Table of Contents
- Cost of Living in Kuala Lumpur vs. Bali for a Working Adult
- Cost of Living in Kuala Lumpur vs. Bali for a Family of Three
- Cost of Living in Kuala Lumpur vs. Bali for a Retiree
- Cost of Accommodation
- Cost of Food
- Cost of Transportation
- Cost of Utilities
- Cost of Healthcare
- Conclusion
- Stay Connected Effortlessly in Kuala Lumpur and Bali with eSim!
Kuala Lumpur and Bali are two of the most popular travel destinations in Southeast Asia, attracting millions of visitors every year. While both destinations offer stunning natural beauty, rich culture, and mouth-watering cuisine, they differ significantly in terms of living expenses. In this blog post, we’ll compare the cost of living in Kuala Lumpur and Bali, and help you decide which destination is better for your budget.
Cost of Living in Kuala Lumpur vs. Bali for a Working Adult
| Category | Kuala Lumpur | Bali |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | $338 – $565 for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center; $225 – $338 for a one-bedroom apartment outside the city center | $198 – $529 for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center; $165 – $365 for a one-bedroom apartment outside the city center |
| Food and Groceries | $136 – $226 per month | $99 – $165 per month |
| Transportation | $23 – $68 per month | $40 – $66 per month |
| Utilities | $45 – $68 per month | $46 – $66 per month |
| Healthcare | Consultation fee: $18 – $23 per visit; | Consultation fee: $13 – $26 per visit; |
| Cost of medication varies | Cost of medication varies |
Note: The above figures are estimates and may vary depending on your lifestyle and location within each city. The conversion rate used are 1 USD = 4.43 MYR and 1 USD = 15155.75 IDR
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Cost of Living in Kuala Lumpur vs. Bali for a Family of Three
| Category | Kuala Lumpur | Bali |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | $563 – $940 for a three-bedroom apartment in the city center; $375 – $563 for a three-bedroom apartment outside the city center | $396 – $1,058 for a three-bedroom apartment in the city center; $330 – $730 for a three-bedroom apartment outside the city center |
| Food and Groceries | $453 – $755 per month | $330 – $550 per month |
| Transportation | $68 – $136 per month | $120 – $198 per month |
| Utilities | $113 – $226 per month | $116 – $165 per month |
| Healthcare | Consultation fee: $18 – $23 per visit per person; | Consultation fee: $13 – $26 per visit per person; |
| Cost of medication varies | Cost of medication varies | |
| Education | $177 – $442 per month for primary school; $265 – $708 per month for high school | $88 – $265 per month for primary school; $177 – $530 per month for high school |
| Childcare | $265 – $442 per month for full-time daycare | $88 – $265 per month for full-time daycare |
Note: The above figures are estimates and may vary depending on your lifestyle and location within each city. Also, the cost of education and childcare may vary depending on the quality and reputation of the institution. The conversion rate used are 1 USD = 4.43 MYR and 1 USD = 15155.75 IDR
Cost of Living in Kuala Lumpur vs. Bali for a Retiree
| Category | Kuala Lumpur | Bali |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | $338 – $565 for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center; $225 – $338 for a one-bedroom apartment outside the city center | $198 – $529 for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center; $165 – $365 for a one-bedroom apartment outside the city center |
| Food and Groceries | $113 – $226 per month | $99 – $165 per month |
| Transportation | $23 – $68 per month | $40 – $66 per month |
| Utilities | $45 – $68 per month | $46 – $66 per month |
| Healthcare | Consultation fee: $18 – $23 per visit; | Consultation fee: $13 – $26 per visit; |
| Cost of medication varies | Cost of medication varies |
Note: The above figures are estimates and may vary depending on your lifestyle and location within each city. The conversion rate used are 1 USD = 4.43 MYR and 1 USD = 15155.75 IDR
Cost of Accommodation
Accommodation is likely to be your biggest expense when living in any destination. In Kuala Lumpur, you can find a one-bedroom apartment in the city center for about RM 2,500 – RM 3,500 per month (equivalent to around $565 – $790 USD). If you’re on a tight budget, you can find more affordable options outside of the city center for around RM 1,500 – RM 2,500 per month (equivalent to $340 – $565 USD). On the other hand, in Bali, the cost of accommodation varies depending on the location. In the popular tourist areas such as Kuta, Seminyak, and Ubud, you can find a one-bedroom apartment for around IDR 6,000,000 – IDR 10,000,000 per month (equivalent to around $396 – $661 USD). However, if you’re willing to live a bit further from the tourist areas, you can find more affordable options for around IDR 3,000,000 – IDR 5,000,000 per month (equivalent to around $198 – $330 USD).
Overall, the cost of accommodation is generally cheaper in Bali than in Kuala Lumpur, but the location and quality of the property can affect the price significantly.
Cost of Food
When it comes to food, both Kuala Lumpur and Bali offer a wide range of options to suit different budgets. In Kuala Lumpur, you can find delicious street food for as low as RM 5 – RM 10 per meal (equivalent to around $1.13 – $2.26 USD). However, if you prefer to dine in a restaurant, the cost can go up to RM 20 – RM 50 per meal (equivalent to around $4.52 – $11.29 USD). In Bali, you can also find affordable street food for around IDR 10,000 – IDR 20,000 per meal (equivalent to around $0.66 – $1.32 USD), and restaurant meals for around IDR 50,000 – IDR 100,000 per meal (equivalent to around $3.30 – $6.60 USD).
Overall, the cost of food is similar in both destinations, with Kuala Lumpur being slightly more expensive than Bali for dining out.
Cost of Transportation
In terms of transportation, Kuala Lumpur has a well-developed public transport system, including buses, trains, and taxis. The cost of a one-way ticket for public transportation is around RM 2 – RM 4 (equivalent to around $0.45 – $0.90 USD). Taxis are also widely available and relatively affordable, with an average cost of RM 20 – RM 30 for a 10-kilometer ride (equivalent to around $4.52 – $6.78 USD). In Bali, the most common mode of transportation is a scooter or motorbike. The rental cost for a scooter is around IDR 50,000 – IDR 80,000 per day (equivalent to around $3.30 – $5.28 USD). Alternatively, you can hire a driver for around IDR 500,000 – IDR 700,000 per day (equivalent to around $33 – $46 USD).
Overall, the cost of transportation is generally cheaper in Kuala Lumpur than in Bali, as the public transportation system is more extensive and affordable. However, if you prefer to explore Bali on a scooter, you can save money on transportation costs.
Cost of Utilities
Utilities, such as electricity, water, and internet, are essential expenses that you need to consider when living in any destination. In Kuala Lumpur, the average monthly cost of utilities for a one-bedroom apartment is around RM 200 – RM 300 (equivalent to around $45 – $68 USD). In Bali, the average monthly cost of utilities for a one-bedroom apartment is around IDR 700,000 – IDR 1,000,000 (equivalent to around $46 – $66 USD).
Overall, the cost of utilities is cheaper in Kuala Lumpur than in Bali, but the difference is not significant.
Cost of Healthcare
Healthcare is an important aspect to consider when deciding where to live, especially if you’re planning to retire. In Kuala Lumpur, the healthcare system is well-developed, with world-class hospitals and clinics. The cost of healthcare is relatively affordable, with a consultation fee of around RM 80 – RM 100 (equivalent to around $18 – $23 USD) and the cost of medication varying depending on the type and dosage. In Bali, the healthcare system is still developing, and the quality of medical facilities can vary significantly. The cost of healthcare is generally cheaper than in Kuala Lumpur, with a consultation fee of around IDR 200,000 – IDR 400,000 (equivalent to around $13 – $26 USD) and the cost of medication varying depending on the type and dosage.
Overall, Kuala Lumpur offers a more reliable and developed healthcare system, but Bali offers a more affordable option.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both Kuala Lumpur and Bali offer unique advantages and challenges when it comes to the cost of living. Here’s a summary of which destination is better for different types of residents:
- Working adult: Kuala Lumpur is generally better for working adults, as it offers a more affordable public transportation system and a well-developed healthcare system. However, if you prefer to live in a more relaxed and laid-back environment, Bali may be a better option.
- Family of three: Bali is generally better for families, as it offers a more affordable cost of accommodation and a more relaxed environment. However, Kuala Lumpur offers a more reliable public transportation system and a more developed healthcare system.
- Retiree: Bali is generally better for retirees, as it offers a more affordable cost of living and a relaxed environment. However, if you prefer to live in a more developed and reliable city, Kuala Lumpur may be a better option.
Ultimately, the choice between Kuala Lumpur and Bali comes down to your personal preferences and priorities. Both destinations offer unique experiences and challenges, and it’s up to you to decide which one is the best fit for your budget and lifestyle.
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