Accommodation in Malaysia: Rent, Best Cities, and Cost of Living Breakdown (2025)

In 2025, the average rent in Kuala Lumpur for students falls between MYR 1,000–2,500 (₹18,000–₹45,000) a month. Accommodation in Malaysia plays a major role in your monthly expenses, your daily commute, and how quickly you settle into university or work life.

Student housing options in Malaysia range from university hostels to furnished studio apartments near top campuses. For working professionals and expats, cities like Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Johor Bahru offer a variety of affordable rentals, from compact units to spacious family apartments.

In this guide, you’ll find:

• Average rent in Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Johor Bahru for students, professionals, and families
• Student accommodation options in Malaysia: university hostels, studio apartments, shared flats
• How to find cheap accommodation in Malaysia as a student or expat
• Key rental rules for foreigners renting an apartment in Malaysia

If you are serious about managing the cost of living in Malaysia for international students or working expats, checking out the housing market early will save time, money, and stress.

Before you plan where to stay, check out these important resources:
– Bachelor’s Programs Abroad and Master’s Programs Abroad to discover courses you can apply for.
– Find more options and advice through our Student Accommodation Guide.

Average Monthly Rent in Malaysia (2025)

Group	Average Rent
Students	MYR 1,000–2,500 (₹18,000–₹45,000)
Working Professionals	MYR 1,800–3,200 (₹32,000–₹58,000)
Families	MYR 2,800–5,000 (₹50,000–₹91,000)

Malaysia’s average monthly rent climbed to RM1,995 in 2Q 2024, reflecting strong growth both compared to 1Q 2024 and the same period last year, according to the IQI Malaysia Home Rental Index.

Student Accommodation in Malaysia: Options, Rent, and Popular Cities

Student life in Malaysia begins with picking the right place to stay. Accommodation in Malaysia for students offers flexible choices across on-campus dormitories, private apartments, and co-living spaces. Rent, location, and amenities can shape your budget and how comfortable your daily routine feels.

Top Student Accommodation Options in Malaysia

Housing Type	Key Features	Who It Suits Best
University Hostels	Affordable, close to campus, basic amenities	First-year students, those preferring structure
Private Apartments	Independent living, fully furnished options	Senior students, privacy seekers
Co-living Spaces	Shared apartments, flexible leases, furnished units	Exchange students, newcomers who want community

Student accommodation options in Malaysia easily fit different budgets and lifestyles — you just need to plan early.

Key Student Hubs for Accommodation in Malaysia

• Kuala Lumpur: Top universities, modern apartments, strong transport links.
• Penang: Affordable rent, relaxed coastal vibe, good campus proximity.
• Johor Bahru: New campuses, lower living costs compared to KL, easy Singapore access.

These are among the best cities to live in Malaysia for students, especially for international students balancing quality education and affordable living.

Typical Rent Trends for Students The average rent in Kuala Lumpur for students 2025 ranges between MYR 1,000–2,500 (₹18,000–₹45,000) per month depending on the type of housing you pick. Monthly rent in Penang and Johor Bahru usually falls slightly lower, giving more room for savings.

University Dormitories vs Private Rentals in Malaysia

Factor	University Dormitories	Private Rentals
Cost	Lower, subsidized by universities	Higher, but offers more privacy
Facilities	Basic furnishings, common kitchens	Full apartments, often fully furnished
Freedom	Curfews and university rules	More flexibility, fewer restrictions

Many students begin with hostels and later shift to private apartments for better independence.

Where to Search for Student Rentals in Malaysia

• University housing portals (best for on-campus options)
• iBilik (great for room rentals in shared flats)
• Speedhome (student-friendly app for private rentals)
• HostelHunting.com (purpose-built student housing)

Early Booking Tips for International Students International students should start their housing search 4–6 months before arrival. Good properties near universities fill up fast, especially in cities like Kuala Lumpur and Penang. Always ask for virtual tours and clarify what’s included in the rent (Wi-Fi, utilities, furnishings) before signing.

Malaysia is attracting more international students every year. Here are the top Reasons to Study in Malaysia.

Looking for scholarships? Check out Malaysian International Scholarships to reduce your study and living costs.

Accommodation in Malaysia for Expats and Professionals: Best Areas and Rental Trends

Relocating to Malaysia for work? Accommodation in Malaysia for expats and working professionals comes in many shapes—condominiums, serviced apartments, and larger landed homes. 

Top Housing Choices for Working Professionals in Malaysia

Housing Type	Features	Best For
Condominiums	Gated, gym, pools, often furnished	Mid-level to senior professionals
Serviced Apartments	Fully furnished, cleaning, utilities included	Short-term corporate stays
Landed Houses	Detached or semi-D homes, outdoor space	Families, long-term expats

Accommodation in Malaysia for expats often starts with condominiums in city hubs like Kuala Lumpur or Penang for easy commute access.

Best Cities to Live in Malaysia for Expats

The right city matters when balancing work and living costs. Here's a simple overview:

City	Why Professionals Pick It	Average Monthly Rent (Condo)
Kuala Lumpur	Corporate hubs, best public transport	MYR 2,500–4,500 (₹45,000–₹82,000)
Cyberjaya	Tech parks, peaceful living, modern builds	MYR 2,000–3,500 (₹36,000–₹63,000)
Penang	Relaxed lifestyle, healthcare hubs	MYR 2,200–4,000 (₹40,000–₹72,000)

If you’re looking for affordable cities for students and expats in Malaysia 2025, Cyberjaya and parts of Penang offer great value.

Planning your budget for Kuala Lumpur or Penang? Here's a full guide on the Cost of Living in Malaysia.

Rental Ranges for Working Professionals in Malaysia

Here’s what to expect when you budget for accommodation:

Housing Type	Average Rent (MYR/Month)	Approx. in INR
Condo (City Center)	MYR 2,500–4,500	₹45,000–₹82,000
Serviced Apartment	MYR 3,000–5,500	₹54,000–₹99,000
Landed House (Suburbs)	MYR 2,200–4,000	₹40,000–₹72,000

Renting a studio apartment in Kuala Lumpur is cost-effective if you prefer privacy but want to stay close to offices.

Renting Process for Expats in Malaysia

Renting an apartment in Malaysia as a foreigner is straightforward.

Here’s what you’ll typically need:

Document Required	Why It’s Needed
Passport Copy	Identity verification
Employment Pass/Work Visa	Proof of legal stay
Security Deposit	2 months' rent + 1 month utility
Tenancy Agreement	Contract outlining rental terms

Tip: Always ensure your tenancy agreement mentions furnishing details, included utilities, and maintenance responsibilities.

Transport and Commute Options for Professionals in Malaysia

Public transport is reliable across major cities. Picking the right location reduces commute time drastically.

City	Public Transport Option	Best Advice
Kuala Lumpur	MRT, LRT, Monorail	Pick condos within walking distance of a station
Cyberjaya	Shuttle buses, KLIA Transit	Live near tech parks for easy access
Penang	Buses, ferry	Stay near George Town for work hubs

Working professionals moving to Malaysia often choose homes within 10 minutes' walk of a station to cut daily commuting costs.

Quick Tips Before Renting in Malaysia for Professionals

• Start searching 1–2 months early to grab the best locations
• Check if utilities are included to avoid surprise bills
• Use trusted platforms like PropertyGuru, iProperty, EdgeProp for listings
• Understand the rental rules—bonds, minimum lease periods (usually 1 year)

If you're new to the country, understanding housing rules for renting in Malaysia can save you from contract misunderstandings.

Many students take up part-time jobs while studying. Learn more about Jobs in Malaysia.

Family Accommodation in Malaysia: Where to Settle and What to Expect

Accommodation in Malaysia for families combines space, convenience, and community living. Families moving to Malaysia often prioritize proximity to international schools, safety, access to malls, and family-friendly amenities across major cities like Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Johor Bahru.

Getting familiar with family housing types and key suburbs helps you plan your move better, whether you're headed to Kuala Lumpur or the suburbs around Johor Bahru.

Types of Family Housing in Malaysia

Here’s what most expat families choose when searching for family-friendly accommodation in Malaysia:

Housing Type	Key Features	Best For
2–3BHK Condos	Gated security, pools, playgrounds	Small to mid-size families
Townhouses	Split-level homes, small private yards	Families with growing kids
Suburban Villas	Standalone homes, bigger gardens, full privacy	Large families, long-term stays

Looking for furnished apartments for rent in Malaysia? Many condos around Kuala Lumpur and Penang already come semi-furnished or fully furnished.

Best Areas for Family Accommodation in Malaysia

City/Area	Why Families Choose It	Average Rent (MYR/month)
Mont Kiara	International schools, safe, expat-friendly	MYR 5,000–8,000 (₹91,000–₹1.45 lakh)
Bangsar	Shopping malls, cafes, healthcare access	MYR 4,500–7,500 (₹81,900–₹1.36 lakh)
Subang Jaya	Lower rent, good schools, public transport	MYR 3,000–5,000 (₹54,500–₹91,000)

Suburbs like Mont Kiara and Bangsar also offer great access to international hospitals and expat-focused supermarkets, which is a big plus for newcomers.

Typical Family Rent Costs Across Major Cities in Malaysia

Here’s a quick overview of average rent for 3-bedroom homes across popular Malaysian cities:

City	Average Rent for 3BHK (Monthly)
Kuala Lumpur	MYR 3,500–5,500 (₹63,500–₹1 lakh)
Penang	MYR 2,500–4,500 (₹45,000–₹82,000)
Johor Bahru	MYR 2,200–4,000 (₹40,000–₹73,000)

Tip: Monthly rent in Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Johor Bahru varies by neighborhood, building amenities, and lease terms.

Access to Schools, Healthcare, and Parks in Malaysia

When picking family accommodation in Malaysia, look beyond just house size:

• Schools: Areas like Mont Kiara, Subang Jaya, and Penang offer top-rated international schools.
• Healthcare: Cities like Kuala Lumpur and Penang have hospitals like Gleneagles and Pantai Hospital close to major expat suburbs.
• Parks and Outdoor Spaces: Desa ParkCity, Subang Ria Park, and Straits Green Penang are great for children and outdoor activities.

What to Watch Out For

Before renting an apartment in Malaysia as a foreigner, double-check:

Factor	Why It Matters
Furnishing	Many listings say "semi-furnished" — check if kitchen appliances, AC, and beds are included.
Lease Terms	Standard leases are 1–2 years. Shorter leases might cost slightly more.
Deposit	Usually two months' rent + half month for utilities. Always get a stamped tenancy agreement.

Finding affordable cities for students to live in Malaysia 2025 like Penang also benefits families who want quieter neighborhoods without Kuala Lumpur prices.

Next Tip:
Always use verified property platforms when searching for housing options in Malaysia.

It’s safer than relying only on Facebook groups or informal listings.

Malaysia’s education system is improving year after year. See where it stands among the Best Education Systems in the World.

Tips for Renting Accommodation in Malaysia: Must-Knows Before Signing a Lease

Renting accommodation in Malaysia is simple once you know the system. Most rentals require a standard lease, deposit payments, and clear agreements. However, some private listings skip formalities, so caution is important. 

Quick Rental Tips for Malaysia

Do’s	Why It Matters
Sign a proper tenancy agreement	Protects your security deposit and sets clear rules
Confirm what utilities are included	Some rents include water but not electricity or Wi-Fi
Use trusted property agents or verified apps	Avoid scams, illegal listings, and unclear terms

Don’ts	Smarter Alternatives
Avoid cash-only rentals without receipts	Always pay through a traceable bank transfer
Don’t ignore hidden maintenance charges	Ask about building fees, parking, and aircon servicing
Never skip inspecting the property physically or virtually	Check for appliance condition, security, and real layout

Pro Tip:

Always ask if the listed rent is negotiable, especially for longer leases or private apartments in Malaysia.

Still choosing your study destination? See why Malaysia ranks among the Best Countries to Study Abroad for Indian Students.

Planning smart about your expenses? Here’s a list of Cheapest Countries to Study for Indian Students.

If you're unsure which country fits your goals best, check out this guide on How to Choose Where to Study Abroad.

How upGrad Abroad Helps Students and Expats Planning to Move to Malaysia

At upGrad Abroad, we simplify your relocation journey from the first step.

Here’s what we offer:

• University and Course Shortlisting: Find study programs that match your goals, interests, and budget without the confusion.
• Visa and Accommodation Guidance: Understand how to find safe, affordable accommodation in Malaysia for students and working expats.
• Scholarship Updates: Get information about grants, scholarships, and tuition waivers.
• Verified Housing Resources: Explore trusted rental options through partners we work with, so you avoid scams or bad deals.
• 1:1 Personalized Support: Talk directly with an advisor about everything from cost of living in Malaysia to planning your first few weeks after landing.

When you have the right advice early, your move feels a lot smoother.

Picking the right place to live is just as important as choosing your university. Book a free counseling session today to get expert advice on studying and living in Malaysia.

Also, explore free short courses to strengthen your application while you prepare.

Is Accommodation in Malaysia Affordable for Students and Expats?

Pros

• Affordable rents compared to Singapore, Australia, and the USA.
• Good infrastructure with strong transport links across major cities.
• Friendly expat communities in hubs like Kuala Lumpur and Penang.

Cons

• Electricity bills rise sharply due to heavy AC usage in tropical weather.
• Traffic congestion in Kuala Lumpur and Johor Bahru during peak hours.

Verdict:
Accommodation in Malaysia works for almost every budget if you plan smartly. Choosing the right suburb, checking utilities included, and starting your rental search early helps you balance cost, lifestyle, and commute.