Complete Details of Living Expenses in Malaysia for Students

Malaysia, with its harmonious mix of modern infrastructure and natural beauty, presents a unique experience for those seeking quality education in a multicultural setting. Several factors have contributed to its growing popularity as a study destination. One of the key reasons is the affordable cost of living in Malaysia, especially when compared to other countries in the region like Singapore or Japan. The monthly expenses in Malaysia are relatively low, and the country offers affordable education without compromising on quality. Tuition fees and living costs are significantly lower than in many Western countries, making Malaysia an appealing choice for students looking to pursue quality education without the burden of high costs.

Top Cities in Malaysia for International Students

Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur, the capital of Malaysia, serves as the central hub for many of the country's universities. According to QS TopUniversities, the top three universities in Kuala Lumpur are Universiti Malaya, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, and UCSI University. 

Penang

Penang, situated on Malaysia's northwest coast, is often referred to as the country's Silicon Valley. As Malaysia's economic hub and its most renowned tech city, Penang hosts several prominent universities, including Universiti Sains Malaysia, one of the nation's oldest and most esteemed academic institutions with international recognition.

Johor Bahru

Johor Bahru is located north of Singapore. It has become an important center for attracting students, with massive investments in establishing the best educational institutions. The city is also considered one of the cities with a low cost of living in Malaysia. The city is expected to be among the major educational capitals globally in the coming years. Some of the most famous universities in the city are Raffles University and Universiti Teknologi Malaysia.

Details of Living Expenses in Malaysia

When deciding to study abroad, living costs are a critical factor that can influence your decision. Several elements contribute to these living costs, with housing expenses being one of the most significant. Housing costs vary based on the type of accommodation whether it’s an apartment, house, loft, and the country where you study. Another key factor is food expenses, which depend on the type, quality, and quantity of food you consume. Transportation costs also play a role, determined by the mode of transport, distance, and frequency of travel. Additionally, you should consider utility bills, healthcare, and other miscellaneous expenses. However, these additional expenses heavily depend on individual preferences. 

Accommodation

Accommodation is one of the major expenses for international students in Malaysia. The cost of accommodation depends on the type, location, quality of the housing, and the preferences of the individual. There are two types of accommodation available for students. On-campus accommodation and off-campus accommodation. Off-campus accommodation is a more expansive one. 

Off-Campus 1 Bedroom Apartment (Avg. Rent Per Month)

• Kuala Lumpur - RM1,500 - RM4,000 
• Penang - RM1,200 - RM3,500 
• Johor Bahru - RM1,000 - RM2,500 

Source: ricebowl.my

On Campus Room (Avg. Rent Per Month)

• Public Universities - RM 300-800
• Private Universities - RM 500-1,200

Source: studymalaysia.com

Food

Food is another essential expense for international students in Malaysia. The cost of food depends on the type, quality, and quantity of the food. According to studymalaysia.com, the average food expense for a student in Malaysia is around RM450-600. 

Transport Cost

 The cost of transportation varies based on the mode of travel, distance, and frequency. For students with on-campus accommodation, transportation expenses are minimal since most necessities are available on campus. However, for those living off-campus, the average one-way fare for local transport is about RM 3, while a monthly pass typically ranges from RM 60 to RM 80. For taxi services, the starting fare is approximately RM 5, with an additional charge of around RM 3 per kilometer.  (Source: Hotcoursesabroad).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the average rent in Malaysia?
The average rental price in Malaysia over the past two years is RM1,895, slightly lower than the first-quarter average price of RM1,920

What is the cheapest place to live in Malaysia?

• Alor Setar, Kedah.
• Ipoh, Perak.
• Melaka City, Malacca.

Which part of Malaysia is best to live in?

• Kuala Lumpur. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, has one of the largest expat communities in Southeast Asia. 
• Penang. Penang is great for many expats looking to live in Malaysia outside of Kuala Lumpur. 
• Langkawi. 
• Malacca.

Malaysia is an increasingly popular study destination due to its affordable cost of living, quality education, and multicultural environment. Cities like Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Johor Bahru are top choices for international students, offering a range of reputable universities. Living expenses, including accommodation, food, and transportation, are relatively low compared to other countries in the region, making Malaysia an attractive option for students seeking a high-quality education without the burden of high costs.