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Cost of Living in Kuala Lumpur

Sep 9, 2025

Overview

This video details a monthly cost-of-living budget for two people staying long-term in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The host breaks down expenses into five key categories: accommodations, food, phone, insurance, and transportation, providing actual prices and tips for budget-conscious travelers.

Accommodations

  • Monthly rent is 2,000 ringgit (~$648 CAD), considered short-term for a six-month stay.
  • Utilities per month: Internet $33.75 CAD, electricity $64 CAD, water $5 CAD.
  • Finding affordable short-term rentals in Kuala Lumpur proved challenging, with prices higher than expected.

Grocery Shopping and Food Costs

  • Local grocery store (TMG Market) offers a variety of fresh and packaged goods; some western comfort foods are available.
  • Sample item prices: yellow peppers 13.99 ringgit/kg, apples 10.99 ringgit for five, can of Campbell soup 6.20 ringgit, 3-in-1 coffee 19.50 ringgit.
  • Total spent at TMG Market for a typical trip: 74.75 ringgit (~$24 CAD).
  • Bread (4.30 ringgit/loaf), eggs (8.20-13.50 ringgit/flat), snacks (Ruffles 13.60 ringgit, Dairy Milk bars 8.60 ringgit).
  • Food budget in Kuala Lumpur is about $680 CAD/month, significantly less than previous experiences in Vietnam ($1,200 CAD/month).
  • Local and western food comparison: Subway 6-inch sub 14 ringgit (~$4.50 CAD); local chicken and rice meal 11.50 ringgit (~$3 CAD).

Phone and Connectivity

  • One local SIM with 100GB data costs $15 CAD/month; a second line cost slightly more.
  • Host recommends having a personal SIM for convenience and safety during longer stays.

Insurance

  • Both travelers use Safety Wing insurance, paying $331 CAD/month for two on the Essential plan.
  • The complete plan covers additional medical needs but costs more.

Transportation

  • Purchased a Honda ADV 160 scooter; monthly cost including breakdown is $631 CAD plus $12.30 CAD for gas.
  • Plan to sell the scooter at the end of their stay; resale value undetermined.
  • Public transit (MRT, Grab) is convenient and affordable; scooter ownership is optional.

Facilities and Apartment Complex

  • Staying in a large high-rise complex with over 5,000 units, pools, gym, shops, and amenities.
  • Apartment is on the 27th floor with an interior pool view; gym and other facilities are well-equipped.

Total Monthly Budget Summary

  • Accommodations (with utilities): ~$750 CAD
  • Food: ~$680 CAD
  • Phone: ~$15 CAD
  • Insurance: ~$331 CAD
  • Transportation: ~$631 CAD (+$12.30 gas)
  • Total: Approx. $2,500 CAD/month for two people

Recommendations / Advice

  • Travelers can reduce transportation costs by using public transit or ride-hailing apps instead of purchasing a vehicle.
  • Always obtain travel insurance for international stays.
  • Local grocery options and food courts offer substantial savings compared to dining exclusively at western chains.

Full transcript