in Myanmar is around $400 USD per month, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment is around $600 USD per month. Eating dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in Myanmar will cost around $10 USD per person," commented one expat who moved to Myanmar.
What type of recreational facilities are in Myanmar?
When we asked people living in Myanmar about recreational activities, they mentioned:
"In Myanmar, residents enjoy a variety of recreational facilities, such as parks, beaches, and sports complexes. Parks are a popular destination for locals, offering a variety of activities such as walking, jogging, and picnicking. Beaches are also a popular destination, with many offering swimming, snorkeling, and other water activities. Sports complexes are also available, offering a variety of activities such as basketball, tennis, and badminton. Additionally, there are a number of golf courses, as well as a variety of other outdoor activities, such as hiking, camping, and bird watching," said one expat.
What is the weather like in Myanmar?
"The weather in Myanmar is generally hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from the mid-20s to the mid-30s Celsius throughout the year. The monsoon season runs from May to October, bringing heavy rains and strong winds. The dry season is from November to April, when temperatures are cooler and the skies are generally clear," said one expat.
Are there good restaurants in Myanmar?
"Myanmar is home to a variety of delicious restaurants. One of the most popular is The Strand, located in Yangon. This restaurant serves traditional Burmese cuisine, as well as international dishes. The Strand is known for its excellent service and its beautiful setting, with views of the Shwedagon Pagoda. Another popular restaurant is The Tea House, located in Mandalay. This restaurant specializes in traditional Burmese tea, as well as a variety of other dishes. The Tea House is known for its cozy atmosphere and its friendly staff. Finally, The Golden Duck is a popular restaurant in Yangon. This restaurant serves a variety of Chinese dishes, as well as traditional Burmese dishes. The Golden Duck is known for its delicious food and its friendly atmosphere," wrote one expat living in Myanmar.
Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Myanmar?
"People living in Myanmar typically buy groceries and do other shopping at local markets, roadside stalls, and small shops. Supermarkets and department stores are also becoming increasingly popular in larger cities. Shopping malls are also becoming more common in urban areas, offering a wide variety of goods and services. Additionally, online shopping is becoming increasingly popular in Myanmar, with many online stores offering a wide range of products," mentioned an expat living in Myanmar.
What are the visa & residency requirements in Myanmar?
"In order to visit Myanmar, travelers must obtain a visa prior to arrival. The process of applying for a visa involves submitting an application form, a valid passport, and a passport-sized photograph to the Myanmar Embassy or Consulate in the traveler's home country. The visa application fee must also be paid. In order to obtain residency in Myanmar, applicants must submit an application form, a valid passport, a passport-sized photograph, and a copy of their current visa to the Immigration and Population Department. The application must also include a letter of recommendation from the applicant's employer, a copy of their employment contract, and proof of financial stability. The applicant must also pay a fee for the residency application. Once the application is approved, the applicant will be issued a residency permit," said an expat in Myanmar.
Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Myanmar?
"Healthcare and health insurance in Myanmar can be expensive, especially for those who are not covered by the government's health insurance scheme. Private health insurance is available, but it can be costly and may not cover all medical expenses. Additionally, the quality of healthcare in Myanmar is not always up to international standards, and medical facilities may be limited in some areas. As a result, many people in Myanmar are unable to access the healthcare they need," commented one expat living in Myanmar.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
Other Questions:
- How do I meet people in Myanmar?
- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- Is there a lot of crime in Myanmar?
- What do I need to know before retiring in Myanmar?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Myanmar accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Myanmar like?
- Is the cost of living in Myanmar high?
- What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Myanmar?
- What are healthcare services like in Myanmar?
- Is the cost of living in Myanmar high?
- What type of recreational facilities are in Myanmar?
- What is the weather like in Myanmar?
- Are there good restaurants in Myanmar?
- Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Myanmar?
- What are the visa & residency requirements in Myanmar?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Myanmar?
- What do I need to know when buying property in Myanmar?
- Are foreigners allowed to own property in Myanmar?
- What appliances are typically included in a rental?