Cost of living in Sarawak
Sarawak, a Malaysian state on Borneo, is known for its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. Understanding the cost of living here is crucial for anyone considering a move or extended stay.
This guide provides a detailed breakdown of expenses, including housing, transportation, groceries, and more, to help you plan your budget effectively.
Cost of Living Summary
Dining and Restaurants
- Inexpensive Restaurant Meal - A meal at a casual restaurant will typically cost $4.48 on average.
- Mid-Range Restaurant (Three-Course Meal for Two) - For a more upscale dining experience, expect to pay around $11.19.
- Fast Food (e.g., McDonald's) - A McMeal or equivalent combo meal averages $5.04, with a range between $4.48 and $5.6.
- Beverages (e.g., Domestic Beer, Imported Beer, Cappuccino, Coke/Pepsi) - Domestic beer averages $7.39, imported beer $7.95, cappuccino $2.61, and Coke/Pepsi $1.12.
Grocery Prices
- Milk - Milk is priced at $1.79 per liter.
- Bread (Loaf of Fresh White Bread) - A loaf of fresh white bread costs $0.9.
- Cheese (Local, 1kg) - Local cheese costs $5.6 per kg.
- Water (1.5 liter bottle) - A 1.5 liter bottle of water ranges from $0.45 to $0.78, averaging $0.62.
- Chicken Fillets (1kg) - Chicken fillets are priced between $2.24 and $2.69 per kg, averaging $2.46.
Transportation
- Public Transport (One-Way Ticket) - A one-way local transport ticket costs $1.12.
- Monthly Pass - A monthly pass for public transport is priced at $26.86.
- Fuel (Gasoline) - Gasoline is priced at $0.61 per liter.
- Taxi Fares - Taxi fares start at $0.9, with a cost of $0.45 per km.
Housing Costs
- 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent (City Centre) - Rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in the city centre ranges from $223.84 to $402.91, averaging $313.37.
- 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent (Outside Centre) - Outside the centre, rent ranges from $179.07 to $335.76, averaging $257.41.
- 3-Bedroom Apartment Rent (City Centre) - Rent for a 3-bedroom apartment in the city centre ranges from $335.76 to $626.75, averaging $481.25.
- 3-Bedroom Apartment Rent (Outside Centre) - Outside the centre, rent ranges from $223.84 to $447.68, averaging $335.76.
- Buying Price per Square Meter (City Centre) - The price per square meter to buy an apartment in the city centre is $1091.45.
- Buying Price per Square Meter (Outside Centre) - Outside the centre, the price per square meter is $867.38.
Utilities
- Basic Utilities (Electricity, Heating, Water, etc.) - Basic utilities for an 85m2 apartment cost $22.38.
- Internet - Internet services average $89.54.
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"
Sarawak offers a relatively low cost of living compared to many other regions, with affordable housing and dining options.
Transportation costs are minimal, making it easy to get around without breaking the bank.
Utilities and internet services are reasonably priced, contributing to the overall affordability of living in Sarawak.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Sarawak presents an attractive option for those seeking a cost-effective lifestyle in Malaysia.
With its affordable housing, dining, and transportation, it is an ideal location for both locals and expatriates looking to enjoy a comfortable life without high expenses.