Cost of Living in Brunei
Last updated on Mar 10, 2024
Summary: The cost of living in Brunei is generally considered to be quite affordable. A nice 1 bedroom apartment in Brunei can cost anywhere from $500 to $1,000 per month, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment can cost from $800 to $1,500 per month. The cost of dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in Brunei is usually around $20 per person.
Is the cost of living in Brunei high?
We asked people how much they someone comfortably live on in Brunei, they wrote:
"The cost of living in Brunei is generally considered to be quite affordable. Basic necessities such as food, transportation, and housing are relatively inexpensive compared to other countries in the region. Additionally, Brunei has no income tax, which helps to keep the cost of living low. However, imported goods and luxury items can be more expensive due to the country's high import taxes," remarked one in Brunei.
Get Quote
William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote
Will I save money living in Brunei?
"Living in Brunei may be more cost-effective than living in the United States due to the lower cost of living. The cost of basic necessities such as food, housing, and transportation are generally lower in Brunei than in the United States. Additionally, Brunei has no income tax, which can help to reduce overall living expenses," explained one expat.
What is the average cost of housing in Brunei?
If you are thinking about moving to Brunei, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:
"The cost of housing in Brunei is generally quite high, with most properties costing significantly more than the average salary. Renting a property in Brunei can be expensive, with prices ranging from around $1,000 to $3,000 per month for a basic apartment. Buying a property in Brunei is also expensive, with the average cost of a house being around $500,000," said one person in Brunei.
William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
What are typical rental prices for expats in Brunei?
"The rental price for a nice 1 bedroom apartment in Brunei can range from around $500 to $1,000 per month, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment can range from around $800 to $1,500 per month," commented one expat who moved to Brunei.
What appliances are typically included in a rental?
We asked foreigners in Brunei what appliances are typically included in a rental, and, if there is anything else included or not included that a newcomer would not expect. Replies included:
"Rental properties in Brunei typically include a refrigerator, stove, oven, washing machine, and air conditioning unit. Other common appliances may include a microwave, dishwasher, and water heater," wrote an expat living in Brunei.
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 Brunei?
- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- Is there a lot of crime in Brunei?
- What do I need to know before retiring in Brunei?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Brunei accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Brunei like?
- Is the cost of living in Brunei high?
- What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Brunei?
- What are healthcare services like in Brunei?
- Is the cost of living in Brunei high?
- What type of recreational facilities are in Brunei?
- What is the weather like in Brunei?
- Are there good restaurants in Brunei?
- Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Brunei?
- What are the visa & residency requirements in Brunei?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Brunei?
- What do I need to know when buying property in Brunei?
- Are foreigners allowed to own property in Brunei?
- What appliances are typically included in a rental?