Cost of living in Malacca (Melaka)
Malacca, also known as Melaka, is a historic city in Malaysia known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant local life. Understanding the cost of living in Malacca is crucial for anyone considering moving to or visiting this charming city.
This guide provides a detailed breakdown of the expenses you can expect, from dining and groceries to housing and transportation, helping you plan your budget effectively.
Cost of Living Summary
Dining and Restaurants
- Inexpensive Restaurant Meal - A meal at a casual restaurant will typically cost $3.24 on average, with a range between $2.01 and $5.59.
- Mid-Range Restaurant (Three-Course Meal for Two) - For a more upscale dining experience, expect to pay around $17.9, with prices ranging from $13.43 to $44.76.
- Fast Food (e.g., McDonald's) - A McMeal or equivalent combo meal averages $4.48, with a range between $3.47 and $5.59.
- Beverages (e.g., Domestic Beer, Imported Beer, Cappuccino, Coke/Pepsi) - Domestic beer ranges from $1.79 to $5.82, imported beer $2.69 to $6.71, cappuccino $1.12 to $4.03, and Coke/Pepsi $0.56 to $1.12.
Grocery Prices
- Milk - Milk is priced between $1.39 and $1.97 per liter, averaging $1.39.
- Bread (Loaf of Fresh White Bread) - A loaf of fresh white bread costs between $0.67 and $1.86, with an average price of $0.91.
- Eggs (Dozen) - A dozen eggs range from $1.42 to $2.69, averaging $2.01.
- Fruits (e.g., Apples, Oranges) - Apples cost $1.41 to $4.03 per kg, while oranges range from $3.36 to $4.93 per kg.
- Vegetables (e.g., Potatoes, Lettuce) - Potatoes are priced between $0.56 and $2.24 per kg, and lettuce costs $0.9 to $1.79 per head.
Transportation
- Fuel (Gasoline) - Gasoline is priced between $0.46 and $0.56 per liter.
- Taxi Fares - Taxi fares start at $0.67, with a cost of $0.67 to $1.34 per km and $4.03 per hour of waiting.
Housing Costs
- 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent (City Centre) - Rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in the city centre averages $313.3.
- 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent (Outside Centre) - Outside the centre, rent averages $179.03.
- 3-Bedroom Apartment Rent (City Centre) - Rent for a 3-bedroom apartment in the city centre averages $671.37.
- 3-Bedroom Apartment Rent (Outside Centre) - Outside the centre, rent averages $268.55.
Utilities
- Basic Utilities (Electricity, Heating, Water, etc.) - Basic utilities for an 85m2 apartment cost between $24.21 and $67.14, averaging $39.62.
- Internet - Internet services range from $22.38 to $40.28, with an average cost of $29.65.
Cost of Living Rankings
The cost of living indices for Malaysia are compared to New York City (NYC), which serves as the baseline with an index of 100. These provide insights into the relative cost of living in different cities in Malaysia, covering factors like consumer goods, rent, and purchasing power.
Cost of Living Data
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"Key Takeaways"
Malacca offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared to many Western cities, with low prices for dining and groceries.
Housing is particularly affordable, especially outside the city centre, making it an attractive option for long-term stays.
Transportation costs are minimal, with inexpensive fuel and taxi fares, although public transport options are limited.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Malacca presents a cost-effective living environment with affordable housing, dining, and transportation options.
This makes it an appealing destination for expatriates, retirees, and digital nomads looking for a budget-friendly lifestyle in a culturally rich setting.