Cost of Living in Medan

Cost Guide for Living in Medan, Indonesia

Medan, the capital of North Sumatra province, is a vibrant city known for its diverse culture, culinary delights, and historical landmarks. For those considering living in Medan, understanding the cost of living is crucial for budget planning. This comprehensive cost guide will provide insights into various aspects of living in Medan, including rent, coworking spaces, SIM/data plans, food costs, transport passes, gym memberships, internet speeds, safety notes, neighbourhood comparison, and a monthly budget breakdown.

Rent Ranges by Neighbourhood

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City Centre

The city centre of Medan is bustling with activity and offers a mix of residential and commercial properties. Rental prices for a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre range from £150 to £300 per month.

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Polonia

Located near the airport, Polonia is a popular residential area with easy access to amenities. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Polonia ranges from £120 to £250 per month.

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Medan Perjuangan

This neighbourhood is known for its proximity to shopping malls and entertainment options. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Medan Perjuangan varies from £100 to £200 per month.

Coworking Costs

For digital nomads or those looking for shared office spaces, coworking spaces in Medan offer affordable options. The monthly cost for a hot desk in a coworking space ranges from £50 to £100, depending on the facilities and location.

SIM/Data Plans

Mobile phone services in Indonesia are widely available, and several providers offer prepaid SIM cards with data plans. On average, a prepaid SIM card with data in Medan costs around £5 to £10 per month, depending on the data allocation and validity period.

Food Costs

Medan is a paradise for food lovers, with its diverse culinary scene and affordable street food options. A meal at a local restaurant can cost around £2 to £5, while street food dishes may range from £1 to £3. Grocery shopping for a week's worth of essentials can cost approximately £15 to £30, depending on dietary preferences.

Transport Passes

Public transportation in Medan mainly consists of buses, minibuses (angkot), and motorcycle taxis (ojek). A monthly bus pass costs around £10 to £15, while a single ride on an angkot or ojek is priced at approximately £0.50 to £1.

Gym Memberships

For fitness enthusiasts, gyms in Medan offer a range of membership options. The monthly cost for a gym membership in a well-equipped facility is around £20 to £40, depending on the amenities and location.

Internet Speeds

Internet connectivity in Medan is relatively reliable, with average download speeds ranging from 10 to 30 Mbps. Internet service providers offer various packages, with monthly costs starting from £15 to £30 for a basic plan.

Safety Notes

While Medan is generally considered safe for residents and visitors, it is advisable to take standard precautionary measures such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night, securing personal belongings in crowded places, and being aware of your surroundings.

Neighbourhood Comparison

- The city centre offers convenience and accessibility to amenities but tends to be busier and noisier. - Polonia provides a quieter residential environment with good connectivity to the airport and major roads. - Medan Perjuangan offers a vibrant lifestyle with shopping and dining options within walking distance.

Monthly Budget Breakdown

- Rent: £150 - £300 - Coworking Space: £50 - £100 - SIM/Data Plan: £5 - £10 - Food: £200 - £300 - Transport: £20 - £30 - Gym Membership: £20 - £40 - Internet: £15 - £30 - Miscellaneous: £50 - £100

Conclusion

Living in Medan, Indonesia, offers a blend of affordability and cultural richness. By understanding the cost of living in different neighbourhoods, budgeting for essentials like food, transport, and communication, and exploring recreational options, residents can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle in this dynamic city. Whether you are a digital nomad, expatriate, or local resident, being informed about the cost of living in Medan is essential for a successful and enjoyable stay.