Planning to move to Johor Bahru? Here is a complete breakdown of the cost of living for expats in Johor Bahru, Malaysia as of 2026. All figures are in EUR for easy cross-country comparison.
Monthly Cost Snapshot
Full Cost Breakdown
Compared to Country Average
| Category | Johor Bahru | Malaysia Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR Rent (Centre) | €250 | €340 | -26% below avg |
| Total Single (Centre) | €583 | €708 | -18% below avg |
| Total Family (Centre) | €1,208 | €1,444 | -16% below avg |
| Groceries | €146 | €177 | -18% below avg |
| Transport | €35 | €42 | -17% below avg |
Get Your Malaysia Emigration Report
Personalised visa pathways, cost estimates, and action plan for Malaysia.
Get Full Report — €10Find your best visa pathway
Take our free 2-minute quiz and get matched with programmes that fit your profile.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to live in Johor Bahru in 2026?
A single expat living in central Johor Bahru should budget approximately €583 per month, covering rent, groceries, transport, utilities, healthcare, and entertainment. A family of four needs around €1,208/month.
How much is rent in Johor Bahru for expats?
A 1-bedroom apartment in Johor Bahru city centre costs around €250/month. Outside the centre, expect to pay approximately €167/month. A 3-bedroom apartment in the centre is around €550/month.
Is Johor Bahru expensive compared to other cities in Malaysia?
Johor Bahru has a cost index of 65% relative to the capital. There are 3 cities tracked in Malaysia for comparison.
Related: Malaysia Guide · Malaysia Salaries · Malaysia Cost of Living · Visa Comparison · Compare Malaysia · All Countries
Data sourced from numbeo. Last verified 2026-03-10.