Cost of Living in Johor Bahru

Cost Guide for Johor Bahru, Malaysia

Johor Bahru is a vibrant city located in the southern part of Malaysia, known for its rich culture, delicious street food, and proximity to Singapore. If you are considering moving to Johor Bahru, it is essential to understand the cost of living in this bustling city. This comprehensive guide will provide you with a breakdown of various expenses, such as rent, coworking costs, SIM/data plans, food, transport, gym memberships, internet speeds, safety information, neighbourhood comparisons, and a monthly budget breakdown.

Rent Ranges by Neighbourhood: Rent prices in Johor Bahru can vary significantly depending on the neighbourhood. Here is an approximate range of rental costs for a one-bedroom apartment in popular neighbourhoods:

1. City Centre: RM 1,500 - 2,500 per month 2. Danga Bay: RM 1,200 - 2,000 per month 3. Taman Molek: RM 1,000 - 1,800 per month 4. Setia Tropika: RM 900 - 1,500 per month 5. Skudai: RM 800 - 1,300 per month

Coworking Costs: For digital nomads or remote workers looking for a coworking space in Johor Bahru, you can expect to pay around RM 300 to RM 600 per month for a hot desk at a reputable coworking space. Some popular coworking spaces in the city include Common Ground, WORQ, and Regus.

SIM/Data Plans: For mobile phone plans in Johor Bahru, you can get a prepaid SIM card with data for as low as RM 30 per month. If you require more data, you can opt for postpaid plans starting from RM 50 per month with various providers such as Maxis, Celcom, and Digi.

Food Costs: Johor Bahru is a food haven, with a wide range of dining options to suit every budget. On average, a meal at a local eatery can cost between RM 5 to RM 15. A meal at a mid-range restaurant may range from RM 20 to RM 50 per person. If you enjoy street food, you can find delicious local dishes for as low as RM 5 per meal.

Transport Passes: Public transportation in Johor Bahru is affordable and convenient. A single trip on the local bus or train can cost around RM 2 to RM 5. For regular commuters, you can opt for a monthly unlimited pass for approximately RM 100 to RM 150, depending on the distance of your daily commute.

Gym Memberships: For those looking to stay fit in Johor Bahru, gym memberships typically range from RM 100 to RM 200 per month for a basic gym. Premium gym facilities with additional amenities can cost upwards of RM 300 per month.

Internet Speeds: Johor Bahru offers reliable internet connectivity with speeds averaging around 30 to 100 Mbps. Internet service providers such as UniFi, Maxis, and TIME offer various packages starting from RM 100 per month for high-speed broadband.

Safety Notes: Johor Bahru is generally considered safe for residents and visitors. However, like any other city, it is advisable to remain vigilant, especially in crowded areas and at night. Petty crimes such as pickpocketing can occur in tourist areas, so it is essential to keep your belongings secure.

Neighbourhood Comparison: Each neighbourhood in Johor Bahru offers a unique vibe and amenities. The City Centre is bustling with shopping malls and entertainment options, while Danga Bay provides a waterfront living experience. Taman Molek is known for its family-friendly environment, and Skudai offers a more laid-back lifestyle close to universities and educational institutions.

Monthly Budget Breakdown: To give you an idea of the monthly expenses in Johor Bahru, here is a sample budget breakdown for a single person:

- Rent (1-bedroom apartment): RM 1,500 - Food: RM 800 - Transport: RM 150 - SIM/Data: RM 50 - Gym Membership: RM 150 - Internet: RM 100 - Miscellaneous: RM 200

Total Monthly Budget: RM 2,950

In conclusion, living in Johor Bahru offers a unique blend of affordability, cultural experiences, and modern amenities. By understanding the cost of living in different aspects of the city, you can better plan your budget and enjoy all that this vibrant city has to offer.