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Johor Bahru, Malaysia

Johor Bahru sits at the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula just north of Singapore, connected by rail and road and sharing a dependent economy. Foreigners enjoy low Malaysian costs and rich Singapore diversions amid a flurry of new investment and development.

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Johor Bahru: The Best of Both Worlds

From its location at the southernmost tip of the Malay Peninsula, Johor Bahru is little more than a stone’s throw north to Singapore.

Living in Johor Bahru is a practical way to enjoy all that Singapore has to offer without breaking the bank. Connected by rail and road, the two cities share a dependent economy.

A big increase in data centers is drawing foreign investment here. However, there are still issues with infrastructure.

Soon, a rapid transit system (RTS) will connect northern Singapore to Johor Bahru. According to CNBC, this system is expected to be ready by the end of 2026 and will have the capacity to move 10,000 passengers per hour in both directions.

Reviewed By Lief Simon

Lief Simon is the managing editor of Global Property Advisor, Simon Letter, and Offshore Living Letter. He has purchased more than 45 properties, investing in 23 different countries around the world.

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Foreigners living in Johor Bahru can take advantage of both worlds, enjoying the low Malaysian cost of living and the rich cultural diversions of Singapore, just as Singapore shoppers flock to Johor Bahru to take advantage of and more than half of Johor Bahru’s men and women head to workplaces in Singapore every day, taking advantage of the higher wages.

Younger expats will find that Johor Bahru offers a great deal, as well, especially those who have children.

Good international schools, plenty of playgrounds, and a proliferation of theme parks make family life good here. People living here are among the friendliest in the world, too—another reason to consider Johor Bahru for your new home.

Malaysia has a stable economy and a democratic government. It is considered one of the most foreigner-friendly countries in the world, in fact foreigners are encouraged to move here, and the local people are genuinely friendly and welcoming.

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Cost Of Living In Johor Bahru, Malaysia

Johor Bahru offers a high quality of life and a developed infrastructure. Overall, the cost of living is comparable to that in Kuala Lumpur, meaning it is slightly higher than elsewhere in Malaysia but still very affordable for retirees with a moderate income.

The huge, ecologically friendly Iskandar Malaysia development has attracted a lot of money and attention, which has translated to a corresponding rise in the value of housing and land.

Monthly Budget For A Couple Living In Johor Bahru, Malaysia


Expense	Monthly Cost	Notes
Rent	RM 2,000
Gas	RM 15	Used for cooking.
Electricity	RM 400	Air conditioning used most days and at night.
Water	N/A	Included with electricity.
Telephone	RM 75	Prepaid cellphone, 60-minute overseas call per month plus local calls.
Internet	RM 69	Unlimited access.
Cable TV	RM 125
Groceries	RM 750
Entertainment	RM 600
Total	RM 4,034

Click here for currency conversion at today’s exchange rate.

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Reviewed By Lief Simon

Lief Simon is the managing editor of Global Property Advisor, Simon Letter, and Offshore Living Letter. He has purchased more than 45 properties, investing in 23 different countries around the world.