Planning to move to Penang (George Town)? Here is a complete breakdown of the cost of living for expats in Penang (George Town), 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 | Penang (George Town) | Malaysia Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR Rent (Centre) | €312 | €340 | -8% below avg |
| Total Single (Centre) | €667 | €708 | -6% below avg |
| Total Family (Centre) | €1,354 | €1,444 | -6% below avg |
| Groceries | €167 | €177 | -6% below avg |
| Transport | €40 | €42 | -6% below avg |
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to live in Penang (George Town) in 2026?
A single expat living in central Penang (George Town) should budget approximately €667 per month, covering rent, groceries, transport, utilities, healthcare, and entertainment. A family of four needs around €1,354/month.
How much is rent in Penang (George Town) for expats?
A 1-bedroom apartment in Penang (George Town) city centre costs around €312/month. Outside the centre, expect to pay approximately €208/month. A 3-bedroom apartment in the centre is around €686/month.
Is Penang (George Town) expensive compared to other cities in Malaysia?
Penang (George Town) has a cost index of 75% 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.