Cost of living in Tawau (Sabah)
Tawau, located in the Malaysian state of Sabah, offers a unique blend of cultural and natural attractions. Understanding the cost of living in Tawau is crucial for anyone considering moving to or visiting this vibrant city.This guide provides a detailed breakdown of the expenses you can expect, from dining and groceries to transportation and housing, helping you plan your budget effectively.Cost of Living Summary
Dining and Restaurants
- Fast Food (e.g., McDonald's)A McMeal or equivalent combo meal averages $3.58, with a range between $2.69 and $4.48.
- Domestic Beer (0.5 liter draught)Domestic beer is priced at an average of $1.79.
- Imported Beer (0.33 liter bottle)Imported beer costs around $2.24 on average.
- CappuccinoA regular cappuccino costs between $1.12 and $2.69, averaging $1.90.
Grocery Prices
- MilkMilk is priced between $1.19 and $1.79 per liter, averaging $1.49.
- Bread (Loaf of Fresh White Bread)A loaf of fresh white bread costs between $0.76 and $1.79, with an average price of $1.28.
- Rice (1kg)Rice is priced between $0.34 and $2.91 per kg, averaging $1.62.
- Chicken Fillets (1kg)Chicken fillets average $2.91 per kg.
- Beef Round (1kg)Beef round costs around $4.03 per kg on average.
Transportation
- Public Transport (One-Way Ticket)A one-way local transport ticket costs approximately $0.22.
- Fuel (Gasoline)Gasoline is priced at an average of $0.46 per liter.
- Taxi Start (Normal Tariff)Taxi fares start at $0.90.
- New Car (Toyota Corolla Sedan 1.6l 97kW Comfort)A new Toyota Corolla or equivalent costs around $22,383.88.
Utilities
- Water (1.5 liter bottle)A 1.5 liter bottle of water costs around $0.34.
Cost of Living Data
The following pricing data has been gathered from 4 user contributions, as of the most recent update in July, 2023.
Restaurants
Restaurants
Avg
Range
McMeal at McDonalds (or Equivalent Combo Meal)
$3.58
Domestic Beer (0.5 liter draught)
$1.79
Imported Beer (0.33 liter bottle)
$2.24
Cappuccino (regular)
$1.90
Markets
Markets
Avg
Range
Milk (regular), (1 liter)
$1.49
Loaf of Fresh White Bread (500g)
$1.28
Water (1.5 liter bottle)
$0.34
Bottle of Wine (Mid-Range)
$22.38
Chicken Fillets (1kg)
$2.91
Rice (white), (1kg)
$1.62
Beef Round (1kg) (or Equivalent Back Leg Red Meat)
$4.03
Transportation
Transportation
Avg
Range
One-way Ticket (Local Transport)
$0.22
Gasoline (1 liter)
$0.46
Taxi Start (Normal Tariff)
$0.90
Toyota Corolla Sedan 1.6l 97kW Comfort (Or Equivalent New Car)
$22,383.88
Sports And Leisure
Sports And Leisure
Avg
Range
Fitness Club, Monthly Fee for 1 Adult
$22.38
Cinema, International Release, 1 Seat
$2.69
Clothing And Shoes
Clothing And Shoes
Avg
Range
1 Pair of Nike Running Shoes (Mid-Range)
$71.63
Worldwide
Malaysia
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.
Highest to LowestUpdated: Oct, 2025
