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Living in Macau: Cost of Living, Healthcare and What to Know About Living in Macau | Expat Exchange
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Living in Macau

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Jan 09, 2024

Summary: The approximate population of Macau is 667,400 people. The largest cities in Macau are Taipa, Coloane, and Macau. Expats love living in Macau for its vibrant culture, diverse cuisine, and convenient transportation. People describe life in Macau as exciting, fast-paced, and diverse. Popular foods in Macau include Portuguese-style egg tarts, pork chop buns, and African chicken. The cons of living in Macau include the high cost of living, the lack of green space, and the limited job opportunities. The average cost of living for an expat is around $2,500 to $3,500 per month in US dollars. This includes rent, utilities, food, and other expenses.

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What do I need to know about living in Macau?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Macau, they said:

"Before retiring in Macau, expats should be aware of the cost of living, which is higher than in many other countries. It is important to research the local healthcare system and ensure that adequate medical insurance is in place. Expats should also familiarize themselves with the local laws and regulations, as well as the visa requirements for long-term stays. Additionally, it is important to understand the local culture and customs, as well as the language, in order to make the most of the experience," said one expat who made the move to Macau.

How do I meet people in Macau?

When we asked people living in Macau about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:

"Expats in Macau often join clubs and activities such as sports teams, language classes, and cultural events. Expats can also meet people by attending networking events, joining online forums, or attending meetups. Additionally, many expats find it helpful to join local churches, volunteer organizations, or other social groups. Finally, many expats find it helpful to join expat-specific groups, such as the Macau Expat Network, which provides a platform for expats to connect and share experiences," said one expat who made the move to Macau.

What is life like in Macau?

When we asked people living in Macau what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:

"Living in Macau as an expat or digital nomad can be an exciting and rewarding experience. The city is a vibrant mix of East and West, with a unique blend of Portuguese and Chinese culture. Expats and digital nomads can enjoy a wide range of activities, from exploring the city's many attractions to taking part in the vibrant nightlife. The cost of living is relatively low, making it an attractive destination for those looking to live and work abroad. The city is also well-connected, with excellent public transport links and easy access to the rest of Asia. With its stunning scenery, delicious cuisine, and friendly locals, Macau is an ideal destination for expats and digital nomads," explained one expat living in Macau.

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Is there a lot of crime in Macau?

We asked people if there is a lot of crime. They answered:

"Macau is generally considered to be a safe place to visit, with low levels of crime. However, there have been reports of pickpocketing and other petty crimes in some areas, particularly in crowded tourist spots. Visitors should take the usual precautions to protect their belongings and be aware of their surroundings," commented one expat who made the move to Macau.

Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Macau accepting of differences?

"Macau is a culturally diverse city, with a population made up of people from all over the world. The city is known for its acceptance of different cultures, religions, and lifestyles, and is home to a variety of ethnicities, languages, and religions. Macau is a place where people of all backgrounds can feel welcome and accepted, and where differences are celebrated," said one expat in Macau.

What are the schools in Macau like?

"Macau has a number of excellent international and bilingual schools. The International School of Macau (TIS) is one of the best international schools in Macau. It is an IB World School offering the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme and the Primary Years Programme (PYP). The school has a strong focus on academic excellence and provides a well-rounded education with a wide range of extracurricular activities. The Macau Anglican College (MAC) is another excellent international school in Macau. It is an IB World School offering the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme and the Primary Years Programme (PYP). The school has a strong emphasis on developing students’ critical thinking and problem-solving skills, as well as providing a well-rounded education with a wide range of extracurricular activities. The Macau Portuguese School (MPS) is a bilingual school offering a curriculum based on the Portuguese and Chinese education systems. The school has a strong focus on language development and provides a well-rounded education with a wide range of extracurricular activities. The Macau International School (MIS) is another excellent bilingual school in Macau. It is an IB World School offering the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme and the Primary Years Programme (PYP). The school has a strong emphasis on developing students’ critical thinking and problem-solving skills, as well as providing a well-rounded education with a wide range of extracurricular activities," said one parent with children at in .

Is the cost of living in Macau high?

We asked people how much they someone comfortably live on in Macau, they wrote:

"The cost of living in Macau is generally considered to be quite high. Prices for basic necessities such as food, housing, and transportation are all relatively expensive. Eating out can be especially costly, as Macau is known for its high-end restaurants and luxury hotels. Additionally, the cost of entertainment and leisure activities can be quite high, as Macau is a popular tourist destination," wrote one member in Macau.

"The cost of living in Macau is generally higher than in other parts of the country. Areas such as Taipa and Coloane tend to be more expensive than other parts of the city. The rental price for a nice 1 bedroom apartment in Macau is around $1,500 USD per month, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment can cost up to $2,500 USD per month. Eating dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in Macau can cost around $20 USD per person," said one expat living in Macau.

What type of recreational facilities are in Macau?

When we asked people living in Macau about recreational activities, they mentioned:

"Residents of Macau enjoy a variety of recreational facilities, including public parks, beaches, and sports facilities. There are also a number of cultural attractions, such as museums, galleries, and theatres. For those looking for a more active experience, there are plenty of outdoor activities to choose from, such as hiking, biking, and water sports. Shopping and dining are also popular pastimes, with a wide variety of restaurants, cafes, and markets to explore. Finally, Macau is home to a number of casinos and other gaming venues, offering a unique form of entertainment," said an expat in Macau.

What is the weather like in Macau?

"The weather in Macau is typically warm and humid, with temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to the mid-80s Fahrenheit throughout the year. The city experiences a subtropical climate, with hot and humid summers and mild winters. Rainfall is abundant throughout the year, with the wettest months being June and July," said one expat living in Macau.

Are there good restaurants in Macau?

"One of Macau's most popular restaurants is the Michelin-starred Robuchon au Dome, located in the Grand Lisboa Hotel. The restaurant offers a luxurious dining experience with a menu featuring French-inspired dishes such as foie gras, lobster, and caviar. The restaurant also offers an extensive wine list and a stunning view of the city. Another popular restaurant in Macau is the 8½ Otto e Mezzo Bombana. This Italian restaurant is run by Umberto Bombana, the only Italian chef to receive three Michelin stars outside of Italy. The restaurant offers a variety of Italian dishes, including homemade pastas, risottos, and seafood. The Golden Peacock is a popular Indian restaurant in Macau. The restaurant offers a variety of traditional Indian dishes, such as tandoori chicken, curries, and naan bread. The restaurant also offers a selection of vegetarian dishes. The Lord Stow's Bakery is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. The bakery is famous for its Portuguese egg tarts, which are made with a flaky pastry crust and a creamy custard filling. The bakery also offers a variety of other pastries, such as almond cookies and pineapple buns," commented one expat who moved to Macau.

Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Macau?

"People living in Macau typically buy groceries and do other shopping at supermarkets, convenience stores, wet markets, and specialty stores. Many people also shop online for groceries and other items. Additionally, there are a variety of shopping malls and department stores in Macau where people can find a wide selection of items," remarked one expat in Macau.

What are the visa & residency requirements in Macau?

"To apply for a visa to Macau, applicants must submit a valid passport, a completed visa application form, a recent passport-sized photograph, and proof of sufficient funds to cover the duration of the stay. Depending on the purpose of the visit, additional documents may be required. To apply for residency in Macau, applicants must submit a valid passport, a completed application form, a recent passport-sized photograph, proof of sufficient funds to cover the duration of the stay, and proof of employment or other legal source of income. Depending on the purpose of the residency, additional documents may be required," remarked one expat in Macau.

Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Macau?

"Healthcare and health insurance in Macau can be expensive, depending on the type of coverage and services required. Most employers in Macau provide health insurance for their employees, but the coverage and cost can vary greatly. Private health insurance is also available, but it can be costly. In general, healthcare services in Macau are of a high quality, but the cost of treatment can be expensive," wrote one expat living in Macau.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame 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.

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