The Cost of Living in Malang: Everything You Need to Know

Are you considering relocating to Malang? This charming city situated in East Java, Indonesia, offers plenty of opportunities for expats and locals alike. But before you make any decisions, it’s essential to know the cost of living in Malang. In this blog post, we’ll break down the expenses you’ll need to consider as you make the move.

Housing

One of the most significant expenses when moving to Malang is housing. The cost of renting an apartment or a house will depend on several factors, including the location, size, and quality of the property.In the city center, a one-bedroom apartment will cost you around IDR 2,000,000-3,500,000 per month. If you’re looking for a larger apartment or a house outside of the city, prices will typically be lower. For instance, a three-bedroom house outside the city center will cost you around IDR 6,000,000-9,000,000 per month.Utilities are also an expense to consider. A monthly bill for electricity, water, and gas will cost you around IDR 1,200,000 per month, depending on your usage.

Transportation

Getting around Malang is relatively easy, with options ranging from taxis, buses, and motorbikes. Taxis are the most expensive option, with an average cost of IDR 6,000-7,000 per kilometer. Buses are more affordable, with a one-way ticket costing around IDR 3,000.If you’re looking to buy a car, you can expect to pay around IDR 200,000,000 for a new vehicle. Keep in mind that the cost of gasoline in Indonesia is relatively cheap, with a liter costing around IDR 7,000.

Food and Drink

Food and drink costs in Malang are relatively low compared to other cities in Indonesia. A meal at an inexpensive restaurant will cost you around IDR 35,000, while a three-course meal for two people at a mid-range restaurant will cost you around IDR 200,000.If you prefer to cook at home, groceries are affordable, with a liter of milk costing around IDR 18,000, a kilogram of rice costing around IDR 10,000, and a dozen eggs costing around IDR 20,000.As for drinking, a domestic beer will cost you around IDR 30,000-35,000 at a bar or restaurant. Imported beer will be more expensive, costing around IDR 50,000-60,000.

Healthcare

Residents in Malang have access to several healthcare options, from private hospitals to government-run clinics. The cost of healthcare in Malang is relatively affordable compared to western countries.A consultation with a general practitioner will cost you around IDR 150,000, while a visit to a private hospital will cost you around IDR 750,000-1,500,000 per day, depending on the level of care needed.

Entertainment

There are plenty of entertainment options available in Malang, from cultural festivals to outdoor activities. Going to the movies will cost you around IDR 50,000, while admission to a nightclub will cost you around IDR 100,000-150,000.If you’re looking for outdoor activities, a day trip to one of the beaches outside of Malang will cost you around IDR 150,000 for transportation, food, and drink.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the cost of living in Malang is relatively affordable compared to other cities in Indonesia. The cost of housing, transportation, food and drink, healthcare, and entertainment are all relatively reasonable, making Malang an enticing option for expats and locals alike.However, keep in mind that these costs will vary depending on your lifestyle and specific circumstances. It’s essential to do your research and plan accordingly before making any decisions about relocating to Malang.

The Insider’s Guide to Living in Malang, Indonesia

Malang is a charming city located in the East Java province of Indonesia. It is well-known for its lively atmosphere, friendly locals, and stunning natural beauty. With a population of over 820,000 people, Malang offers visitors a perfect blend of old-world charm and modernity. In this insider’s guide, we will give a detailed overview of the cost of living in Malang, as well as our top recommendations for local attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions.

Cost of Living in Malang

Malang is a very affordable city to visit or live in, making it an ideal destination for budget travelers. Accommodation in the city center is relatively inexpensive. You can find budget-friendly guesthouses and homestays, starting from as low as IDR 70,000 ($4.80) per night. For mid-range accommodation, you can expect to pay around IDR 400,000 ($27) per night at a hotel.

Food in Malang is also quite affordable, and it is known for its local delicacies such as Bakso Malang, Nasi Krawu, and Rawon Setan. For a full meal at a basic eatery, you can expect to pay around IDR 30,000 ($2.00), while a mid-range restaurant will cost around IDR 150,000 ($10). Transportation in Malang is also very affordable, with local buses and angkot (minibusses) costing around IDR 2,000-5,000 ($0.14 – $0.34) for a ride.

Local Attractions

Malang has many local attractions that offer a glimpse into its rich history and culture. Here are some of the top places to visit:

– Mount Bromo: Located about 70 kilometers from Malang, Mount Bromo is a popular tourist destination with majestic views of the sunrise over the volcano. The entrance fee to the national park is IDR 220,000 ($15), and it is open from 04:00 am to 10:00 am.

– Jatim Park 2: This theme park is perfect for families with children. It features a variety of indoor and outdoor rides, dinosaur exhibits, and a bird park. The entrance fee is IDR 55,000 ($3.80) per person, with additional fees for certain attractions.

– Taman Krida Budaya Jawa Timur: This cultural center features exhibits on the history of East Java, traditional music and dance performances, and workshops on traditional handicrafts. The entrance fee is IDR 5,000 ($0.34) per person.

Dining Spots

If you are a foodie, you will be in heaven in Malang. Here are some of the best dining spots in the city:

– Depot Gang Kelinci: This restaurant is known for its delicious Nasi Campur and other local dishes that are healthy, affordable, and authentic. Visitors can enjoy a meal here for less than IDR 20,000 ($1.38).

– Warung Makan Liwet Mbah Paiman: This eatery is famous for its Nasi Liwet and other traditional Indonesian dishes. You can enjoy a full meal here for around IDR 30,000 ($2.00).

– Cafe Tiga Tjeret: This cafe offers Western-style cuisine with a twist of Indonesian flavors. It is known for its coffee and desserts, and visitors can enjoy a meal for around IDR 100,000 ($7).

Cultural Experiences

Malang is known for its rich cultural history and offers visitors a chance to experience it in many ways. Here are some of the cultural experiences you should not miss:

– Angklung Udjo: This traditional music and dance performance is a must-see. It features bamboo instruments known as angklung and dancers in traditional costumes. The performance is held every Sunday afternoon at the Tugu Hotel Malang.

– Safari Park Prigen: This zoo is located about 30 kilometers from Malang and features over 2,000 animals from 160 species. Visitors can enjoy a tour of the park, which takes around 2-3 hours, for around IDR 150,000 ($10).

– Batu Night Spectacular: This amusement park offers a variety of rides, games, and exhibits. It is open from 3:00 pm to 11:00 pm, and visitors can enjoy a night of fun for around IDR 100,000 ($7).

Local History

Malang has a rich history dating back to the ninth century, and there are many historical sites to visit in the city. Here are some of the must-visit sites:

– Singosari Temple: This Hindu temple was built in 1300 and is an excellent example of East Javanese architecture. Visitors can enjoy a tour of the temple and its surrounding gardens for around IDR 25,000 ($1.70).

– Batu Secret Zoo: This animal park is located near the Singosari temple complex and features a variety of animal exhibits, including a white tiger exhibit. The entrance fee is IDR 100,000 ($7) per person.

– Perjuangan 45 Museum: This museum is dedicated to the period of Indonesian history during which the country fought for independence from the Dutch colonial rule. The museum is free to visit.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you want to explore some of the lesser-known attractions of Malang, here are some off-the-beaten-path suggestions:

– Malang Flower Market: This market is located in the center of the city and features a variety of fresh flowers, food, and traditional Javanese handicrafts. Visitors can enjoy a stroll through the market and soak in the colorful atmosphere.

– Coban Rais Waterfall: This hidden gem is located about an hour’s drive from Malang and features a stunning waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. Visitors can enjoy a hike through the jungle to reach the waterfall.

– Araya Blue Bike Tour: This bike tour company offers a unique way to explore the city on two wheels. Visitors can choose from a variety of routes that will take them through historic neighborhoods, local markets, and scenic landscapes.

In conclusion, Malang is a city that offers visitors a rich cultural experience, stunning natural beauty, and affordable living expenses. From its amazing local cuisine to its historical sites and off-the-beaten-path suggestions, Malang has something for everyone.