The Ultimate Guide to Expat Living in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia 

Kuala Lumpur, the bustling capital of Malaysia, offers a unique blend of modernity and tradition. Its towering skyscrapers stand side by side with colonial buildings, peaceful parks, and ancient temples.  

For expats, the major city of Kuala Lumpur offers more than a diverse culture. It also has a high standard of living at a low cost compared to Western countries. It has excellent infrastructure, world-class healthcare, and international schools, so it’s a well-rounded option for families or solo expat life.   

Expats also feel supported and well-paid in Kuala Lumpur. This is why we ranked it as one of the best places for expats to stay in Malaysia. 

This is also why it consistently ranks well in satisfaction surveys. Kuala Lumpur ranked 8th out of 49 destinations in the 2023 Expat City Ranking.

It scored well for personal finance and banking options, general living costs, and social life factors – all very important when your goal is to go where you are treated best. 

Is Kuala Lumpur a Good Choice for Expats? 

Malaysia is a diverse country split into two parts: Peninsular Malaysia on the continent of Asia and East Malaysia on the island of Borneo. The two (very different) regions are 400 miles apart and separated by the South China Sea.

The main part of the country is a slim stretch of land connected to Southeast Asia. It is flanked by beautiful coastlines from top to bottom, offering hundreds of stunning beaches and islands.

Outside of urban areas, the Malaysian countryside is cultivated with crops such as rice, tea, oil palm and rubber farms.

The interior of both regions is mountainous and covered in rainforest, so there’s a wide range of biodiversity here.

With a relatively low cost of living compared to Western cities, expats can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle in Kuala Lumpur while exploring the rich culinary scene and natural landscapes.

However, Malaysia’s proximity to the equator brings a warm, tropical climate with year-round temperatures averaging 25°C, which, along with navigating local customs, could present challenges.

Assessing these factors is essential to determine if Kuala Lumpur aligns with your lifestyle preferences and goals.

Some other pros and cons to consider include:

Pros

• Cultural Diversity: Kuala Lumpur is a truly multicultural city, with numerous cultural events throughout the year celebrating the city’s unique heritage.
• Affordable Lifestyle: The cost of living in Kuala Lumpur is generally lower than in many Western cities.
• Culinary Delights: From hawker stalls to upscale dining, the city offers an extensive array of food options, reflecting the diverse cultural influences that make Kuala Lumpur so unique.

Cons

• Tropical Climate: Kuala Lumpur experiences a hot and humid climate year-round. If you’ve never lived in a humid climate like this, you might find it challenging to get used to (although air-con helps a lot).
• Traffic: Commuting can be time-consuming due to heavy traffic, and public transportation, though available, is often very crowded.
• Cultural Adjustments: Understanding and adapting to local customs and traditions can take time, especially for those who are new to Southeast Asian cultures.

Malaysian Culture 

It’s important to understand that life exists beyond the capital city of Kuala Lumpur. Malaysia is known for its multicultural population, stunning scenery, varied cuisine and a blend of Malay, Chinese and Indian cultures.  

Malaysia’s rich cultural heritage includes many different ethnic groups. The biggest group consists of Malays, who originally came from Southeast Asia. There are also many ethnic groups from China, India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and other countries. This is one of the reasons why the food is so good.  

As a predominantly Muslim country, most Malays (63.5%) practice Islam, while other groups follow Hinduism, Buddhism, Christianity, or other religions. 

Malaysians speak multiple languages, including Bahasa Malaysia (known as Malay), Chinese, Tamil and English. In Kuala Lumpur, most of the locals can speak English.  

The country’s path to independence saw it become free of British colonial rule in 1957. Malaysia, as we know it today, was formed in 1963 with the inclusion of Sabah and Sarawak.  

Its strategic location in Southeast Asia, coupled with a business-friendly environment, has attracted large-scale foreign investment.  

The country has invested in infrastructure, education, and technology, making it a regional hub for high-tech industries.  

Keen to explore the opportunities in Malaysia? Get started with our action plan service. 

Kuala Lumpur – City Guide 

With a population of 8.8 million in its metropolitan area, Kuala Lumpur is Malaysia’s thriving heart. Within this modern capital city, you will find towering skyscrapers, busy highways, shopping centres, many friendly locals and a great expat community.

The greater area of Kuala Lumpur is, in fact, a coveted global destination for business and investment, with around 380,000 employed in the finance industry.  

A Vibrant and Diverse City

Kuala Lumpur City Center boasts the Petronas Twin Towers, an architectural marvel symbolising Malaysia’s modernity. However, those are just two of the capital’s 1,900 high-rise buildings.  

A city of contrasts, Kuala Lumpur is also home to many popular street markets. Kuala Lumpur’s diversity includes large Chinese and Indian communities. Both have left their mark in terms of culture, religion, and cuisine.  

Petaling Street in Chinatown, Central Market, and Chow Kit Market are busy places where tourists and locals buy clothes, crafts, electronics, produce, and street food. 

Jalan Masjid Market serves the Indian community with traditional products and local Malay and Indian snacks.  

Where to Go in Kuala Lumpur 

Kuala Lumpur is divided into six zones. Each zone brings out the vast contrast that this city has to offer even more.  

1. Kuala Lumpur City Center (KLCC) 

KLCC, or KL City Center, as the locals like to call it, is at the heart of the city, where the iconic Petronas Twin Towers stand tall. This zone is a bustling hub of business, shopping, and entertainment, but it also has some amazing parks, restaurants, views and a lot of fun.  

You can go shopping at the Suria KLCC mall or hang out at a rooftop bar; whatever your choice, you will enjoy it in KLCC style. 

2. Bangsar and Mid Valley 

Known for its vibrant nightlife and dining scene, Bangsar is where the city’s trendy crowds gather.  

Just a stone’s throw away, Mid Valley Megamall offers extensive retail therapy options or some delicious Western food. It’s the perfect blend of relaxation and excitement, making it a favourite among expats. 

3. Mont Kiara 

A residential haven for expats, Mont Kiara is dotted with upscale condominiums and international schools. A very popular high-end area known as Desa Park City holds some of the best real estate in the city.

With its array of chic cafes, restaurants, and a friendly community vibe, Mont Kiara is a top choice for families. 

4. Bukit Bintang 

Bukit Bintang, known as a shopping and entertainment district, is often referred to as the Times Square of Kuala Lumpur.  

Bukit Bintang is a shopper’s paradise, with plenty of options like Pavilion KL to bustling street markets. After a long day of shopping, you can recharge with some of the best street food in town. 

5. Chinatown (Petaling Street) 

Rich in history and cultural diversity, Chinatown offers a glimpse into Kuala Lumpur’s past. Wander through its vibrant streets filled with markets, temples, and traditional eateries. It’s a sensory overload of sights, sounds, and flavours that you won’t want to miss. 

6. Brickfields (Little India) 

A cultural melting pot, Brickfields is the heart of Kuala Lumpur’s Indian community.  

You can explore colourful shops here, enjoy authentic Indian cuisine, and visit beautiful temples.  

Food in Kuala Lumpur 

Like other Southeast Asian countries, Malay cuisine uses lots of spices and coconut milk. However, in Malaysia, the Chinese influence is evident in dishes like dim sum, while Indian cuisine introduced curries, biryani, and rotis.  

The country’s Peranakan-style food, with dishes like laksa noodle soup, nasi lemak, and rendang curry, fuses these influences. Exotic fruits like durian (banned in Thailand for its odour) are a unique taste of Malaysia for the more adventurous. 

How Affordable is it to Live in Kuala Lumpur as an Expat?

Malaysia is among the best countries in the world for expats seeking the highest quality of life for the lowest amount of money.  

As a rough guide, it is safe to say that an expat living in Kuala Lumpur will need anywhere from $1,300 to $3,000 a month. Of course, that depends entirely on the lifestyle you choose. Some people gravitate towards a more frugal lifestyle. Others spend more money on luxury goods and experiences. 

What do the closest estimates say? It’s estimated that an individual will have monthly costs of around RM2,600 per month, excluding rent. The figure jumps to 9,200 RM (US$1,950) for a family of four.  

Accommodation in Kuala Lumpur 

When looking for accommodation in Kuala Lumpur, one of the main distinctions is between a family-oriented bungalow and an apartment.   

Another distinction is the area. Expats with kids will most likely live in an area like Bangsar, Mont Kiara, or Kota Damansara because of the many nearby international schools and parks.   

Single entrepreneurs could live in areas like KL Central, where they can rent affordable and stylish condos and use the vast array of public transport  

Or, to save money, expats could stay in Cyberjaya or Petaling Jaya, where modern condos and houses meet local prices. 

The Cost of Accommodation in Kuala Lumpur

On average, a small studio apartment in a popular expat area like Kuala Lumpur City Center or Mont Kiara will cost between 1,500 Malaysian ringgit (RM) and RM2,000 ringgit (US$425) per month.  

A one-bedroom apartment in the same area costs between RM5,100 and RM57,000 (US$1,080 – 1,560) per month. 

Here’s a selection of listed rental properties: 

• A modern, fully furnished, one-bedroom apartment in Ampang is available for RM1550 or US$330 per month. 
• A luxury three-bedroom apartment in Cheras is on the market for RM3000 or US$635 per month. 

Typically, larger three-bedroom units in these areas cost between RM5,000 and RM7,000 (US$1,000 – 1,600) ringgit per month.  

Those who prefer to live in a house or bungalow can expect to pay between RM6000 (US$1,270) and RM12000 (US$2,540) in one of the expat-friendly areas.  

The prices listed are for the higher-end properties geared toward expats. However, you can find pretty decent accommodation for as little as RM900 per month for a studio and RM1500 for a three-bedroom apartment. 

Other expenses come in the form of electricity, high-speed internet and mobile data. Depending on the property size, you could expect to pay about RM250 or US$50 a month.  

The Cost of Malaysian Food as an Expat 

In Malaysia, you can enjoy delicious local cuisine at affordable prices. A satisfying meal typically costs around US$4 per person at inexpensive restaurants. A must-try is their famous Naan and Tandoori or Biryani houses; here, you can find a mix of Asian flavours at every restaurant.  

For even less expensive (and sometimes yummier) grub, you can try one of the many open-air food stalls. Here, you will find things like Murtabak (a Roti filled with chicken and fried inside an omelette served with curry sauce).  

For those with Western tastes, a fast-food meal at McDonald’s will cost around RM20, about US$4. Stepping up a level, a good three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant will typically cost about RM120 (US$27).  

Non-Muslims are permitted to buy and consume alcohol in Malaysia. And while food at restaurants is well priced, alcohol can be pricier. A pint of local beer is around US$5, and in a typical bar, you’ll pay RM30 or US$8 for a cocktail.  

Local produce from one of Kuala Lumpur’s many markets costs little. And while you’ll probably eat out a lot, expect to pay around RM200 or US$50 per week per person on groceries. Imported goods cost more but are much more affordable than in Thailand or Vietnam.  

The Cost of Healthcare in Kuala Lumpur

Healthcare in Malaysia is generally of a high standard.

Through its universal system, the government subsidises healthcare for all legal residents. You can expect to pay around US$20 to see a doctor, and seeing a specialist will cost more. 

While most expats will probably be able to pay their medical expenses out of pocket, it makes sense to get private health insurance: for those with more severe conditions, it could help them to cover significant costs.  

Fortunately, getting healthcare in Kuala Lumpur is also easy and very affordable compared to the high rates they charge in the West.  

Many expats based in Kuala Lumpur have private health insurance paid for by their job. 

Schooling in Kuala Lumpur 

If you send your children to school, there are excellent options in Kuala Lumpur.

Typically, they offer an international-style education geared more towards expats who want their children to follow a curriculum similar to that of their home country.  

Where to go in Kuala Lumpur as an Expat 

Kuala Lumpur is a vast and wonderful city to explore. A few of its stand-out places include: 

Bukit Bintang 

You really can’t avoid the Bukit Bintang area because, a bit like the Khao San Road in Bangkok, all roads lead there.

It’s a tourist area with bars, nightclubs and plenty of entertainment of various kinds.  

Whether for a night out, a shopping trip or a casual stroll, Bukit Bintang is the city’s heartbeat: there, you can find Jalan Alor Street, where you can take in some of the most amazing urban art you may ever encounter. 

Perdana Botanic Gardens 

For outdoor pursuits of all kinds, Perdana Botanic Gardens is a 70-hectare recreational park situated in central Kuala Lumpur. With its beautiful landscaping, tropical plants, and colonial-style architecture, it’s easy to get lost in this peaceful park.  

You could visit one of the many cafes in the area for some strong coffee or pack a picnic basket and enjoy a slow day in these gardens. 

Eco Park 

Kuala Lumpur forest eco-park is a rainforest in the middle of the city, next to the 421-metre-tall Kuala Lumpur Tower. The stunning canopy walk is a great place to escape the busy city.  

Batu Caves 

Another must-see is Batu Caves, 13 kilometres from the city.

Here, a maze of temples and Hindu shrines nestle among limestone caves, all protected by a huge golden statue of Murugan, the Hindu god of war.

You need to climb the 272 steps to reach the cave temple, but it’s well worth it. Remember to dress appropriately, as this is a place of worship.  

Masjid Jamek 

Masjid Jamek is one of the most famous mosques in Kuala Lumpur.

This sizeable ornate structure is open to the public outside of prayer times. Entrance is free to what is a fine example of Islamic architecture.

One of its highlights is an evening fountain display set against the backdrop of two converging rivers.  

Thean Hou Temple 

Adorned by thousands of orange hanging lanterns, the magnificent Thean Hou Temple is a Buddhist temple dedicated to the Chinese goddess Mazu.  

Known as the temple of the goddess of heaven, it’s one of the most photogenic spots in Kuala Lumpur.  

Petronas Towers 

No exploration of Kuala Lumpur would be complete without mention of the Petronas twin towers.  

Standing at 451.9 metres tall, the towers are an amazing sight to behold – at the top, you can enjoy one of the best panoramic views of the city and the wider region.  

With the world’s highest sky bridge between the two towers on the 41 floor, an observation deck on the 86th-floor observation and a bar on the 33rd, you could easily spend a full day there.  

How to Get Residence in Malaysia 

The Malaysian government has a couple of programs aimed at attracting foreigners who wish to relocate.  

S-MM2H Visa 

One of them, the Sarawak My Second Home (S-MM2H), is specific to the East Malaysia area on the island of Borneo.   

Qualification is broken down into three categories based on age.  

To qualify for the S-MM2H scheme, if you are older than 50, you must: 

• Receive an income of over RM 7,000 (approximately USD 1,570) a month from a salary, pension or rental income (RM10,000 for a couple). 
• Place a fixed deposit in a local bank of RM 150,000 (approximately USD 34,000) for a single applicant or RM 300,000 (approximately USD 68,000) for a couple. 

Those aged between 40 and 49 must have children enrolled in a Sarawak school and own property valued at RM600,000 (approximately USD 135,000). 

The same criteria applies to those between 30 and 39 with the exception that they don’t need to purchase real estate.  

The S-MM2H visa is valid for ten years and requires you to reside in Sarawak for a minimum of 30 days a year. 

MM2H 

The other option, the Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) program, is for the Peninsular of Malaysia.   

This type of visa is an excellent option for those seeking a residence with minimal presence or for those who want a warm and well-developed place to live with a similar quality of life to Singapore or Hong Kong.

It will also suit those seeking a residence without investing in a company or real estate. 

If that’s what you are looking for, but you are getting headaches trying to figure out the best move, get in touch. We help people go where they are treated best with bespoke plans to help them reside overseas, pay less tax, get multiple passports, and live a better life. 

To qualify for the MM2H, you must: 

• Be at least 35 years old 
• Demonstrate assets of RM1.5 million (approx. US$300,000) 
• Have a monthly income equivalent to RM40,000 (US$8500) 

The MM2H scheme offers a ten-year renewable, multiple-entry visa. 

Premium Visa Program 

Another option is their Premium Visa Program. This visa option has fewer requirements and is open to many people.  

To qualify for PVIP, applicants must: 

• Earn an offshore income of RM 40,000 per month or RM 480,000 annually. 
• Open a fixed deposit account of RM 1,000,000 with a licensed bank in Malaysia. Fifty per cent of the amount can be withdrawn after a year to purchase property, health and education expenses. 
• Pay the RM200,000 participation fee for the main applicant and the RM100,000 participation fee for each dependent. 

Digital Nomad Visa 

The digital nomad visa for Malaysia is a newer option. The Malaysian government launched the Digital Nomad Visa on October 1, 2022, as part of the De Rantau Program. 

With it, you have the flexibility to experience Malaysia’s vibrant culture and lifestyle without long-term commitments. You could use it to try out the country first while you look for the ideal place to stay.  

To get the Malaysia Digital Nomad Visa, you: 

• Must be over 18 years old. 
• Should be a digital freelancer, independent contractor, or remote worker. Professions include digital marketing, digital content creation, software development, UX/UI design, cybersecurity, blockchain, AI, machine learning, and other digital-related fields. 
• Must demonstrate an annual income of at least USD 24,000 (about RM 100,000).  
• Must have written evidence of your remote work, such as contracts or proof of employment. 

Taxes in Malaysia 

In theory, Malaysia has a territorial tax system, meaning expats pay no taxes on their worldwide income or assets.

But, there have been recent changes to how this is applied.

After removing a blanket exemption on foreign income, the tax authorities deemed that chargeable income remitted to Malaysia is subject to standard progressive tax rates unless specific conditions are met.

In response to criticism, the government granted an extended exemption on qualifying foreign income already subject to tax elsewhere until 31 December 2026. 

If your home country does not impose tax, or the amount is below the taxable threshold, you pay no taxes on it in Malaysia.  

However, the country does tax any funds you bring in on a remittance basis. Chargeable income remitted to Malaysia after 30 June 2022 is now subject to standard progressive tax rates of 0% and 30%. 

It can seem confusing, but you’ll still pay very little tax if you structure your affairs properly in Malaysia. Learn how to pay zero or low taxes in Malaysia here. 

Or reach out and let us help you plan a way to get to less taxes.  

Expat Living in Kuala Lumpur: FAQs

Living The Dream in Kuala Lumpur 

Kuala Lumpur is a thriving expat hub for good reason: foreigners can enjoy modern infrastructure, job opportunities, and affordable housing. 

It is a peaceful and stable country and, above all, is immigration and tax-friendly.   

It’s an excellent second residence option to use now or have as a backup option. In terms of residence, the deal is straightforward: you get a visa if you can put six figures in the bank.   

But making a move will require planning to ensure you go where you’re treated best.  

That’s where Nomad Capitalist comes in.  

Nomad Capitalist is a turnkey solution for offshore tax planning, dual citizenship, asset protection, and global diversification. We have helped 1,500+ high-net-worth individuals and can help you, too.  

Find out how here.