Malaysia
Cost of Living in Johor Bahru
Monthly expenses, rent & budget analysis — Numbeo 2026 country rankings (cost indices) and OECD 2025 PPP rates
COL+Rent: 15.8Rent: 5.1Groceries: 32.8Restaurant: 17.9
Monthly Budget Estimates
Minimal
$333/mo
Outside-center room, basic groceries, public transit
Typical
$507/mo
City-center 1BR, regular groceries & dining out
Comfortable
$647/mo
Premium apartment, frequent dining, entertainment
Monthly Costs Breakdown
| Category | Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Rent (1BR City Center) | $198 |
| Rent (1BR Outside Center) | $132 |
| Groceries (monthly) | $176 |
| Restaurant Meal | $5 |
| Transit Pass (monthly) | $15 |
| Utilities (monthly) | $43 |
Source: Numbeo 2026 country rankings (cost indices) and OECD 2025 PPP rates · Reviewed April 2026
Can You Afford Johor Bahru?
Compare Johor Bahru with other cities at specific budget levels:
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to live in Johor Bahru?
A minimal monthly budget in Johor Bahru is approximately $333, a typical budget is $507, and a comfortable lifestyle costs around $647 per month.
How much is rent in Johor Bahru?
A 1-bedroom apartment in Johor Bahru city center costs approximately $198/month. Outside the center, expect around $132/month.
Is Johor Bahru expensive compared to New York?
Johor Bahru's COL+Rent Index is 15.8 compared to New York's 100, meaning Johor Bahru is about 84% cheaper than NYC overall.
What is the average grocery cost in Johor Bahru?
Monthly groceries in Johor Bahru cost approximately $176. The city's Groceries Index is 32.8 (NYC = 100).